Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum's Gothic-Renaissance facade is one of Amsterdam's most photographed buildings, and for good reason. The ornate red-brick exterior, symmetrical towers, and arched passageway give you strong compositional options from multiple angles. The tunnel passageway running through the building is a standout shot, with its tiled ceilings and archways framing cyclists and pedestrians as they pass through. For the classic front reflection shot, walk to the long rectangular pool on the south side, where the facade mirrors cleanly in calm water, especially in the soft light of early morning before crowds arrive. A wide-angle lens works well for the full facade, while a standard zoom lets you isolate the decorative stonework. Overcast days reduce harsh shadows on the intricate details, making them ideal for architectural work. Shoot from low near the water's edge to maximize the reflection and give the composition a sense of symmetry. (Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands)
