Church Photo 101

I have taken thousands of church-related photos that tell stories of radical hospitality, prayerful presence, and the magnetic joy of the church in action. Photographs are not just pictures; they are profound storytellers and emotional messengers. Nowhere is this more impactful than in the sacred spaces of our churches. Through photography, we can capture the spirit of the community, the sanctity of worship, and the vibrant life of faith of our church.

Good photographs can evoke feelings of awe and reverence–they are a bridge, connecting those within the church community and reaching out to those who might be looking for a spiritual home. Offering examples of solace, celebrating joyous occasions, and fostering a sense of belonging is especially important in a world where digital presence can enhance or even substitute for physical presence.  

I am excited to announce this year’s Church Photography 101 workshop, scheduled for September 13th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Resurrection Episcopal Church in Ocean Beach. Whether you are a photographer keen on using your cellphone more effectively or an experienced photographer looking to refine your skills, this workshop is designed for you.

Led by the talented Diocesan Photographer Susan Forsburg and EDSD Director of Communications Chris Tumilty, this workshop explores the art of capturing beauty and joy in church life. These expert instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for both photography and the church community.

Simeon Bruce, Director of Communications at St. Andrew’s in Encinitas, who participated in 2024, said, “I cannot stop telling people how good this workshop was, seriously. And I’m already using what I learned to improve my work at St. Andrew’s. This workshop truly took me from ‘Yeah, I have a vague idea of what looks good in a photo’ to ‘Oh, now I get WHY it looks good and have an idea of how I might try to achieve that.’

Participants learn essential photography principles such as the exposure triangle—understanding how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO work together to create the perfect shot. Combined with tips and tricks for improving composition through positioning, the rules of thirds, leading lines, and more, this workshop distills years of experience into a one-day training.

Photo 101 is designed to be hands-on. It’s not just about listening and learning; it’s about doing. Participants will have the opportunity to take their own photographs during the event, which will then be reviewed in a supportive group setting. 

An important aspect of church photography that will be covered during the workshop is the appropriate use of photos. Understanding what images are suitable for sharing and how they can be used respectfully and effectively to communicate the life and work of Jesus Christ at your church is crucial. Photos are a powerful tool, but they must be used wisely, especially in a context as intimate as a church environment.

The ultimate goal of good church photography is to share the story of your church through images effectively–showcasing the life and work of Jesus Christ as lived out by our communities in vibrant color (…or in black and white). Photographs can highlight worship services, community activities, outreach efforts, and the everyday moments that make up the life of our church. By sharing these images, we invite others into our community, offering them a glimpse of the fellowship and divine love that define our congregations.

Join us at the Church Photography 101 workshop to learn how you can contribute to this essential ministry and help share the powerful story of faith, hope, and love that your church embodies. Register for Church Photo 101 here.