Architectural Photo Safari at Saint Matthews Cathedral
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Basic mobility required; suitable for most fitness levels since it is indoor photography without strenuous activity.
Overview
Capture the breathtaking gothic architecture of Saint Matthews Cathedral in Bowie, Maryland, on an exclusive, guided photo safari with expert photographer E. David Luria. Unlock hidden photo angles closed to the public.
Saint Matthews Cathedral Photo Safari
2 Hour Safari | $109 per Photographer
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience an exclusive photo safari inside the stunning Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle, renowned for its breathtaking interior and rich history. Guided by expert photographer E. David Luria, learn to capture its architectural beauty and stained glass windows in a unique setting, closed to the public.
...One of the most beautiful church interiors of modern times
Rates
Photographer: $ 109
Duration
2 hours
About
Dedicated in 1913, the Cathedral of Saint Matthew the Apostle (which honors the patron saint of civil servants) plays a major role in the Catholic life of the nation’s capital. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Washington, Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass here in 1979, and President John F. Kennedy’s funeral was celebrated here on November 25, 1963.
Designed by New York architect C. Grant La Farge, the Cathedral has been cited as having “one of the most beautiful church interiors of modern times.” Its walls are laden with shimmering mosaics suggestive of those found on in the renowned churches of Ravenna, Italy.
With special permission from the Cathedral staff, we are pleased to offer an EXCLUSIVE photo Safari that takes you inside the spectacular St. Matthew’s Cathedral, even while it is closed to the public! Learn how to photograph church interiors without flash, capturing the architectural beauty of a Cathedral laid out in the form of a 155’ x 136’ Latin cross, with the interior rising 190’, and how to photograph its stained glass windows.
This Safari is taught by architectural photographer E. David Luria, who will make his 28mm F3.5 shift lens and his 10mm fisheye lens available to Nikon camera users.
A sturdy tripod is essential for this Safari as we will be shooting indoors in lower light.
Fee includes $10 donation to the Cathedral.
Photo Credit: Gary Stiles.
What to Bring
- Camera
- Lenses
- Extra memory cards
- Extra charged battery
- Accessories such as filters, remote release
- Weather appropriate clothing
Where to Meet
Meet on the front steps of Saint Matthews Cathedral, 1725 Rhode Island Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20036.
Since the church is closed to the public, meet at the Conference Center entrance - down the parking garage driveway to the right of the Cathedral.
Your Instructor
Architectural photographer E. David Luria is founder and director of the Washington Photo Safari, which has provided over 6,700 photo safaris for 46,000 amateur photographers – an average of 5 people every day, 365 days a year, since it was founded in 1999.
“You taught me several important points and helped me better understand not only photography but also my own camera. I've taken photo classes at the Smithsonian, Glen Echo, and the Washington School of Photography. You've been the best among all the teachers I've had.“ David Lassiter, Olney, MD
Trained in Paris by a protégé of Henri Cartier-Bresson, Mr. Luria is a member of the American Society of Media Photographers and the Society of Photographic Educators and has had his images of DC appear in over 100 publications, calendars, and postcards and on 30 magazine covers.
Adventure Tips
Respect Low-Light Conditions
Use a tripod and remote shutter to maximize sharpness and minimize camera shake in the dim cathedral interior.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Though indoor, expect some walking and standing on stone floors; sturdy shoes help maintain comfort for long shooting sessions.
Mind the Sacred Space
Maintain quiet and respectful behavior during the tour as this is an active place of worship with sensitive artworks.
Charge Equipment Fully
Bring fully charged batteries and ample storage cards, since the opportunity for shots is limited and lighting conditions can drain battery life.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Local birds outside the cathedral grounds
- Squirrels in adjacent green spaces
History
Saint Matthews Cathedral has served Bowie since its construction in the early 20th century, reflecting gothic revival architecture and local religious heritage.
Conservation
Tours emphasize minimal disturbance and encourage respect to preserve the stained glass and woodwork for future generations.
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Adventure Hotspots in Washington, D.C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
DSLR or Mirrorless Camera
High-quality sensor needed to capture detailed architecture and stained glass colors in low light.
Tripod
Stabilizes camera for long exposures inside the dim cathedral interior.
Remote Shutter Release
Prevents camera shake during slow shutter photography.
Wide-Angle Lens
Captures comprehensive interior views and expansive architectural features.