Is prior photography experience required?

No, the safari caters to both beginners and advanced photographers, with expert guidance throughout.

Can I use a smartphone for this tour?

While possible, a DSLR or mirrorless camera is recommended to best capture the cathedral’s intricate details.

Are tripods allowed inside the cathedral?

Yes, tripods are encouraged to achieve sharp images under low light conditions.

Is this tour open year-round?

Tours are available seasonally; it’s best to check in advance for specific dates and availability.

Can I bring additional lighting equipment?

External flash or lighting is generally discouraged to preserve the cathedral’s ambiance and respect the sacred space.

Is the interior accessible for people with mobility challenges?

The tour area is mostly flat and accessible, but please contact the operator if you have specific mobility concerns.

Architectural Photo Safari at Saint Matthews Cathedral

Bowie, Maryland, offers a rare chance to photograph inside the Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle, a remarkable site known for its stunning interior and storied past. The Saint Matthews Cathedral Photo Safari provides intimate, guided access beyond typical visitor options, allowing photographers to capture detailed shots of intricate gothic architecture, soaring arches, and vibrant stained glass windows in controlled lighting. This opportunity is especially unique since the cathedral is generally closed to the public during these exclusive tours. Led by E. David Luria, an expert photographer with a mastery of architectural subjects, participants receive hands-on guidance to elevate their skills in shooting complex indoor light scenarios and ornate details. The cathedral itself showcases a mix of classic stone masonry, hand-carved fixtures, and historic ecclesiastical artistry, dating back to its establishment and ongoing contributions to the Bowie community. Visitors learn to appreciate and visually interpret the layers of craftsmanship and spiritual atmosphere embedded in this sacred space. What sets this safari apart is the blend of art, history, and photography—a fusion that not only improves your creative eye but also deepens your connection to this local landmark. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic hobbyist, the experience sharpens your technical abilities and offers an uncommon perspective on a prominent Maryland treasure. Bowie’s proximity to Washington D.C. makes the cathedral a convenient destination for a compelling afternoon shoot, offering a fusion of urban accessibility and secluded beauty indoors. Saint Matthews Cathedral Photo Safari stands out by delivering a focused, educational, and visually rich experience unlike other photo tours in the region.

About Washington Photo Safari

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.