Durham Cathedral has been photographed countless times, but a new series by County Durham photographer Dan Saunders asks viewers to look beyond the familiar postcard image. His black-and-white photographs focus on the building’s changing light, Norman stonework and dramatic sense of scale.
The work is featured in Durham Magazine in an article published on August 7, 2026. Saunders created the series after reflecting on how easily a landmark can become part of the background for people who live nearby. Although he had visited the cathedral many times, he said photographing it changed the way he appreciated the building.
A different view of a familiar landmark
Rather than concentrating on the cathedral’s most recognisable exterior views, the project pays attention to details visitors may pass without noticing. The photographs explore light moving through the building, the texture of its Norman stonework and the way individual people appear against its vast arches and columns.
Saunders took all the photographs during several visits over the summer of 2026. Each visit produced different conditions. At times the cathedral was quiet, while on other occasions it was busy with visitors. Changes in the weather also altered the light inside, allowing him to find new compositions in places he had photographed before.
That changing atmosphere is central to the series. Saunders photographs almost exclusively in black and white, a choice that removes colour and places the emphasis on light, shadows, shapes and architecture. At Durham Cathedral, the contrast between bright windows and dark stone gives some images a theatrical quality.
Light, movement and the scale of the cathedral
One of Saunders’ favoured images shows a priest’s silhouette moving through a pool of light beneath the arches. The moment was not staged, according to the feature, but came together when the light and movement aligned.
Another image uses a single person to demonstrate the cathedral’s size. Against the building’s monumental interior, the figure appears small, drawing attention to the height and breadth of the arches and columns.
The photographer’s interest is not limited to technique. The project also reflects his experience of living in the area and becoming accustomed to seeing the cathedral. Carrying a camera encouraged him to slow down, look more closely and notice details he believed he had previously walked past many times.
Saunders hopes the series has a similar effect on others, whether they have lived in Durham all their lives or are visiting for the first time. Its central invitation is simple: pause, look closer and see Durham Cathedral in a different light.
More of Saunders’ work is available through his Instagram account, @dsaundersphotos, where he regularly shares black-and-white photography from across the North East and beyond.