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Field Trip: Library of Congress

December 13 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

Library of Congress

For our December field trip, we will explore one of the most iconic and photogenic interiors in Washington, DC—the Library of Congress. The Jefferson Building is a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture, filled with soaring ceilings, marble staircases, mosaics, and murals. In December, the Library is beautifully adorned with holiday decorations, including a grand Christmas tree in the Great Hall. The seasonal touches add warmth and color to the already stunning architecture, offering unique opportunities to capture both the historic grandeur and the holiday spirit. This trip is perfect for those who enjoy photographing symmetry, patterns, and festive details in a historic setting.

When:
Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm.
We will meet at the Library of Congress Jefferson Building entrance 10 minutes before opening time (9:50 a.m.), so that we can enter together. The entrance is on First St SE between Independence and East Capitol.

Admission is free. However, timed-entry passes are required and must be reserved in advance through the Library of Congress website. Details can be found here: https://www.loc.gov/visit/

Where:
Library of Congress – Jefferson Building
10 First Street SE
Washington, DC 20540

Two-hour metered street parking is available in DC on Saturdays. If using Metro, the closest station is Capitol South Station (orange/silver/blue line) on First Street SE. The First and C Street entrance is approximately one and a half blocks south of the Library of Congress on First Street SE.

We’ll begin photographing the awe-inspiring spaces in the Great Hall, including the holiday tree, and move through the building to take advantage of the many photo opportunities.

Equipment and Notes:

  • A wide-angle lens (16–35mm) will be useful for capturing the grand spaces and impressive architecture.
  • A normal zoom lens (e.g., 24–105mm, 24-200mm) may be useful for capturing architectural details and murals.
  • Tripods are not permitted inside the library.
  • Be mindful of low-light conditions indoors; a fast lens or higher ISO settings will help.

After our photography session, members are welcome to gather informally at Pete’s Diner for food and conversation. Pete’s is located at: 212 2nd St SE, Washington, DC 20003.

We hope you can join us!

Seton Droppers and Christopher Fedorchak

All photos taken by Christopher Fedorchak