This building has been on my photography wish list for a while. After seeing several images posted by other photographers, I did some research to find out what it was and where it was located. When I discovered it was the main city library in Stuttgart, I immediately starting planning the two-hour drive to visit.

Not only is it an incredible place, but the staff exhibit generosity toward photographers that is rare. On their website, you can request a photographer pass for a specific date in advance of your visit. Upon arrival, you sign in and they give you a camera sticker that you place on your shirt. This identifies you as a registered guest and allows you two hours to use tripods and other camera equipment that otherwise would not be permitted. They ask you to be considerate, respecting the space and privacy of other visitors during your stay.

The ability to use a tripod here was crucial. While I have improved my ability to capture architecture handheld, there is no substitute for being able to patiently align and frame rectilinear spaces. The system worked beautifully, as the security guards allowed me to maneuver up & down floors and in & out of corners trying various viewpoints while being mindful of other people. This image is one of many favorites. I hope to share several more from this experience in future articles.

I wish more locations would employ a similar photography policy, rather than banning tripods outright (or even cameras altogether). There were two other photographers in the library that morning and everyone was respectful to each other, the staff and the visitors. Stuttgart is deservedly proud of its library and I am grateful they allow photographers the freedom to capture and share its incredible design.