Best Engagement Photo Locations in DC from a DC Engagement Photographer

WEDDINGS

As a DC engagement photographer, I have an exclusive understanding of some of the city’s greatest known and unknown engagement session locations. From historic landmarks to iconic structures, we can find something that perfectly matches your energy and vision. Want something timeless and classic? We have stunning architecture with gasp-worthy views. Want something edgy and bold? There is a restaurant or hotel with the perfect vibe. Want a little bit of everything? DC has it all.  

No matter what vibe you want for your photos, we will find something that feels true to your personality and style. This blog gives you a behind-the-scenes look at seven of my favorite DC engagement shoot locations.

Film photos of couples walking around DC with the Capitol Building in the background

DC Restaurants and Bars 

If there’s anything I love as much as taking stunning photos, it’s good food and drink. And when we combine the two? I’m in my happy place. Taking engagement photos in a restaurant or bar is great for a few reasons. First, we won’t have to worry about the weather. Rain or shine, summer or winter, you will have a guaranteed place for photos. Second, many couples find photos more comfortable when they’re doing something that feels natural and familiar. And what’s more familiar than going on a date with your person? (Bonus points if you’ve actually gone on a date at the place we choose!) 

Restaurant and bar engagement photos have an effortlessly chic feel, and you get to enjoy some good food and drinks during your session. Does this sound right up your alley? Take it from a DC engagement photographer, Le Diplomate and Jane Jane are two incredible choices for food and photos.

An engaged couple sits at a cafe table outside of Le Diplomate in Washington. DC
Engagement photos of a man and a woman holding martinis at a bar in Washington DC
A blonde woman and a brunette man lean across the bar at Le Diplomate to kiss
An engagement photo of a man and a woman standing in the doorway of Jane Jane in Washington, D.C.
A woman in a white dress having a drink at a bar in DC with her fiance
Three polaroid photos of a man and woman enjoying drinks at Jane Jane in Washington DC

Museums 

If there’s one thing DC stands out for, it’s our museums. Not only are our museums famous for their educational value… they’re also beautiful. The National Gallery of Art and the National Portrait Gallery are two of my favorite locations for engagement photos. Not only are we safe from the weather, but we can also explore different exhibits for different backdrops. Plus, the streets surrounding the museums are perfect for some outdoor portraits that capture the charm of the city. 

A couple takes engagement photos outside the National Museum of Art in Washington, DC
Two women take engagement photos at the National Museum of Art in Washington DC
Two women in black and white outfits hold hands as they walk through a museum exhibit
A DC engagement photographer taking photos in a museum
Engagement photos in the great hall of the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC
Art museum engagement photos in Washington DC
A man and woman sit on the tiled floor of the National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC
A man and woman walking up a spiral staircase in an art museum

The Gardens at Dumbarton Oaks & Georgetown Neighborhood

The Gardens at Dumbarton Oaks is one of my favorite places for engagement photos. There is a romantic secret garden feel, more privacy for shyer couples, and cute city streets all around. The Gardens are open from May to October, and make for the best photos during peak bloom in early May. With easy parking, multiple beautiful locations inside, and the surrounding Georgetown streets, your engagement photos can have a perfect mix of city chic and elegant romance. 

A couple walks along the cobblestones at Dumbarton Oaks during their DC Engagement Session
A man and woman take DC engagement photos at the Garden at Dumbarton Oaks
An engaged couple walks along Georgetown streets while photographed by a DC engagement photographer
Film photos of a couple walking around Georgetown in Washington D.C.
A portrait of a couple walking around the Garden at Dumbarton Oaks during their DC engagement photos
A couple posing around the Gardens at Dumbarton Oaks

The Washington National Cathedral 

Want European grandeur a flight? The Washington National Cathedral is the place for you. As a DC engagement photographer, I am always thrilled to return to the cathedral. There are so many romantic spots, beautiful gardens, and, of course, the stunning architecture of the cathedral itself. Even if you don’t have your photos here, I highly recommend checking it out. Bonus points: it has easy parking and an adorable quaint coffee shop on the grounds. 

An engaged couple standing beneath a blooming cherry tree beside the National Cathedral
Couples engagement portraits outside the Washington National Monument
A woman in a romantic white dress and a groom in a suit taking engagement portraits in Washington DC
Couple's portraits in the grounds around the Washington National Cathedral
A DC engagement photographer takes portraits of a man and woman in Washington DC
A man and woman embrace at the National Cathedral

The Library of Congress

Romantic and classically DC, a photoshoot at the Library of Congress is a dark academia dream. It’s right across the street from the Capitol Building and surrounded by gardens, making it a perfect place for indoor and outdoor photos. With marble pillars, a grand staircase, and shining mosaic floors, the Library of Congress is breathtaking in every way. Be sure to go online and get everyone in your group a free ticket before you go.

