The Best Locations In and Around D.C. For Family Photos. Advice From a DC Family Photographer

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As a DC family photographer, I know there is no shortage of gorgeous locations to take photos around the area. In this post, I’ll be sharing a few of my favorite spots in and around D.C. for family photos. These are all tried and true locations that will set the stage for gorgeous images. Coupled with the perfect outfits your photos will loved, framed and up on the wall in no time!

1.) The Tidal Basin in Washington D.C. for family photos

The tidal basin is a WONDERFUL location for family photos in D.C. From this location, you can see many of the iconic D.C. monuments. In the spring, the Cherry Blossoms are blooming around the Tidal Basin, which makes this an extra popular photo spot. If you are visiting in the spring during the time when the cherry blossoms are blooming, I recommend an early morning session at sunrise to avoid as many tourists/people in the background of your photos. While the Tidal Basin will still be super busy early in the morning during the cherry blossoms, it is more manageable at this time. Plus, the early morning light is DREAMY! To keep track of when the Cherry Blossoms will be blooming, follow The Cherry Blossom Watch!

Even if you are going at other times during the year, the Tidal Basin is an ideal location for family photos.

2.) The National Portrait Gallery

The Portrait Gallery is a well lit, indoor space in D.C. that is perfect for family or maternity photos. If the weather is too hot or cold, this location is ideal! There is no fee associated with photographing here.

 

3.) The National Arboretum, a romantic spot for family photos in DC

The National Arboretum is a huge greenspace in Washington D.C. with beautiful gardens, blooming trees and iconic architecture. This location requires a permit fee and the session date + time will  need to be set up with the park service ahead of time.

4.) The Jefferson Memorial and Reflecting Pool

The reflecting pool is one of my most favorite spots in D.C. for photos because you can see several monuments in one location. I do suggest going in the early morning, at sunrise. The early wake up call is worth having less people in the background of your images, as this is a popular tourist spot.

(Fur babies are family, too!)

6.) Meridian Hill Park

Meridian Hill park is a beautiful location in the heart of D.C. that offers beautiful architecture and open green spaces. The cascading waterfall is a beautiful backdrop for photos that reminds me of Europe!

Nicole and Heath created their adoption book with the images we took at Meridian Hill Park. How cute is their pup with her little sign!?

7.) Oatlands Historic House- Venturing outside the city

Oatlands is just a short drive from the city and is one of the best locations if you want a garden-esque, romantic feel to your images. Here, you can find beautifully manicured gardens, a reflecting pool, and a gorgeous historic manor house. A photography permit is required for this location. I purchase a year photography pass so that my clients may use this location free of charge.

Sweet moments captured on film

Maternity sessions on film

8.) Sky Meadows State Park for family photos near Washington DC

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you have less than an hour drive to this beautiful location. With rolling hills, views of a large pond, mountains in the distance and fields for running through, this location can’t be beat. There is a permit required for this location. I purchase a year photography pass so that my clients may use this location free of charge.

9.) Blandy Farm

Blandy Farm is just a short drive from D.C. and is perfect if you want blooming flowers, open fields, and tall trees in your images. With all of the different backdrops to choose from, you are sure to enjoy exploring and taking in the scenery.  There are no fees associated with taking photos at this location.

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Are you looking for a family photographer in D.C.? Get in touch with Carly