We get requests from many photographers, both experienced and novices, who want to understand what it takes to shoot at these churches. We have provided technical explanations already — we have discussed our camera gear , the lenses that we use and our procedures on a shooting trip. We always stress the importance of preparation; to have an idea of what is important in a church; whether or not it will be crowded, the time of day you might be shooting, the time of year, and whether special permission will be required.
It is also important to know something about what is unique or distinctive in the church. It was a good excuse to go back and shoot again later.
This post addresses something different — perhaps it can be considered a primer for photographing in churches, especially in France and the United States. There are three main issues — respect for the church and the parishioners, use of tripods and access. The first issue — respect for the churches and parishioners — is easy to communicate.
Stay quiet and unobtrusive as much as possible. It is best not to photograph the services themselves except from a distance. A tour of Dutch tourists came in during the service. They sat respectfully and listened , but when it was finished, they applauded. The treated it like a performance. You could feel the shock among both the congregation and the monks and nuns. When individuals are praying, they are very sensitive to interruptions clicking of the camera can be very annoying and of being photographed.
Ask before you do so if you must shoot someone. I was taken by the way the light from a window looked like a reverse shadow of her image. When the service was over, I asked if I could take her picture. She gave me a lovely smile for the shot. It is also important to respect the church itself. In most cases, the altars are off-limits. This is almost assured if the church is actively used and consecrated.
