Red Shutters
This striking canal-side building in the Jordaan district draws the eye immediately with its cascading facade of red shutters, each a slightly different size, creating a rhythmic, textured pattern up the exterior. Position yourself across the narrow canal for a straight-on composition that lets the shutters fill the frame, or move slightly to one side to add depth and catch the reflection in the water below. A short to medium telephoto lens, somewhere in the 50 to 85mm range, works well for isolating the facade without distortion. Overcast days are ideal here since the diffused light brings out the deep red tones without harsh shadows cutting across the shutters. Early morning gives you the added bonus of calm water for cleaner reflections and far fewer tourists and cyclists moving through the frame. Street-level access is straightforward with no restrictions. (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
