Capture iconic Washington, DC monuments under the stars with expert smartphone photography guidance on this unique nighttime photo safari led by E. David Luria.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion required; mostly walking on paved surfaces.
Wildlife
History
Washington, DC, designed by Pierre L’Enfant in 1791, offers monumental architecture centered on democracy and history, enhanced by its nighttime lighting schemes.
Conservation
Participants are encouraged to minimize electronic waste and respect public monuments by avoiding flash and following local nighttime regulations to protect the urban environment.
Washington Photo Safari
Capture iconic Washington, DC monuments under the stars with expert smartphone photography guidance on this unique nighttime photo safari led by E. David Luria.
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.
Charge your smartphone fully
Ensure your phone battery is at 100% since long photo sessions and low-light use drain power quickly.
Use a portable tripod or stabilizer
Minimize shake in low light by stabilizing your phone for sharper images.
Dress warmly for evening conditions
DC nights can be chilly, especially around reflective water features; layer accordingly.
Arrive early to get oriented
Familiarize yourself with meetup points and key landmarks before sunset to maximize shooting time.
Smartphone with camera
The essential device for capturing the night scenes and participating in the guided lessons.
Portable phone tripod
Helps stabilize your phone to capture clear, long-exposure shots after dark.
Power bank
Extra power source to keep your device running through the session.
Comfortable walking shoes
The tour involves standing and walking on city streets and sidewalks after dark.