Holiday Light Photography at Mormon Temple with Washington Photo Safari
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking on paved areas
Overview
Capture the dazzling 300,000-light display at Kensington’s Mormon Temple during a two-hour night photo safari led by expert E. David Luria. Learn long exposure and night shooting techniques while creating stunning holiday images.
Adventure Tips
Bring a sturdy tripod
A tripod is essential for stabilizing your camera during long exposures in low light.
Use cable release or timer
Minimize vibration by triggering your shutter with a cable release or the camera’s self-timer.
Charge extra batteries
Cold weather and long shooting sessions drain batteries quickly; bring spares fully charged.
Dress warmly for winter nights
Wear layered, weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable during the outdoor shoot.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern gray squirrels active in temple grounds
- Occasional local songbirds roosting in nearby trees
History
The Mormon Temple in Kensington is an architectural landmark reflective of mid-20th century religious design, contributing to the area's rich cultural fabric.
Conservation
The light display is designed with energy-efficient LEDs and emphasizes minimal environmental impact during the holiday season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy tripod
Critical for steady shots during long exposures in low-light conditions.
winter specific
Wide-angle lens (around 28mm equivalent)
Ideal for framing architectural elements and expansive light displays.
Telephoto lens (100mm+)
Useful for capturing distant details and isolating light features.
Extra camera batteries
Cold weather reduces battery life; spares ensure a full session.
winter specific