The Chelsea Courtyard
This quiet courtyard tucked inside the Chelsea Apartments building offers a rare slice of Edwardian-era architecture in Seattle's Queen Anne neighborhood. The U-shaped brick facade frames a central courtyard that rewards wide-angle compositions, with symmetrical lines, arched doorways, and ornate detailing giving you plenty to work with. Shooting from the center of the courtyard and angling upward lets you capture the full height of the building while emphasizing the geometric symmetry. Overcast days are ideal here since diffused light eliminates harsh shadows and brings out the warmth of the aged brick; midday sun can be too contrasty in the enclosed space. A 24-35mm lens works well for capturing the full courtyard in a single frame, while a longer focal length lets you isolate the architectural details. The courtyard is accessible from the street, so be respectful of residents when visiting. (Seattle, Washington, United States)
