The Ultimate Itinerary for pictures in Washington DC
Washington DC is packed full with pretty views, gorgeous architecture and charming corners. But it’s also often packed with tourists and can be tricky to navigate.
This guide will walk you through step-by-step how to make sure your photo session in DC takes full advantage of the scenery stress-free.
Start Early!
Not a morning person? Too bad. The key to capture breathtaking images in the capital is to be there before the tourists. I recommend starting your session in DC at sunrise, you’ll be glad you woke up early when you see the soft glow rising from Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
2. Begin at Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Thomas Jefferson Memorial is my favorite place to photograph early in the morning because the sun paints the interior walls with a beautiful golden light. Besides, you can find parking in several spots nearby, like the parking lots A or B and there’s street parking available throughout Independence Ave SW. Strategically I recommend finding parking as close to the Tidal Basin as possible or catch an uber from your parking spot to our meeting spot.
3. Walk around the Tidal Basin towards Ohio Drive Bridge!
Start your loop clock-wise around the basin to enjoy the sunrise view from the Ohio Bridge. After the bridge, we will walk through the Cherry Blossoms, stop at the beautiful white marbled scenery at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.
4. Stop at DC War Memorial
The sweet little round building with doric columns is the perfect spot to share vows or dance. It offers some shade and it is nestled between beautiful trees.
5. Say hi to Abe at the Lincoln Memorial
The classic DC landscape couldn’t be missed. From this point you can enjoy the water views at the Reflecting Pool, in the distance you’ll spot the Washington Monument. As you climb up the white steps you’ll find the US Capitol peaking on the landscape.
6. Wrap up at a cute coffee shop
Get your dose of caffeine while we capture a few candid images. Lucky us, DC is the home of many beautiful cafes.
Last but not least, make sure to reserve enough time to photograph this entire itinerary, the distance between monuments are bigger than it looks. I recommend investing at least 2 hours between start and finish point.