With so many stunning options to choose from, this location guide outlines the best Washington DC Engagement Photo Locations.
Best Washington DC Engagement Photo Locations:
The Meridian House
Fees and Permits: $250/hour for Monday-Friday daytime (9:00 to 5:00), need to make appointment
DAR Constitution Hall
Fees and Permits: No fee for outside, inside need to make appointment
DAR is a great location for elegance and timeless charm. The steps and columns give the perfect DC historic look, without being monument specific. With its stunning architecture and rich backstory, this place brings a whole new level of grandeur to your shoot.
Previous work at DAR Constitution Hall: DAR Wedding: Eleanor and Patrick’s Summer Wedding,
DAR Constitution Hall Wedding: Jill & Kevin,
Association of Wedding Professionals (AWP) Networking Event at DAR Constitution Hall
Library of Congress
Previous work at the Library of Congress:
Library of Congress Engagement Photos: Ray and Liz
Library of Congress Engagement Photos: Karen and Mike
Larz Anderson House
Fees and Permits: $600 for 2 hours on weekdays, need to make appointment
Union Station
Fees and Permits: No fee
This is a perfect “storytelling” location for engagement photos. It is a location to be photographed in the ‘hustle and bustle’ of a busy environment. Think lots of candids, grand archways and staircases. There are a lot of fun charming details in the interior, Union Station offers lots of creative freedom for creating memorable and dynamic images that reflect the vibrancy a busy city.
The National Cathedral
Previous work at the National Cathedral: DC Engagement Photos: Sayeh and Jake
National Museum of Women in the Arts
Fees and Permits: Fee unknown, need to make appointment
Now re-opened in 2024, choosing the National Museum of Women in the Arts for your engagement session offers a celebration of love and empowerment amidst a backdrop of artistic inspiration. With its stunning galleries and elegant architecture, this museum provides a sophisticated setting for capturing intimate moments that reflect your shared appreciation for creativity and female achievement.
Dumbarton House
Fees and Permits: Fee unknown, need to make appointment
Opting for Dumbarton House as the location for your engagement session invites you to step back in time and embrace the timeless charm of this historic residence. Nestled in the heart of Georgetown, the lush gardens and stately rooms of Dumbarton House offer a romantic ambiance that speaks to your appreciation for classic elegance and refined beauty.
Monument Locations
DC War Memorial
Fees and Permits: No fee
Selecting the DC War Memorial as your engagement photoshoot location honors the sacrifices of the past while celebrating the promise of your future together. Amidst the serene surroundings of the National Mall, this memorial provides a poignant backdrop for capturing moments of love and remembrance, reminding us all of the enduring power of love in times of peace and conflict alike.
Previous work at the DC War Memorial: DC War Memorial Engagement Session in Washington, DC | Jade and Aric
DC War Memorial Wedding: Veronica and Nayke
Lincoln Memorial
Fees and Permits: No fee
Opting for the iconic Lincoln Memorial for your engagement session promises a backdrop of monumental significance and timeless beauty. With its majestic columns and sweeping views of the Reflecting Pool and Washington Monument, this historic landmark embodies the ideals of unity, equality, and freedom, serving as a powerful symbol of your shared values and aspirations.
Previous work at the Lincoln Memorial: Lincoln Memorial Engagement Photos: Lauren and Patrick
Jefferson Memorial
Fees and Permits: No fee
Choosing the Thomas Jefferson Memorial for your engagement session invites you to bask in the tranquility and grace of one of DC’s most beloved landmarks. Set against the backdrop of the Tidal Basin and surrounded by cherry blossoms in springtime, this memorial exudes a sense of timeless elegance and natural beauty, providing the perfect setting for capturing moments of love and reflection.
Previous work at the Jefferson Memorial: Jefferson Memorial Engagement Photos | Eleanor and Patrick
Urban Chic Locations
The Eaton Hotel
Fees and Permits: Fee unknown, need to make appointment
Opting for the Eaton Hotel as the backdrop for your engagement session infuses your photos with a vibrant, urban energy unique to city life. Situated in the heart of downtown DC, this boutique hotel boasts a contemporary aesthetic that perfectly complements the bustling atmosphere of the surrounding streets. With its sleek architecture and modern interiors, the Eaton Hotel offers a sophisticated yet dynamic setting for capturing moments of love and connection against a backdrop of city lights and urban charm.
Union Market
Fees and Permits: No fee
Choosing Union Market for your engagement session introduces an eclectic and edgy vibe to your photos, capturing the essence of urban living in DC. Nestled in the heart of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, this market showcases a blend of brick walls, graffiti art, and industrial accents that add a gritty yet artistic flair to your images. Against this backdrop of urban chic, your engagement photos will exude a sense of spontaneity and authenticity, reflecting your love for the vibrant pulse of city life.
