Composition in the field

The San Xavier Mission, known as the “white dove of the desert,” is the oldest intact European structure in Arizona. A national historic landmark, the mission was founded in 1692. Construction of the current church began in 1783 and was completed in 1797, when southern Arizona was still a part of New Spain.

The mission is constructed of low-fire clay brick, stone, and lime mortar. The structure is roofed with Spanish colonial masonary vaults, and the inside is designed and decorated in a Baroque architectural style. Within the walls you will find dramatic elements such as theatrical curtain displays, marble, and faux doors – all excellent photographic subjects.

Watch as the reflecting sunlight creates dancing shadows on the outside walls of the mission – take advantage of this decisive moment and create an image you will want to look at for years to come.

Shift your camera settings from color to black & white and investigate the varying tones of black, white, and grey that you can achieve.

The San Xavier mission is a truly breathtaking place to take photos. This architectural wonder is surrounded by beautiful Arizona desert landscape making it an ideal place to develop all sorts of photographic skills. Create abstractions when photographing the Mission through its beautiful surrounding gates.

Please Note – if a class must be cancelled due to weather or other circumstances beyond our control we will be happy to work with you to reschedule or provide a refund. However, if you should need to cancel or require a new class date, contact us. A $25 transfer fee will be imposed without a 3 day notice before the scheduled class.

Call at 1 877 372 2231 or a filed agent at 917 597 7053. Lots of people seem to hang up if our welcome recording comes on instead of a live voice, but we promise to return your message within a day or two if you leave one with your name and number. It would be even better if you included your email address as well as the date and city of the class you are considering. If leaving a voice mail message is not your thing, please email us at [email protected] and include the date and city of the class you are considering, as well as your phone number .

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