A man and woman walk in front of the Library of Congress
A Library of Congress photoshoot by a DC engagement photographer
Polaroids of engagement photos outside the Library of Congress with the Capitol Building in the background
A bride and groom lean over a balcony inside the Library of Congress
Wedding portraits of a bride and groom walking up the grand staircase of the Library of Congress
Film photos of a bride and groom in the Library of Congress

The Wharf

With all of the beautiful parks and buildings in DC, it’s easy to forget that it’s on the water. If you’re looking for beautiful outdoor engagement photos, the Wharf is the place to go. Not only is it beautiful to walk along the water, but you also have the option to hop on a boat or pop into a restaurant to add some variety to your photos!  

Engagement photos along the wharf in Washington DC
A couple kisses on a walkway overlooking the water in Washington DC
Casual portraits of an engaged couple eating sushi in Washington DC

The Riggs Hotel 

I will take every possible excuse to visit the Riggs Hotel. It’s iconic for a reason. The Riggs was originally a bank, and the large pillars are reminiscent of its impressive history. To take photos here, you either need to pay for a photo permit or book a room. I highly recommend booking a room. Either way, you have access to the large lobby, colorful restaurant, and the moody speakeasy in the basement if it’s open. But if you book a room, we can take photos in there, too! The rooms at the Riggs Hotel are both beautiful and comfortable, giving us a stunning space for more intimate portraits. 

The Riggs Hotel is also right across from the National Portrait Gallery and lies on some of the most iconic DC streets. So whatever vibe you envision for your engagement photos, we can easily travel to a few locations to capture it.

Photos outside and inside the Riggs Hotel taken by a DC engagement photographer
An engaged couple takes portraits in a colorful room in the Riggs Hotel
An engaged couple drink coffee in the cafe at the Riggs Hotel

Your DC Engagement Photographer 

These seven locations are only scratching the surface of all the beautiful locations DC has to offer. As a DC engagement photographer, nothing gets me more excited than exploring this beautiful city with in-love couples. Because the truth is, your engagement photos will be perfect no matter where you take them. As long as you are present with the person you love, your photos will capture that feeling, and you can hold onto it for the rest of your lives. 

If you’re looking for a DC engagement photographer to capture your love story in one of the most beautiful cities, I would love to hear from you! Engagement sessions are included in each of my wedding packages, or you can schedule an individual engagement session. When you book with us, we’ll share our Locations Guide with you of our fav DC spots and help curate your session with you! Documenting your love is what I do best. Reach out to chat and schedule your session!

As a DC engagement photographer, I have an exclusive understanding of some of the city’s greatest known and unknown engagement session locations. From historic landmarks to iconic structures, we can find something that perfectly matches your energy and vision. Want something timeless and classic? We have stunning architecture with gasp-worthy views. Want something edgy and bold? There is a restaurant or hotel with the perfect vibe. Want a little bit of everything? DC has it all.  

No matter what vibe you want for your photos, we will find something that feels true to your personality and style. This blog gives you a behind-the-scenes look at seven of my favorite DC engagement shoot locations.

Film photos of couples walking around DC with the Capitol Building in the background

DC Restaurants and Bars 

If there’s anything I love as much as taking stunning photos, it’s good food and drink. And when we combine the two? I’m in my happy place. Taking engagement photos in a restaurant or bar is great for a few reasons. First, we won’t have to worry about the weather. Rain or shine, summer or winter, you will have a guaranteed place for photos. Second, many couples find photos more comfortable when they’re doing something that feels natural and familiar. And what’s more familiar than going on a date with your person? (Bonus points if you’ve actually gone on a date at the place we choose!) 

Restaurant and bar engagement photos have an effortlessly chic feel, and you get to enjoy some good food and drinks during your session. Does this sound right up your alley? Take it from a DC engagement photographer, Le Diplomate and Jane Jane are two incredible choices for food and photos.

An engaged couple sits at a cafe table outside of Le Diplomate in Washington. DC
Engagement photos of a man and a woman holding martinis at a bar in Washington DC
A blonde woman and a brunette man lean across the bar at Le Diplomate to kiss
An engagement photo of a man and a woman standing in the doorway of Jane Jane in Washington, D.C.
A woman in a white dress having a drink at a bar in DC with her fiance
Three polaroid photos of a man and woman enjoying drinks at Jane Jane in Washington DC

Museums 

If there’s one thing DC stands out for, it’s our museums. Not only are our museums famous for their educational value… they’re also beautiful. The National Gallery of Art and the National Portrait Gallery are two of my favorite locations for engagement photos. Not only are we safe from the weather, but we can also explore different exhibits for different backdrops. Plus, the streets surrounding the museums are perfect for some outdoor portraits that capture the charm of the city. 

