DC Wedding Photography Guide: Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle

Why Choose St. Matthew the Apostle for Your Catholic Wedding in DC?

As a Catholic wedding photographer that regularly serves couples in Washington DC, I can tell you that choosing St. Matthew the Apostle for your wedding ceremony is a decision you won’t regret. The cathedral is absolutely gorgeous and inspiring. The pillars, stone, archways and marbling will simply leave you and your wedding guests in awe. If you're looking for the perfect space for your Catholic wedding, look no further than the Cathedral of St Mathew the Apostle.

How To Secure Your Wedding Date At St. Matthew The Apostle

Planning a wedding at St. Matthew the Apostle? My advice is to start early! And that's true of any venue or ceremony space. You’ll need to touch base with the parish staff at least nine months ahead of your preferred date. The cathedral’s clergy will guide you through the essential steps: filling out pre-nuptial questionnaires, engaging in meaningful discussions about your future together, and participating in a pre-marital survey and a Catholic engaged encounter session. These steps are designed to support you in building a strong foundation for your marriage.

To start planning your wedding at St. Matthew's Cathedral, you should first call the rectory at 202-347-3215. You can request to speak with the priest of your choice or the priest on duty who will discuss marriage preparation and explore the possibility of scheduling your ceremony at the Cathedral. Only the clergy at St. Matthew’s have the authority to book your wedding date. They will set a date only after meeting with you and your partner to complete the necessary paperwork to ensure your participation in their marriage preparation program. It's important to secure your date with the Cathedral before locking in any other vendors due to the high demand of this iconic venue.

What Details Should a Photographer Capture During a Catholic Ceremony?

When capturing a Catholic wedding ceremony, especially at a venue as grand as St. Matthew the Apostle, it's crucial to document the blend of liturgy and the vibrant emotions that color these sacred moments. Key details to focus on include:



The Processional and Recessional: Capture the emotional entry and exit of the bridal party and family members.

Exchanging of Vows: Close-up shots of the couple as they exchange vows, a central moment that reflects their commitment.

Ring Ceremony: Detailed shots of the rings being placed on each other's fingers, symbolizing their union.

Sign of Peace: This is a unique aspect of Catholic weddings where guests and family members exchange peace; capturing these interactions is essential. This will come shortly after the Lords Prayer (Our Father, who art in heaven...)

Communion: capturing the couple receiving communion is always a special moment during the Mass.

The Kiss and Exit: The pivotal moment when the couple is pronounced married and shares their first kiss.

The Ambiance and Décor: Capture the architectural beauty of St. Matthew’s.

Challenges Of Photographing In The Cathedral

Photographing a wedding in a cathedral like St. Matthew the Apostle comes with its set of challenges, primarily due to lighting and space constraints. Here’s how you can manage these effectively:

Lighting Issues: Cathedrals often have mixed lighting conditions. Use a camera capable of handling low light and consider lenses with wider apertures. Speak to the Priest to confirm if Flash is allowed or not. (In most cases during the Mass it is not allowed.)

Space Limitations: Cathedrals are spacious but often have restricted areas. Scout the location beforehand to identify the best spots for crucial shots. Using a zoom lens can help capture intimate moments without disrupting the ceremony. In this Cathedral, you can have access to the entire area outside of the Alter and the space in front of the Alter thats defined by a green marble rectangle. This can be accessed during the procession in but not after that.

Where To Take Post-Ceremony Photos At St. Matthew The Apostle?

St. Matthew the Apostle offers stunning backdrops for post-ceremony photography that you’ll want to take full advantage of. Some great spots include:



The Cathedral’s Facade: The grand exterior and steps are perfect for capturing the entire wedding party with the impressive architecture of the cathedral. The sun also sets behind the nearby buildings thankfully allowing for some soft light on your wedding party later in the afternoon.

Inside the Cathedral: Post-ceremony, take detailed shots of the couple inside the cathedral, utilizing its majestic altar and pillars as a stunning backdrop. Great for family photos after the ceremony. Flash is recommended when that deep into the Cathedral.

Nearby Landmarks: If time allows, consider taking the couple to nearby landmarks for additional scenic photos, adding a touch of the broader Washington DC to their wedding album. Dupont Circle and the Mayflower Hotel are all within walking distance from the Cathedral of St Mathew the Apostle.

Which Reception Venues are Ideal for Catholic Weddings in Washington DC?

After a beautiful ceremony at St. Matthew the Apostle, you’ll want a reception venue that complements the elegance of your day. Here are three excellent options in Washington DC that are well-suited for Catholic wedding receptions:

Mayflower Hotel: Just a short walk from St. Matthew’s, the Mayflower Hotel exudes a classic charm that echoes the grandeur of your cathedral wedding. Its luxurious ballrooms and walkways offer a perfect setting for a lavish celebration.

Highpoint 1333: For couples looking for a more modern backdrop for their reception, Highpoint 1333 provides a contemporary space with stunning city views, making it a stylish choice for a memorable evening.

Iron Gate Restaurant: If you prefer a more intimate setting, the Iron Gate Restaurant’s unique blend of historical architecture and romantic outdoor spaces offers a cozy yet elegant atmosphere for your reception.

Each of these venues provides distinct atmospheres and styles, ensuring that whatever your reception vision, it can be beautifully realized near the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle.

Why benson PArk for Your Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle Wedding?

Choosing the right photographer for your wedding at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle means finding someone who understands the sacred atmosphere of your ceremony and the joyful celebration of your reception. Here’s why you should consider my services for your big day:



Experienced with St. Matthew’s: As a practicing Catholic, I am intimately familiar with the Mass as well as the layout, lighting, and the overall environment of St. Matthew the Apostle. This allows me to capture your special moments reverently and perfectly without missing a beat.

Personal Touch: My approach to wedding photography is all about capturing the genuine expressions, the laughter, the tears, and the love. I strive to create a comfortable and enjoyable experience that reflects in every photo.

Commitment to Quality: With top-of-the-line equipment and a keen eye for detail, I ensure that every image is a testament to the beauty and emotion of your wedding day.

If you’re planning your wedding at St. Matthew the Apostle and need a photographer who can do justice to this magnificent setting, reach out below to discuss how we can make your wedding memories last a lifetime. Let's capture every moment of your day with elegance and love.