Washington Photo Safari offers half-day and full-day photo courses in Washington, D.C. and other cities, providing participants with extensive tips on camera use, composition, lighting, and more. Both beginner and advanced photographers are welcome, and any type of camera, including smartphones, is acceptable.
Capture the essence of iconic landmarks and memorials in this hands-on travel photography course. Master the art of composition, exposure, and camera settings as you explore the diverse landscapes of Washington, D.C. Perfect for photographers of all levels seeking to enhance their skills in capturing stunning cityscapes and portraits.
Next start date:
Friday, Apr 19th, 9:40am–1:10pm Eastern Time
Master the art of manual photography and take control of your camera with this hands-on photography workshop in Washington, DC. Discover the secrets behind capturing crisp portraits, blurred backgrounds, and breathtaking landscapes. Join us at the iconic Smithsonian Castle and Enid Haupt Gardens for an unforgettable photography experience.
Next start date:
Sunday, Apr 21st, 2:30–5pm Eastern Time
Capture the majesty of Washington, DC's iconic monuments as they come to life under the night sky. Join us for a guided photo tour that will teach you essential nighttime photography techniques and help you achieve postcard-quality images of the Nation's Capital. Don't miss this opportunity to create stunning, black-and-white photographs that truly capture the meaning of each memorial and statue.
Next start date:
Saturday, Apr 20th, 7:30–10pm Eastern Time
Capture stunning wildlife photographs at the National Zoo in the morning hours as the animals emerge from their enclosures. Led by pet and wildlife photographer Julie Gould, this hands-on safari will provide tips on composition, lens use, and more. Don't miss the chance to potentially see pandas up close!
Next start date:
Sunday, Apr 21st, 7:45–10am Eastern Time
Capture the beauty of Washington, D.C.'s famous monuments at night with your smartphone. Join this special photo safari and learn how to take stunning nighttime pictures using the latest smartphone technology. Explore the illuminated US Capitol, White House, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and more in this unforgettable photography experience.
Next start date:
Friday, Apr 19th, 7:30–9:30pm Eastern Time
Capture the iconic beauty of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Capitol at twilight, with a rising full supermoon as your backdrop. Join professional photographer E. David Luria on this unique safari to learn the techniques of twilight and moonlight photography. Move the moon to create stunning compositions and bring postcard-worthy shots to life.
Next start date:
Tuesday, Apr 23rd, 7:30–9:30pm Eastern Time
When you travel, you like to come back with images not just of the monuments, historic buildings and landscapes, but also the faces that you see. After all, people are the lifeblood of any country. But how do you DO that, especially with people you do not know? Sticking a camera in a stranger’s face is NOT a great way to make friends! It’s intrusive and inconsiderate! And how do you capture those magic moments of your own family or friends...
Next start date:
Sunday, Apr 28th, 2:30–4:30pm Eastern Time
Discover storytelling through street photography and explore iconic monuments in Washington, DC. Join Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist Essdras Suarez in this immersive workshop that will teach you how to capture compelling images and convey powerful narratives with your camera. Unleash your creativity and see the world in a whole new light with this unique photography experience.
Next start date:
Sunday, May 19th, 9am–12pm Eastern Time
Unleash your smartphone's storytelling potential at the National Museum of American History. Capture powerful images, learn composition techniques, and master low-light photography to truly make an impact with your art. Join us for a safari designed for smartphone users, and discover the stories waiting to be told.
Next start date:
Sunday, May 26th, 1–4pm Eastern Time
Explore the opulence of the Library of Congress' Main Reading Room on a photography excursion in Washington, D.C. Capture stunning architectural shots and discover the secrets of interior photography with our team's expert guidance. Don't miss the chance to photograph the priceless Stradivarius Violin, Viola, and Cello on display in its exhibit rooms.
Next start date:
Thursday, May 16th, 5–7:30pm Eastern Time
Master the art of natural light portraiture and capture stunning portraits in any condition. Join Vickie Gray on a photography adventure in Baltimore's historic Fells Point, where you'll learn how to create compelling and artistic portraits using available light. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your portrait photography skills!
Next start date:
Saturday, May 18th, 4–6pm Eastern Time
Discover the hidden features of your Canon EOS R series mirrorless camera on this immersive photo safari led by a knowledgeable enthusiast. Unleash the full potential of your camera's menu settings and learn how to maximize autofocus, wireless features, and more. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your photography skills and capture stunning images.
Next start date:
Sunday, May 19th, 2–4:30pm Eastern Time
Unlock the hidden wonders of the natural world through macro photography on this extraordinary excursion in Rock Creek Park. Discover the intricate details of spring flowers and emerging insects as you learn how to capture their beauty up close. Join us for an unforgettable journey into the world of macro photography.
Next start date:
Saturday, Jun 1st, 8–10am Eastern Time
Explore the stunning interiors and exteriors of a historic landmark in the nation's capital on this architectural photography adventure. Immerse yourself in the artistry of the Library of Congress and learn expert techniques for capturing its beauty. Limited spots are available for this exclusive experience.
Next start date:
Saturday, Jun 1st, 2:30–4:30pm Eastern Time
Explore sites of cultural significance and natural beauty, while honing your photography skills under expert guidance. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Underground Railroad through a unique lens.
Next start date:
Saturday, Aug 10th, 8:30am–5pm Eastern Time
Capture the charm of Georgetown's colonial-style architecture and waterfront views in this photography safari. Explore the streets, C and O Canal, and Grace Episcopal Church before hopping on a boat to iconic DC landmarks. Perfect for photographers looking to master their camera skills while capturing the beauty of our nation's capital.
Next start date:
Saturday, May 18th, 2:30–5pm Eastern Time
Discover the beauty of the Hillwood Museum and Gardens in Washington, DC, as you learn valuable photography techniques from expert instructors. Capture stunning images of the paths, mansion, greenhouse, statuary, and Japanese Gardens, and even explore low-light shooting without a tripod inside the museum. Join us for an unforgettable photography experience in this elegant and popular destination.
Next start date:
Sunday, Jun 9th, 2:30–4:30pm Eastern Time
Join this course at Washington Photo Safari to discover techniques for photographing dogs and their owners in beautiful settings, and learn how to use lighting, composition, and poses to create meaningful and hilarious portraits. Don't miss this opportunity to capture the unique relationship between dogs and their people through your camera's lens.
Next start date:
Saturday, Jun 15th, 8:30–10:30am Eastern Time
Embark on a vibrant urban adventure, exploring the colorful murals and iconic landmarks of the Shaw Neighborhood in Washington, DC. Led by renowned photographer E. David Luria, capture the essence of this artistic community and discover hidden gems along the way. Unleash your creativity and join us for an unforgettable photography experience in the heart of the city.
Next start date:
Sunday, Jun 16th, 10am–12pm Eastern Time
Discover the hidden beauty of a historic cathedral in the heart of Washington D.C. Join us for an exclusive photography experience inside this magnificent architectural gem, capturing its breathtaking mosaics and stained glass windows. Unleash your creativity and master the art of photographing church interiors without flash.
Next start date:
Sunday, Jun 16th, 2:30–5pm Eastern Time
Washington Photo Safari teaches the techniques of photography by taking visitors and local residents on half-day and full-day photo shoots around key sites of the nation’s capital and other cities, while an accompanying professional photographer offers participants extensive tips in camera use, image composition and design, proper exposure, lighting, and posing “models” for the best effect.
Following our motto "See.Click.Learn.", we show you where the images are in the DC area and how to take them.
Photographers of all skill levels are invited to participate in the Photo Safaris and any camera is acceptable, even smartphone cameras! Principal photography workshops take participants to the major DC sites, including the monuments, memorials, and cathedrals. Beyond these key sites, specialty Safaris are offered on techniques in nature photography, f stops and shutter speeds, indoor/outdoor architectural, food, nighttime photography, pet, macro, abstracts, candid kids, fine arts, proper/creative flash, and indoor and outdoor portraiture. During DC’s beautiful cherry blossom season, photo Safaris are provided at least twice a day around the Tidal Basin.
Reviews of Washington Photo Safari
(4.7-star rating across
7 reviews)
The Exciting World of iPhone Photography
Reviewed by Lysa De T. on 11/26/2021
Great Class for people with some photography background. Tons of information.
White Balance: What Is It? Why Does It Matter?
Reviewed by Diane G. on 7/11/2021
David is very knowledgeable and explains things with clarity and patience.
Monuments at Night
Reviewed by Jan K. on 5/22/2021
Great class. Learned a lot. David was a great instructor and a lot of fun.
Monuments and Memorials: Travel Photography
Reviewed by Katherine L. on 9/1/2019
David was very knowledgeable, an incredible storyteller, and accommodating to our group.
The Exciting World of iPhone Photography
Anonymous review on 3/20/2022
Monuments at Night
Reviewed by Emily C. on 5/23/2021
Monuments and Memorials: Travel Photography
Anonymous review on 9/2/2018
Review Summary by CourseHorse
Students praise the classes at Washington Photo Safari for being informative and helpful, particularly for those with some prior photography knowledge. The instructor, David, is highly praised for his expertise and ability to explain concepts clearly and patiently. Students mention that they learned a lot, indicating that the classes cover a wide range of photography topics. Additionally, David is described as a great instructor who makes the classes enjoyable. The classes are also commended for being accommodating to different groups of students. Overall, students leave the classes with new knowledge and skills in photography.
Quotes:
- "David is very knowledgeable and explains things with clarity and patience."
- "Great class. Learned a lot. David was a great instructor and a lot of fun."
- "David was very knowledgeable, an incredible storyteller, and accommodating to our group."
Be the first to know about new dates and discounts on your favorite classes. Get $10 off your first class!
Save this class to your wishlist.
Forgotten Password?
We can send you an email that contains instructions on how to reset your password.
Request Group Booking Options
Get special date and rate options for your group. Submit the form below and we'll get back to you within 2 business hours with pricing and availability.