You’re engaged (yay!), and may be wondering “what are the best photo locations in Washington, DC for a romantic engagement session?” Washington DC is more than just a home. For couples who live there, it’s a part of who they are! Engagement photos should reflect that, and there are so many beautiful spots around the city to do so. If you’re engaged and looking for the best locations in the city to have your engagement session, here are my top picks! 

1. Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin is one of the most iconic spots in Washington, DC. Located right next to the National Mall, it’s surrounded by some of the most well-known memorials in the city. While the tidal basin is gorgeous year-round, it’s most well-known for being the center of the Cherry Blossom Festival every spring. In late March every year, the park completely transforms into a pink wonderland and attracts people from around the country. It’s an incredibly popular spot for engagement photos, and I understand why. However, if you want some iconic cherry blossom engagement photos, be ready to wake up before dawn! The key to stunning photos during this season is being one of the first people to arrive.

2. DAR Constitution Hall

Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Constitution Hall features beautiful architecture right near the White House. With marble steps, ornate columns, and stunning arched windows, it makes a gorgeous backdrop for a classic engagement session. Of course, it’s also still a functioning wedding and event venue, so to avoid set-up (and for the best light) this is a location that I only photograph at sunrise. 

3. Tudor Place

Tudor Place Historic House and Garden, located in Georgetown, is the former home of Martha Washington’s grandchildren. The mansion itself is a museum filled with antiques full of American history, but for engagement sessions, the gardens are just perfect. The Tudor Place gardens are perfectly manicured, and a true oasis in the middle of the city. For plant lovers, there’s even more to see, since it’s home to some unique heirloom species that were planted over a century ago. Reserving a session at Tudor Place provides you private access to the gardens, so there’s no chance of tourists showing up in the back of your photos – how luxurious! 

4. DC Monuments

When it comes to a DC engagement session, is there anything more iconic than the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument? Even though I’ve photographed there dozens of times in my years as a photographer, there’s still something special about waking up before dawn and meeting my couples at the reflecting pool. These are the true symbols of DC, and the perfect backdrop for any couple who wants to show their love of the city. Keep in mind though, this is a spot that gets crowded early in the day, so if you want engagement pictures without the crowds, you’ll definitely want to be there early.

5. Supreme Court, Library of Congress, & Capitol Building

If you’re looking for another iconic DC location for your engagement photos that is maybe a little less common, I highly recommend the Library of Congress with stops at the Supreme Court and Capitol Building. The Library of Congress is an incredibly beautiful building that feels straight out of Paris, with grand staircases and unmistakable lamp posts. And just next door lies the Supreme Court Building, with ornate pillars and two small fountains. Just a few steps away sits the Capitol Building – possibly the most recognized building in the city.

6. National Arboretum

The National Arboretum is an incredibly underrated location in DC and one that I love for engagement sessions. Like many DC locations, it does require a photography permit to have a session there. However, the small fee and filing process are worth it for the gorgeous photos. If you and your partner love the outdoors but want a DC session, I highly recommend this spot! 

7. Georgetown

Historic Georgetown is such a gem. With brick sidewalks and charming row houses, it just feels quintessentially DC. Whether you live in Georgetown, or just like to visit, this is a beautiful spot for engagement photos. I’ve scoped out some incredible spots in the neighborhood and I love finding new gems with my couples. 

8. A Walking Tour

For couples who can’t decide between all of the incredible options I’ve listed above, I’d recommend a walking tour to several DC engagement photo locations! DC is full of great walking paths that can take you to some gorgeous and iconic locations around the city and I love taking my couples on an adventure! We can visit a few different locations in one session giving you lots of variety for your engagement photos. 

There are also some dream locations that I haven’t gotten to photograph an engagement session at – yet! These are all great options for engagement photos and I would love to take your pictures there! 

• Bishop’s Garden at the National Cathedral
• Hillwood Estate
• Anderson House
• Union Station

WASHINGTON DC ENGAGEMENT PHOTO LOCATIONS | WASHINGTON DC WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER | CHERRY BLOSSOM ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS