Saint Matthews Cathedral Photo Safari

The Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle, dedicated over a century ago, stands as one of the most exquisite church interiors of modern times. Its stunning mosaics and soaring architecture, inspired by the renowned churches of Ravenna, Italy, offer a remarkable subject for photography. This exclusive photo safari provides rare access to the Cathedral even when it is closed to the public, allowing participants to capture the grandeur of the Latin cross-shaped interior, the soaring arches, and the vibrant stained glass windows. Under the guidance of professional architectural photographer E. David Luria, you will learn techniques to photograph the Cathedral without flash, manage low-light conditions, and compose images that showcase both the intricate details and the overall architectural beauty. For Nikon camera users, Mr. Luria will provide specialized lenses to enhance your shots, and the safari fee includes a donation to the Cathedral. A sturdy tripod is required to take full advantage of this indoor photography opportunity.

During the safari, participants will explore the Cathedral’s impressive interior, including its grand nave, intricate mosaics, and delicate stained glass, while receiving expert instruction on composition, exposure, and lens use. This experience is designed for photographers of all skill levels who wish to capture professional-quality images of one of Washington, DC’s architectural treasures. The meeting point is at the Conference Center entrance, located just down the parking garage driveway to the right of the Cathedral. Free parking is available on-site, and participants should bring weather-appropriate clothing for walking between exterior and interior areas. This safari offers a rare opportunity to photograph a landmark of national significance with guidance from a seasoned professional.