Photography Outings

January Outing

Saturday January 17 – Cathedral of the Incarnation

Location – Cathedral of the Incarnation. 2015 West End Ave, Nashville, TN 37203

Date: Saturday 1/17/2026

Time: 10:00 a.m.

• Parking: Please allow time to find parking. Our parking lot is located directly behind the Cathedral free of charge. There may be available parking across the street, from Terrace Place or in the first level Vanderbilt structure across the alley for a fee.
• Meeting Place: Front Entrance
• Optional Lunch: 11:30 Jasons Deli or Amerigo Italian restaurant.
• Tripods are allowed inside of the Cathedral.
• Photographers are NOT allowed on or in the altar area.  If you wish to photograph close ups of the altar, you may need to bring a long lens.

The Cathedral of the Incarnation is steeped in history and tradition. Acquired by Bishop Thomas Sebastian Byrne in 1902, the cathedral property is near Vanderbilt University. Construction of the main church began in 1910 and was completed four-and-a-half years later. The Cathedral of the Incarnation was dedicated on July 26, 1914, and has since been the central hub for the Catholic Church in Tennessee.

Recently refurbished and lovingly restored to its full architectural and artistic beauty, it provides many photographic options due to its rich Italianate architecture, intricate details, and beautiful lighting offering many compelling subjects. Its design, modeled after Roman basilicas, provides artistic and architectural features that make for interesting photos.

Architectural & Artistic Features

Roman Basilica Style: The architecture is modeled after the Basilica San Martino ai Monti in Rome, providing a unique, historic aesthetic.
Intricate Interior: The interior features an intricate and unique coffered ceiling, bas relief sculptures, murals, and beautiful marble elements, all offering excellent opportunities for detail shots.
Stained Glass Windows: The stained glass windows allow for beautiful, natural light to filter in, creating a warm glow and unique lighting effects, especially during sunny days or sunset.
Ornate Details: The cathedral is full of ornate details, gold accents at the altar, and large pillars, which contribute to a magnificent and rich visual environment.
Exterior & Garden: The yellow brick exterior has stone accents and an historic bell tower. There is also a peaceful, secluded garden area behind the church that offers a mix of structured architecture and natural greenery for outdoor shots.

Other places of interest

Centennial Park and the Parthenon – 2500 West End Avenue. Nashville, TN 37203
The Park is free to roam around, however, there is a fee to enter the Parthenon museum.
Admission can only be purchased on-site at the Ticket Counter or in the Museum Store.

• Adults: $15.00
• Seniors (62+): $10.00

Items listed below are not permitted inside the Parthenon.

• Water bottles
• Empty containers, food, and drinks
• Large bags, backpacks, luggage— please leave at home
• Drones

A limited number of small free storage cubbies are available. Small lockers cost one quarter ($0.25) to lock. Lockers will not fit backpacks nor luggage.

The Parthenon features an art collection inside a historical landmark within Centennial Park. It is a legacy of the Tennessee Centennial Exposition

To attend any BPG outing, please complete the Hold Harmless Agreement (HHA)