A couple takes engagement photos outside the National Museum of Art in Washington, DC
Two women take engagement photos at the National Museum of Art in Washington DC
Two women in black and white outfits hold hands as they walk through a museum exhibit
A DC engagement photographer taking photos in a museum
Engagement photos in the great hall of the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC
Art museum engagement photos in Washington DC
A man and woman sit on the tiled floor of the National Portrait Gallery in Washington DC
A man and woman walking up a spiral staircase in an art museum

The Gardens at Dumbarton Oaks & Georgetown Neighborhood

The Gardens at Dumbarton Oaks is one of my favorite places for engagement photos. There is a romantic secret garden feel, more privacy for shyer couples, and cute city streets all around. The Gardens are open from May to October, and make for the best photos during peak bloom in early May. With easy parking, multiple beautiful locations inside, and the surrounding Georgetown streets, your engagement photos can have a perfect mix of city chic and elegant romance. 

A couple walks along the cobblestones at Dumbarton Oaks during their DC Engagement Session
A man and woman take DC engagement photos at the Garden at Dumbarton Oaks
An engaged couple walks along Georgetown streets while photographed by a DC engagement photographer
Film photos of a couple walking around Georgetown in Washington D.C.
A portrait of a couple walking around the Garden at Dumbarton Oaks during their DC engagement photos
A couple posing around the Gardens at Dumbarton Oaks

The Washington National Cathedral 

Want European grandeur a flight? The Washington National Cathedral is the place for you. As a DC engagement photographer, I am always thrilled to return to the cathedral. There are so many romantic spots, beautiful gardens, and, of course, the stunning architecture of the cathedral itself. Even if you don’t have your photos here, I highly recommend checking it out. Bonus points: it has easy parking and an adorable quaint coffee shop on the grounds. 

An engaged couple standing beneath a blooming cherry tree beside the National Cathedral
Couples engagement portraits outside the Washington National Monument
A woman in a romantic white dress and a groom in a suit taking engagement portraits in Washington DC
Couple's portraits in the grounds around the Washington National Cathedral
A DC engagement photographer takes portraits of a man and woman in Washington DC
A man and woman embrace at the National Cathedral

The Library of Congress

Romantic and classically DC, a photoshoot at the Library of Congress is a dark academia dream. It’s right across the street from the Capitol Building and surrounded by gardens, making it a perfect place for indoor and outdoor photos. With marble pillars, a grand staircase, and shining mosaic floors, the Library of Congress is breathtaking in every way. Be sure to go online and get everyone in your group a free ticket before you go.

A man and woman walk in front of the Library of Congress
A Library of Congress photoshoot by a DC engagement photographer
Polaroids of engagement photos outside the Library of Congress with the Capitol Building in the background
A bride and groom lean over a balcony inside the Library of Congress
Wedding portraits of a bride and groom walking up the grand staircase of the Library of Congress
Film photos of a bride and groom in the Library of Congress

The Wharf

With all of the beautiful parks and buildings in DC, it’s easy to forget that it’s on the water. If you’re looking for beautiful outdoor engagement photos, the Wharf is the place to go. Not only is it beautiful to walk along the water, but you also have the option to hop on a boat or pop into a restaurant to add some variety to your photos!  

Engagement photos along the wharf in Washington DC
A couple kisses on a walkway overlooking the water in Washington DC
Casual portraits of an engaged couple eating sushi in Washington DC

The Riggs Hotel 

I will take every possible excuse to visit the Riggs Hotel. It’s iconic for a reason. The Riggs was originally a bank, and the large pillars are reminiscent of its impressive history. To take photos here, you either need to pay for a photo permit or book a room. I highly recommend booking a room. Either way, you have access to the large lobby, colorful restaurant, and the moody speakeasy in the basement if it’s open. But if you book a room, we can take photos in there, too! The rooms at the Riggs Hotel are both beautiful and comfortable, giving us a stunning space for more intimate portraits. 

The Riggs Hotel is also right across from the National Portrait Gallery and lies on some of the most iconic DC streets. So whatever vibe you envision for your engagement photos, we can easily travel to a few locations to capture it.

Photos outside and inside the Riggs Hotel taken by a DC engagement photographer
An engaged couple takes portraits in a colorful room in the Riggs Hotel
An engaged couple drink coffee in the cafe at the Riggs Hotel

Your DC Engagement Photographer 

These seven locations are only scratching the surface of all the beautiful locations DC has to offer. As a DC engagement photographer, nothing gets me more excited than exploring this beautiful city with in-love couples. Because the truth is, your engagement photos will be perfect no matter where you take them. As long as you are present with the person you love, your photos will capture that feeling, and you can hold onto it for the rest of your lives. 

If you’re looking for a DC engagement photographer to capture your love story in one of the most beautiful cities, I would love to hear from you! Engagement sessions are included in each of my wedding packages, or you can schedule an individual engagement session. When you book with us, we’ll share our Locations Guide with you of our fav DC spots and help curate your session with you! Documenting your love is what I do best. Reach out to chat and schedule your session!