Rooftops
Rooftops are great for lighting, with panoramic views of the city skyline as your backdrop, these elevated spaces offer a unique and stunning setting for capturing moments of love and connection.
REACH at the Kennedy Center
Fees and Permits: No fee
Selecting the REACH at the Kennedy Center for your engagement session promises an experience infused with creativity and cultural significance. As an extension of the iconic performing arts venue, the REACH offers a stunning blend of contemporary architecture, artistic installations, and scenic waterfront views. Amidst this dynamic setting, your engagement photos will capture the essence of artistic expression and sophistication, reflecting your shared love for the arts and cultural exploration.
Previous work at the REACH at the Kennedy Center: Kennedy Center Engagement Photos: Alex and Zach
Outdoor Gardens
Opting for a garden for your engagement session offers a serene and picturesque backdrop that effortlessly exudes romance and natural beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and tranquil water features, these outdoor settings provide the perfect ambiance for capturing timeless moments of love and connection.
The Tudor Place
Fees and Permits: Need to make appointment
Opting for Tudor Place as the location for your engagement session transports you to a bygone era of charm and elegance. Nestled in the historic Georgetown neighborhood, this grand estate boasts lush gardens, majestic architecture, and a rich history that provides a picturesque backdrop for your photoshoot. Against this backdrop of timeless beauty, your engagement photos will capture the romance and grace of a bygone era, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Enip A Haupt Garden
Fees and Permits: No fee
Also called the Smithsonian Gardens, selecting Enid A Haupt Garden for your engagement session invites you to immerse yourselves in the serene beauty of nature amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Tucked away behind the Smithsonian Castle, this hidden gem boasts meticulously landscaped gardens, tranquil water features, and stunning views of the surrounding landmarks. Amidst this oasis of calm, your engagement photos will exude a sense of peace and tranquility, capturing the beauty of your love amidst the beauty of nature.
Previous work at the Enid A Haupt Garden: Enid A. Haupt Garden Photos: Katherine and Erwin
Bishops Garden
Fees and Permits: No fee
Choosing Bishops Gardens for your engagement session offers a romantic escape to a lush and enchanting oasis in the heart of DC. Tucked away on the grounds of the National Cathedral, these gardens feature winding pathways, vibrant flowers, and serene ponds that provide a picturesque backdrop for your photoshoot. Against this backdrop of natural beauty, your engagement photos will capture the romance and tranquility of a fairytale garden, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Previous work at Bishops Garden: DC Engagement Photos: Sayeh and Jake
The National Arboretum
Fees and Permits: Permit required, $150
Opting for The National Arboretum as the location for your engagement session promises a breathtaking backdrop of natural beauty and botanical splendor. With its vast collection of plants, flowers, and trees from around the world, this expansive outdoor oasis offers endless opportunities for stunning photos amidst lush greenery and colorful blooms. Whether you’re strolling hand in hand through the azalea gardens or posing beneath the towering columns of the Capitol Columns, your engagement photos will exude a sense of natural wonder and timeless beauty.
Lifestyle Restaurants and Bars
Choosing a restaurant or bar for your engagement session infuses your photos with a cozy and intimate vibe, while also adding a touch of culinary and cocktail flair to your shoot.
Le Diplomate
Fees and Permits: Case by case, need to make appointment
Selecting Le Diplomate for your engagement session infuses your photos with a touch of Parisian charm and culinary sophistication. As one of DC’s most iconic French restaurants, Le Diplomate boasts a timeless ambiance, elegant decor, and delectable cuisine that provide a perfect backdrop for capturing moments of love and connection. Whether you’re sipping champagne on the charming outdoor patio or sharing a kiss beneath the twinkling lights of the bistro, your engagement photos will exude a sense of romance and joie de vivre, reflecting your shared love for fine dining and French culture.
Jane Jane
Fees and Permits: Case by case, need to make appointment
Selecting Jane Jane for your engagement session offers a trendy and intimate atmosphere that perfectly encapsulates the charm of DC’s vibrant dining scene. With its cozy interior, eclectic decor, and inventive cocktails, this stylish cocktail bar provides a chic backdrop for capturing moments of love and connection. Whether you’re sharing a toast at the bar or cuddling up in one of the plush booths, your engagement photos will exude a sense of urban sophistication and laid-back elegance, reflecting your shared love for good drinks and great company.
