Church Architectural Photography

[antnee]

In college, I went to absolute beautiful Catholic church. It is very ornate with detail everywhere. At times, I would just get lost looking at all of the fascinating artwork throughout. Later, I got married there. Eventually, I moved away and only get back occasionally.

Anyways, they church really moved me with its beauty. On our 10th anniversary, we went to that church for mass. Afterwards, we stayed behind and tallked to the priests. He gave us a quick tour of recent renovations. On the way home, I felt an overwhelming call to photograph beautiful churches.

I am really looking for a way to make this a form of stewardship. I am not really sure how to shape this. I would like to visit several local churches in the Diocese. Take some pictures, get some history and stories. Would this be fundraiser? Selling a "coffee table" book and donating the profits? Or is this organizing a group of amateur photographers in the parish with "photowalkiing" events?

Itching to do something...not sure what!

I would love to hear some ideas.

Antnee

[Smob]

Welcome aboard! Hope you find a home here.

I, like you, am very moved by the wonders of architecture. God has given us some wonderfully creative abilities. You seem to have a very special feeling for this and God can use your enthusiasm to reach others. I like your idea of a "photowalk". It can give you a way to personally witness to others. Not everyone who has an appreciation for great architecture has that same appreciation for the greatness of God. By you enthusiastic guidance, you may show Him to them.

I would like to recommend a book - "The Creators: A History of Heroes of the Imagination" by Daniel Boorstin. Even though the author did not intend it, It has filled me with the wonder of God's creative spirit in us.

[antnee]

Thanks for the response. I actually have that book...all 800 pages. I haven't read it yet. I can't remember how or why I got it. Is there a certain section that you recommend?

[Smob]

Yea, it's a big book. It covers all different types of creativity - writing, theater, painting, sculpture, music, architecture, etc. Maybe you could start with Prologue, Part II: A Creator God and
Book One, Part III - The Power of Stone. It's about 100 pages.

I think a coffee table book is a brilliant idea, antnee. It would be interesting to tie church architecture into culture -- how they might have (and still do) influence each other....

[ABHin]

I am studying in worship, and especially in tradition elements of worship~
Arts and architecture are part of my researches too.
I am very interested to talk more