Despite living in the Chicago area nearly my entire life, I visited the Baha'i Temple for the first time last week. I have photographed many places of worship throughout the country over the past few years. Some of my favorite images from these places of worship may be viewed by clicking HERE.

Until my visit to the Baha'i House of Worship in Wilmette, Illinois, I was welcome to photograph the interior of every church and temple that I've visited. Upon entering the Baha'i Temple, I was told that photography was permitted in the building--with the exception of the temple! In other words, I was free to take all the pictures I wanted of the "visitors center" and corridor leading to the restrooms! I respect the fact that the temple is private property and that I have no right to photograph the interior. However, this is the first time I've experienced such a policy in a house of worship.

It's very frustrating to be standing at a location with a camera in my hand, but not be allowed to press the shutter.

The woman who greeted me told me that there was no need to be disappointed. In 45 minutes, the gift shop would open and the most beautiful postcards are available for just 49 cents. This wasn't what I hoped to hear after driving for 90 minutes through city traffic to reach the temple. Basically, the Temple is a 3 hour round trip drive from my home in the southwest suburbs of Chicago.

So, I captured a couple of images of the exterior and then drove home.

If it is true that "it's what's on the inside that counts", then I wish I was able to capture photographs of the inside of the Baha'i House of Worship!