Jack Rose
Fees and Permits: Case by case, need to make appointment
Opting for Jack Rose for your engagement session promises an experience infused with warmth, character, and a touch of old-school charm. As one of DC’s most beloved whiskey bars, Jack Rose boasts a cozy and inviting ambiance, with its rich wood furnishings, vintage decor, and impressive selection of spirits. Whether you’re sipping whiskey by the fireplace or lounging on the rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city skyline, your engagement photos will capture the timeless allure of this iconic DC establishment, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Previous work at Jack Rose: DC Engagement Photos at Jack Rose: Ana & Chris
Near Water
Any location near water, just like rooftops, offers great lighting because of the reflection of the light. Water also evokes a sense of peace and tranquility, here are my favorite spots if you are looking to be near water.
Georgetown Canal
Fees and Permits: No fee
Choosing the Georgetown Canal for your engagement session offers a charming and picturesque backdrop that captures the essence of this historic neighborhood. As you stroll hand in hand along the cobblestone pathways and quaint bridges that line the canal, your engagement photos will exude a sense of timeless romance and tranquility, reflecting the beauty and charm of Georgetown’s waterfront.
Previous work at the Georgetown Canal: Pinstripes Wedding DC: Renee and Jay
Tidal Basin
Fees and Permits: No fee
Choosing the Tidal Basin for your engagement session offers a quintessentially DC experience, with its iconic cherry blossoms and breathtaking views of the monuments. As you stroll hand in hand along the water’s edge, framed by the delicate pink blooms and the majestic backdrop of the Jefferson Memorial, your engagement photos will exude a sense of romance and timeless beauty. Whether you’re posing beneath the blooming trees or admiring the sunset over the water, the Tidal Basin provides the perfect backdrop for capturing moments of love and connection amidst the natural splendor of the nation’s capital.
Previous work at the Tidal Basin: La Vie DC Wedding: Jade and Aric
The National Mall and Reflection Pool
Fees and Permits: No fee
Choosing the National Mall for your engagement session promises a backdrop steeped in history, patriotism, and timeless beauty. With its iconic monuments, sweeping vistas, and lush green spaces, the National Mall offers a quintessentially Washington, D.C. setting that exudes grandeur and significance. Whether you’re posing in front of Lincoln Memorial, framed by the Washington Monument, or strolling along the Reflecting Pool, this spot is one of the Best Washington DC Engagement Photo Locations. Against this iconic backdrop, your engagement photos will radiate a sense of patriotism and pride, while also celebrating the love and connection between you and your partner. So, if you’re looking for a location that is both awe-inspiring and deeply meaningful, the National Mall provides the perfect setting for creating unforgettable memories that reflect the spirit of the nation.
Previous work at the National Mall: National Mall Engagement Photos at Sunrise: Avanti and Arland
Unique Locations
Kreeger Museum
Fees and Permits: Case by case, need to make appointment
Opting for the Kreeger Museum as the location for your engagement session promises an artistic and intimate backdrop that reflects your love for culture and creativity. Tucked away in a serene wooded enclave, this modernist masterpiece boasts stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and a world-class collection of contemporary art that provide a unique setting for your photoshoot. Whether you’re posing amidst the sculptures in the outdoor sculpture garden or admiring the masterpieces within the museum’s galleries, your engagement photos will exude a sense of sophistication and artistic flair, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Indoor Locations
Library of Congress
Fees and Permits: No fee for outside, inside need to purchase entry tickets
The Library of Congress is one the Best Washington DC Engagement Photo Locations because of its indoor and outdoor options. Opting for the Library of Congress for your indoor engagement session promises a blend of intellectual sophistication and architectural grandeur. As the largest library in the world, this iconic institution offers a myriad of stunning spaces for your photoshoot, from the grandeur of the Great Hall to the intimate alcoves lined with rare books. Against this backdrop of knowledge and culture, your engagement photos will exude a sense of timeless elegance and intellectual curiosity, reflecting your shared love for learning and exploration.
Previous indoor work at the Library of Congress: Library of Congress Engagement Photos: Ray and Liz
National Gallery of Art
Fees and Permits: No fee
Choosing the National Gallery of Art for your indoor engagement session invites you to immerse yourselves in the world of artistic expression and cultural significance. With its vast collection of masterpieces spanning centuries and continents, this prestigious museum provides a rich and diverse backdrop for your photoshoot. Whether you’re posing amidst the classical sculptures of the West Building or admiring the contemporary works in the East Building, your engagement photos will capture the beauty and creativity of the human spirit, reflecting your shared appreciation for art and culture. This museum is another one the Best Washington DC Engagement Photo Locations because of its indoor and outdoor options.
Previous indoor work at the National Gallery of Art:
National Gallery of Art DC Photos: Bridal Portraits with Shaby
DC Elopement at National Gallery of Art and Cafe Riggs: Mark and Cindy
