The Rose Main Reading Room at New York Public Library

I took this photo in the main branch of The New York Public Library inside The Rose Main Reading Room. The library is located on 5th Avenue and East 41st Street in Midtown. Upon entering the museum from East 41st Street, The Rose Main Reading Room will be straight ahead. I stood on the southend for my image. By Subway: - Closest station: 5 Avenue - Bryant Park (7 Train) - Turn right on West 42nd St - Turn right on 5th Ave - The library will be on your right Address: New York Public Library, 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018

The library is inside and unaffected by the weather, so you can photograph this location year round.

The library has a lot of windows and the harsh daytime lighting can cause unwanted contrast and shadows. I suggest going after sunset, so you don't have any of the sunlight coming in. In this image, you want to let the artificial light illuminate the photo.

Be respectful! It's become a landmark for photos, so even though there will be other photographers there, the main purpose of the library is for people to quietly study and read.

Try using a wide-angle lens (24mm) to get the whole room in frame. It will really show off how grand the reading room truly is.

Angle the camera upward to incorporate more of the intricate cloud-design on the ceilings. It's one of the most interesting aspects of the room, so definitely include it!

The library is adjacent to Bryant Park — a 4-acre urban oasis in the middle of the city. Walk around the park and then stop for a coffee at The Stackery @ The Lodge to relax and enjoy the scenery.