Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine Wedding Photography Guide
A photographer's guide to America's oldest Catholic parish
About Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
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The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine holds the distinction of being the first Catholic parish established in America, dating back to 1565. The current building, constructed between 1793-1797 with later restorations, stands as a testament to centuries of faith and history.
With its Spanish Colonial and Renaissance Revival architecture, stunning interior murals, and beautiful stained glass, the cathedral provides one of the most meaningful and visually striking ceremony settings in Florida. The soaring ceilings and sacred atmosphere create images with a sense of significance that few venues can match.
As a ceremony-only venue, couples typically pair the Cathedral Basilica with downtown St. Augustine reception venues like Flagler College, The Treasury, Casa Monica, or Villa Blanca—all within easy distance.
Why We Love Photographing at the Cathedral Basilica
There's a weight and significance to photographing weddings at the Cathedral Basilica that's hard to describe. This is where American Catholicism began, and couples who choose to marry here are becoming part of that centuries-long story.
Photographically, the interior is stunning. The warm wood tones, the beautiful murals depicting St. Augustine's history, the filtered light through stained glass—every angle offers something beautiful. The scale of the space creates a sense of grandeur that makes the ceremony feel momentous.
The location in the heart of historic downtown is another advantage. The Plaza de la Constitucion across the street provides beautiful outdoor portrait space, and the walk between locations offers wonderful candid moments against St. Augustine's charming architecture.
Best Photo Locations at the Cathedral Basilica
The cathedral and its surroundings offer exceptional photography opportunities:
The Grand Interior
The soaring nave with its beautiful murals, ornate altar, and stained glass windows creates a breathtaking backdrop for the ceremony. The warm wood tones and sacred atmosphere make every moment feel significant.
The Cathedral Doors
The iconic entrance doors are perfect for dramatic exit shots. The couple emerging into the light after being pronounced married is always a powerful moment. The historic facade frames the couple beautifully.
The Side Aisles
The side aisles with their arched ceilings and beautiful lighting offer quieter spots for detail shots and candid moments during the ceremony.
The Plaza de la Constitucion
The historic plaza just across the street provides a beautiful outdoor space for post-ceremony portraits. The cathedral serves as a stunning backdrop with the old oaks framing the scene.
Cathedral Place Street
The charming street in front of the cathedral, with its historic architecture and intimate scale, creates wonderful walking shots as the couple moves between locations.
Weddings at Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
Real wedding moments we've captured.
View Recent Weddings
Planning Your Timeline at Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
We don't publish generic sample timelines because they're useless without knowing your wedding date. Here's why:
A 5pm ceremony works beautifully in summer but means portraits in the dark in winter. Your timeline needs to be built around your actual date and what matters most to you.
Light at Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
The cathedral interior is illuminated by stunning stained glass windows. Late afternoon light creates dramatic color patterns inside.
Time for Photos
We recommend 30-45 minutes for portraits at Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine, covering the interior nave, altar area, and exterior plaza.
Want more variety? Nearby options:
- Plaza de la Constitución — 1 minute walk, add 10 minutes
- Treasury on the Plaza — 1 minute walk, add 10-15 minutes
Timeline Strategies
Sunset Portraits
Want that golden hour magic? We work backwards from sunset. Ceremony ends 60-90 minutes before, giving time for family photos, couple portraits, and catching the best light.
Brunch or Daytime
Morning ceremonies and daytime receptions mean lots of beautiful natural light all day. Great for summer when afternoons can get pretty warm.
Winter & Nights of Lights
The cathedral and surrounding plaza are centerpieces of Nights of Lights.
Venue Timing Notes
- Music curfew at N/A
- Religious venue—ceremony restrictions apply
- Photography during mass is limited
Get a Timeline Built for Your Day
Tell us your wedding date, ceremony time preferences, and what moments matter most. We'll send you a custom timeline that accounts for sunset, this venue's best light, and your priorities.
Request Your Custom TimelinePhotography Tips for the Cathedral Basilica
Based on our experience photographing ceremonies here:
No Bride's Room
The cathedral does not have facilities for getting ready. Plan to arrive dressed for the ceremony. Many couples use nearby venues like Markland House, Casa Monica, or a downtown Airbnb for preparations.
Respect the Sacred Space
The Cathedral Basilica is an active parish with specific guidelines for photography. We position ourselves to capture every moment while respecting the sanctity of the service. No flash during the ceremony.
Use the Plaza
Don't skip the Plaza de la Constitucion across the street. The historic oaks and plaza setting with the cathedral in the background create stunning portrait opportunities that are uniquely St. Augustine.
Catholic Ceremony Length
Full Catholic wedding Masses typically run 45-60 minutes. Build this into your timeline, especially for receptions at venues with specific start times.
Coordinate with the Parish
Contact the church office well in advance. At least one spouse should be Catholic, and there are preparation requirements. The parish staff is helpful in coordinating logistics.
Church Details & Contact
Address
38 Cathedral Place, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Capacity
Up to 500 guests
Style
Spanish Colonial, Renaissance Revival, Sacred
Website
Ceremony Fee
$1,000 (Cathedral) / $700 (Our Lady's Chapel)
Deposit
$250 non-refundable to reserve
Phone
(904) 824-2806
Note: The Cathedral Basilica requires at least one spouse to be Catholic. Contact the parish office for marriage preparation requirements, available dates, and specific guidelines. They're very helpful and experienced in coordinating wedding ceremonies.
Real Weddings at Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine
Browse galleries from weddings we've photographed at this beautiful venue
