2.5 Hour Safari | $99 per Photographer
Explore the striking East Building of the National Gallery of Art on a 2.5-hour photography safari that teaches composition skills in a unique, low-light environment. Led by expert E. David Luria, this workshop blends art, architecture, and technical guidance to elevate your photography.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Accessible to all physical skill levels since the workshop is held indoors and involves walking at a relaxed pace.
Wildlife
History
The East Building was opened in 1978 and designed by famed architect I.M. Pei, notable for its modernist triangular layout, contrasting with the classical West Building.
Conservation
The NGA emphasizes sustainability by maintaining climate-controlled environments that protect artworks while employing energy-efficient lighting throughout the East Building.
Washington Photo Safari
2.5 Hour Safari | $99 per Photographer
Washington Photo Safari is a Bowie, Maryland-based photography outfitter that organizes guided photo workshops and safaris across the Washington, D.C., and Mid-Atlantic region. The company offers hands-on sessions focused on aerial drone photography, smartphone techniques, moonrise and twilight shooting, architectural and botanical subjects, museum interiors, historic railroad equipment, and food photography. Instructors include FAA-certified pilot Travone Sukie for drone workshops, smartphone expert Elody Crimi, Marine Corps spouse Angela McCrary for the Quantico museum tour, award-winning and longtime photographer E. David Luria for multiple moonrise and cathedral safaris, and photographer Mark for the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum event. Trip formats range from closed‑to‑public interior safaris and museum-based workshops to outdoor landmark and garden sessions; listed durations are typically two to three hours. Several experiences emphasize regulatory and safety guidance, such as FAA rules during drone operation, while others provide practical composition, lighting, and editing instruction tailored to camera or smartphone users. Washington Photo Safari presents opportunities for photographers at varying skill levels to practice in controlled, guided environments and to access locations that may not be open to general visitors. Trip descriptions note when sessions include specialized access (for example, interior cathedral photography) and when instruction covers professional transition topics like marketing and income streams for photographers. All trip listings identify the guide and the primary focus so prospective participants can match experience objectives and skill level before booking.
Guides list safety, access details, and equipment recommendations in each trip description. Advance booking is advised for limited-access safaris and timing.
Location
Bowie, Maryland
Based in Bowie, Maryland
Tours Offered
10
Diverse photography workshops and safaris
Typical Length
2–3 hours
Hands-on, small-group sessions
Expert Guides
FAA-certified & award-winning
Guides listed by name in each trip
Choose a workshop, confirm instructor expertise, and reserve a guided session to improve skills or explore new photographic subjects.
Bring a versatile lens
A zoom or prime lens with a wide aperture helps capture scenes in the East Building’s low-light settings.
Respect the gallery rules
Photography is allowed without flash; avoid tripods or monopods to preserve the artwork and experience for all visitors.
Arrive early to settle in
Arrive 10 minutes before the workshop to set up your gear and get comfortable in the space.
Focus on compositional elements
Pay attention to lines, shapes, and symmetry in the building’s architecture to create balanced photos.
DSLR or mirrorless camera
Essential for low-light shooting and manual control over exposure and focus.
Wide-aperture lens (f/2.8 or faster)
Allows for better performance in dim gallery lighting.
Extra batteries and memory cards
Ensures you won’t miss shots due to power or storage limitations.
Comfortable walking shoes
You’ll be on your feet moving through expansive gallery spaces.