Top 7 Favorite Photo Locations in DMV for Family Photo Sessions

One of the most popular questions I get when planning family portrait sessions is WHERE a session should be. As a DMV family photographer, I’ve had the chance to work at some truly beautiful locations year after year. So, today I wanted to share my top 7 favorite photos locations in the DMV so that your family has a great list to choose from. These are by no means the only places I’ll photograph families, but I think it’s a wonderful starting point! 

#1: Howard County Conservancy

I photograph sessions at the Howard County Conservancy more than any other location. It’s so beautiful here and all 232 acres are full of beauty. This location is perfect for children who love to explore nature and move around. It is also for the romantics who adore the best glowy light in Howard County and tall grasses. There is a permit fee for this spot, but because I shoot here so often, I’ve built the cost into my pricing! 

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See a recent 6 month old milestone session here! 

#2: Shrine of St. Anthony

The Shrine of St. Anthony in Ellicott City is another favorite location to photograph in the DMV. It’s such a versatile spot for family sessions. I love that you can get a little bit of gorgeous architecture and a super natural look in this one spot! If you want a timeless look and art to fill your homes, this is the place to have your sessions. To book a session here, we have to request access in advance. There’s no permits but donations are always welcome. 

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See a recent family session here! 

#3: Alexandria, Virginia

I LOVE photographing sessions in Alexandria! It’s such a beautiful city! There’s lots of great architecture because of the historical homes and you also have access to the waterfront. One of my favorite spots is the Caryle House because you get a little bit of both. If you’re looking for something that feels classic and historical, Alexandria is always a great option. 

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#4: Lincoln Memorial and War Memorial 

I’m a firm believer that there’s magic happening when you photograph sunrise sessions in Washington DC, especially around the Lincoln and War memorials. Those sunrise sessions are always next level. Photographing families at monuments is always a blast and a great way to connect the area’s history to your portraits. There is a permit fee but it’s 100% worth it!! 

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See my most recent family portrait session around the Lincoln Memorial. 

#5: Woodlawn Manor 

This is my favorite location in Montgomery County. I am obsessed with everything here! From the historic barn with the white ground to the glow coming down the driveway… it’s just beautiful every single time I come here. There is a small permit fee, but again it’s SO worth it.  

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#6: National Arboretum 

When you drive past the Arboretum on Route 50, you probably have no idea that a hidden treasure is right behind the gates. With so many gorgeous garden spaces and areas to explore, this is a great option for families – especially those with dogs! The Arboretum allows photography on certain days of the week and there is a permit with an after hours permit option. I’d love to go back and document a family at the columns.

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#7: Your home! 

I absolutely love, love, love lifestyle family sessions at home. There’s nothing that can beat how it feels to see your family living their best lives together in the place you love. Lifestyle family sessions are always a lot of fun and we can get such a variety of images. If you want more tips about how to plan a lifestyle session, read those here! 

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Bonus! My wish list… 

There’s a few places in the DMV that I haven’t photographed at yet but I’d love to! 

#1: Tudor Place in DC

They’ve got a permit fee here but it’s such a gorgeous spot and that fee allows you to have the location to yourself! It’s a Federal style home in the city and it’s just so beautiful! 

#2: Triton Beach Park in Mayo, MD

I did my own family portraits here recently and I loved every minute of it! I’d love to bring one of my families back here for sessions. Between the glow of the water and the trees, it just feels so special. 

#3: Butterbee Farm in Harford/Baltimore County, MD

Give me flowers and beautiful golden light, all the time! Butterbee Farm is just the culmination of everything you could ever want for your family portrait location! I can’t wait to photograph a session here.

I hope this list inspires you to find somewhere new and beautiful for your next family session! I’d love to know some of the places you love to go as a family so I can continue to expand this list over the next year!