Engagement Session Location Ideas in Washington DC

Washington DC is a city full of history, beauty, and unique locations that make it the perfect place for an engagement photoshoot. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there are plenty of options for engagement session locations that will help you capture the love and excitement of this special time in your life. Here are some ideas to get you started:

National Mall and Monuments

The National Mall and its iconic monuments are some of the most recognizable locations in Washington DC, and they make a stunning backdrop for engagement photos.

Permit Required: To shoot on the National Mall, you'll need to obtain a permit from the National Park Service. Permits are free, but you'll need to submit an application at least 10 days before your shoot. This is something I always help my clients with, so no worries about figuring this out on your own. This permit is an additional cost of about $150

Georgetown

Georgetown is a historic neighborhood that's known for its charming cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and beautiful waterfront views. It's a popular destination for engagement photos, and no permit is required to shoot in public areas.

National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art is a stunning location for engagement photos, with its classic architecture and beautiful outdoor space! To shoot here I recommend weekdays at opening. Fair warning, there will be crowds and I recommend at least 1.5-2 hour engagement session since there is a lot to see and two very large buildings a part of the museum.

Supreme Court Building

The Supreme Court Building is another impressive location for engagement photos, with its neoclassical architecture and beautiful grounds. To shoot inside the building, you'll need to obtain a permit from the Supreme Court's Public Information Office. Permits are free, but you'll need to submit an application at least 10 days before your shoot. Shooting outside on the grounds does not require a permit.

Union Station

Union Station is a historic transportation hub that features stunning architecture and plenty of interesting details for engagement photos. Both the outside and inside of this building is gorgeous! This is one of my favorite location to shoot at in the city! Plus there is no additional charge to shoot here, no permit required!

The Smithsonian Castle:

Nestled in the heart of the National Mall, the Smithsonian Castle stands as an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of knowledge and discovery. Its distinctive red sandstone facade, turrets, and elegant gardens create a regal backdrop for your engagement photos. Take a leisurely stroll around the castle's grounds, explore the enchanting gardens, or pose on the grand steps that lead to its entrance. The Smithsonian Castle's timeless beauty and rich historical significance will add a touch of grandeur and sophistication to your engagement photos, making them truly unforgettable.

Old Stone House Gardens on M Street

Old Stone House Gardens on M Street is a hidden gem in Georgetown that offers a beautiful and intimate setting for engagement photos. No permit is required to shoot in the outdoor gardens.

National Cathedral

The National Cathedral is a breathtaking location for engagement photos, with its Gothic architecture and beautiful gardens. To shoot inside the Cathedral, you'll need to obtain a permit from the Cathedral's Event Services Office. There is a fee for the permit, and you'll need to submit an application at least 30 days before your shoot. Permits are roughly $200

Old Town Alexandria

Located just across the Potomac River in Virginia, Old Town Alexandria is a historic and charming town that's full of character and beauty. To shoot in public areas, no permit is required. However, if you plan to shoot inside any of the historic sites or museums, you'll need to obtain a permit from