Ottawa Normal School
This elegant Gothic Revival building dates to 1874, originally constructed as a teacher's college and now integrated into Ottawa City Hall. Its pointed arched windows, decorative stonework, and symmetrical facade make it a rewarding architectural subject, particularly when you isolate details like the carved stonework or frame the full facade from across the open plaza. A wide-angle lens works well for capturing the entire structure in context, while a short telephoto lets you compress and isolate the ornate window groupings and masonry details. Overcast days are ideal here, as soft diffused light brings out the texture of the stone without harsh shadows. Early morning on weekdays gives you the quietest conditions before foot traffic picks up around the entrance. Position yourself directly across from the main facade to keep the geometry straight, or work the corners for a more dynamic perspective. (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada)
