Adventure brief
Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple Photo Safari
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.
Kensington, Maryland, transforms into a luminous holiday stage each December, drawing photographers and enthusiasts alike to the Mormon Temple's Festival of Lights. This two-hour photo safari led by Washington Photo Safari's founder, E. David Luria, offers a rare opportunity to master night photography amid a festive display of 300,000 lights draped over trees, bushes, reindeer figures, and intricate Biblical scenes—some featuring live models.
The Mormon Temple itself glows in soft white illumination, providing an architectural anchor that elevates every frame. As one of the Washington, DC area’s most distinctive seasonal spectacles, this event draws on the region’s blend of cultural and religious heritage, setting the stage for a compelling visual narrative. E.
David Luria brings decades of professional experience to the safari, teaching participants how to harness ambient lighting and compose shots without flash. His instruction covers essential techniques such as tripod use, long exposures, and optimal white balance in night conditions—skills that elevate amateur shots to postcard-quality imagery. The safari’s carefully curated route moves guests through the most photogenic arrangements, ensuring every click captures the mood and magic of the season.
What makes Washington Photo Safari a standout is its consistent dedication to educational photography tours year-round, with this holiday edition standing as a festive highlight. Participants not only gain technical skills but also deepen their appreciation for the subtle interplay of light and architecture unique to this historic temple environment. Whether you’re a local or visiting the greater DC area, this distinctive photo experience offers an engaging way to connect with local culture through the lens of your camera.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring a sturdy tripodessential
A tripod is essential for stabilizing your camera during long exposures in low light.
- 02Use cable release or timerinfo
Minimize vibration by triggering your shutter with a cable release or the camera’s self-timer.
- 03Charge extra batteriesessential
Cold weather and long shooting sessions drain batteries quickly; bring spares fully charged.
- 04Dress warmly for winter nightsessential
Wear layered, weather-appropriate clothing to stay comfortable during the outdoor shoot.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Sturdy tripod
Critical for steady shots during long exposures in low-light conditions.
winterEssentialWide-angle lens (around 28mm equivalent)
Ideal for framing architectural elements and expansive light displays.
EssentialTelephoto lens (100mm+)
Useful for capturing distant details and isolating light features.
Extra camera batteries
Cold weather reduces battery life; spares ensure a full session.
winterEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Nearby historic district of Kensington for daytime photography, Local gardens along Connecticut Avenue showcasing native winter plants
Local fauna
Eastern gray squirrels active in temple grounds, Occasional local songbirds roosting in nearby trees
Historic heritage
The Mormon Temple in Kensington is an architectural landmark reflective of mid-20th century religious design, contributing to the area's rich cultural fabric.
Mindful exploration
The light display is designed with energy-efficient LEDs and emphasizes minimal environmental impact during the holiday season.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Front façade of the Mormon Temple for architectural symmetry, Light-draped trees and bushes surrounding the temple grounds, Close-ups of illuminated reindeer and Biblical scene displays
- Subjects
- Architectural lighting, Decorative holiday lights, Festive live models
- Best times
- Blue hour, Nighttime after sunset, Early evening to avoid crowds
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Do I need to be an experienced photographer to join?
No, the safari is designed for all skill levels with instruction on night shooting techniques provided.
What kind of camera gear should I bring?
Bring a camera capable of manual settings, a sturdy tripod, wide-angle and optionally telephoto lenses, and extra batteries.
Is the photo safari suitable for kids?
While the safari is friendly and accessible, younger children might find the low light conditions and photography focus challenging.
What happens if it rains or snows?
Washington Photo Safari operates rain or shine, with alternative interior locations offered during inclement weather.
Where is the meeting point for the safari?
The exact meeting location is arranged upon booking, typically near the Mormon Temple in Kensington, MD.
Can I use a smartphone camera for this photo safari?
While possible, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual controls is recommended to capture the best night photos.