Pioneer Building
Built in 1892 and designed by architect Elmer Fisher in the Richardsonian Romanesque style, this red brick and terra cotta landmark anchors the northeast corner of First Avenue and James Street in Pioneer Square. The building rewards close attention, with richly textured stonework, arched windows, and decorative details that photograph beautifully with a mid-range or macro lens. Position yourself across First Avenue to capture the full facade and its relationship to the cobblestone street below, or move in tight to isolate the ornate terra cotta carvings and ironwork. Overcast days are ideal here since diffused light brings out the warm tones of the brick without harsh shadows cutting across the relief details. Early morning gives you the quietest streets and the best chance of clean foreground shots without crowds or parked vehicles cluttering the frame. A 24-70mm lens covers most compositions well. (Seattle, Washington, United States)
