Seattle Public Library-Central Library
Rem Koolhaas's Central Library is one of the most visually dynamic buildings in the Pacific Northwest, a faceted glass and steel structure that rewards photographers willing to explore it from multiple angles. Outside, shoot from street level on Fourth or Fifth Avenue to capture the dramatic diagonal mesh facade against the sky; a wide-angle lens in the 16-24mm range works well for emphasizing the geometric distortion and scale. Overcast days are ideal outdoors since the diffused light reduces harsh glare on the glass. Inside, the red-saturated "Book Spiral" and the vivid yellow escalator tunnels on the fourth floor offer surreal, graphic compositions that look great with a 35mm or 50mm prime. The building opens to the public in the morning, so arriving early gets you the interior before crowds arrive. Parking is limited, but the library sits steps from several bus lines. (Seattle, Washington, United States)
