Kir Tuben, Owner of Kir2ben Photography a Virginia wedding photographer, shares some breathtaking location in our nations’s capitol for unforgettable engagement or proposal photos.
Check back next week to see her fav picks of Virginia locations!
“As a local wedding photographer, I have had heaps of couples ask me where to snap engagement or proposal photos in DC. Well, here you have it folks! This is my ultimate guide to engagement locations in DC.
Kennedy Center: I absolutely love the roof of the Kennedy Center. The back of the building never has people on it. Although the building is not open at sunrise, sunset is the perfect backdrop romantic photos. You can also see the Washington Monument in some angles.
The Georgetown water front: The Georgetown water front is also perfect for engagement photos. Sunrise or sunset is ideal here. You can take a stroll near the bridge or run through the fountain! There is also an ice rink in the winter time. You could also opt to rent a boat nearby!
The Georgetown canals: The Georgetown canals are extremely private and charming for a walk near the water. You can take a stroll or hop onto one of the 3 main bridges. The Key Bride park and waterfront are super close by as well.
Lincoln Memorial: Many people don’t know that you need a permit to shoot at the monuments. Pricing and information can be found on the NPS website. Sunrise is best for Lincoln if you want to avoid crowds and get amazing lighting. I also love the tree walkway near the main monument.
Jefferson Memorial: The same rules apply for permits at the Jefferson memorial. Sunrise is by far the best lighting but you can also capture great sunset photos with less people in the back of the building.
Tidal Basin: All around the Tidal Basin is perfect for photos during blossom season but even at sunrise (on the weekend at least) you will get some tourists in your photos. During blossom season, the Kenwood neighborhood is also a great location to snap some pink blooms or you can travel out of the city for some more secluded blossom action.
National Arboretum : If you’re looking for a secret garden for your engagement location, the National Arboretum is it! Dumbarton Oaks or the U.S. Botanical Gardens can also give that garden feel but they do not allow professional photography. In the arboretum, the herb garden and National Columns are the best spot for photos.
Dupont Circle: I am in love with unique spots that are special to a couple. There are so many darling neighborhoods in DC that really any small park like Dupont can be a romantic setting for a photo. The area around Logan Circle is also quite charming as well.
Meridian Hill Park: Meridian Hill Park is the best location for those who like vines, cobblestone and vintage looking colors. The park is least busy at sunrise but sunset also makes for great photos here. The Josephine Butler house next door to this park is a stunning wedding venue in the city.
Glen Echo Park: This location is one of my personal favorites! I always loved the feel of the fair. Instead of waiting for the state fair, you can venture over to Glen Echo Park and snap a few photos on the merry-go-round. This is for the old-school couple with a vintage flare.”
Here are some other less popular options to consider: Roosevelt Island, Union Station, Rock Creek Park, Eastern Market, Union Market, The Navy Yard/Yards Park, The Zoo, Nats Park (for all you baseball fans), in front of the US Capitol Building, and finally the Smithsonian Gardens.
I hope this was helpful for your planning! Remember, sunrise and sunset are the best times for any location. Definitely consider the seasonal look you want for your session as well!
Supreme Court Building- proposal
