Location · North Miami Beach
The Spanish Monastery: medieval stone in the middle of Miami
Arches built in Spain more than eight centuries ago, now surrounded by palm trees. This is the place for photos with weight, quiet and an almost sacred feel.
A monastery that crossed an ocean
The Monastery of St. Bernard de Clairvaux was built in Segovia, Spain, in the 12th century. Centuries later it was taken apart stone by stone and rebuilt in North Miami Beach, where it now serves as a church.
Cloisters and arcades
Repeating arches create depth and frame each person naturally, like a stone picture frame.
Stone with history
Worn walls and carved columns add a texture no set design can imitate.
Quiet gardens
Paths, palms and lawns around the church give a green pause between all that stone.
Sessions that suit the Monastery
Quinceañera
For many families, the quinceañera carries a sense of faith. A medieval cloister honors that moment with elegance and respect.
Bridal and engagement
Arches, filtered light and long corridors create romantic portraits with a European feel, without leaving Miami.
Family
A three-generation portrait under the arches becomes the photo that ends up on grandma's wall.
Soft light between stone walls
The cloisters give open shade for much of the day, which is gold under the Miami sun. Because the Monastery is an active church, timing works around its services and ceremonies; we confirm it with you when you book.
- Morning: fresh, even light in the corridors, with less heat on the gown and makeup.
- Mid to late afternoon: lower sun slips sideways through the arches, drawing light and shadow.
- Season: May to October brings humid heat and sudden showers; the cloister shade helps and we build in a weather buffer.
What to wear at the Monastery
The stone is warm and neutral, so almost any color stands out. Since it is a place of worship, elegant, more covered looks feel right.
- Ball gowns in red, burgundy, emerald, royal blue or white.
- Tiaras, crowns and veils look especially striking among the arches.
- For him: a dark suit or formal guayabera; for the family, coordinated earth tones or pastels.
- Comfortable soles for stone floors and lawns; the photo heels travel in the bag.
You arrive ready; we coordinate
Some locations require a reservation, permit or venue fee. We confirm the Monastery's current rules and coordinate it when you book.
- We coordinate the date with the Monastery's office, working around its calendar of services and weddings.
- Any location fee is listed separately, in writing, in your quote.
- Hair and makeup with our team at the studio before you head out.
Pair it with the ocean, the river or the studio
The beach and the mangroves are only minutes from the Monastery. Many families shoot the formal look here and save the second look for the studio or the coast.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need to book ahead for a professional session at the Monastery?
Can my parents and godparents be in the photos?
Can we take photos inside the church?
Is it a good choice on a hot day?
Your photos under eight-century-old arches?
Choose your session in the quote builder, pick the Spanish Monastery as your location, and we'll reply with a clear plan and a written price.