How to Find the Perfect Location for Your Family Photos in Maryland, Virginia & DC aka (The DMV)

As a DMV family photographer serving Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC, one of the most common questions I get is:

“Where's a good place to take family photos?”

Well. I think many of us living here appreciate the beauty of this area. There's a lot of great scenic places. The DMV is filled with incredible backdrops. From waterfront views and historic architecture to fields and iconic monuments, there is no shortage of beautiful locations.

But choosing the perfect setting isn’t just about finding somewhere pretty. The best family photo locations reflect your personality, your season of life, and the feeling you want and the experience you want to share with your family.

Here’s some thoughts I have on what goes into choosing a good location and how to choose the perfect location for your next DMV family photography session, hopefully with me.😊

1. Decide What Kind of Vibe You Want

Start by asking yourself: How do we want these photos to feel?

• Soft and romantic, is a sunset glow part of your vision?

• Urban and modern with brick buildings and city energy?

• Classic and timeless with iconic DC landmarks?

The DMV truly offers it all.

🌿 Nature & Open Green Spaces

If you love greenery and natural light, consider:

• Fort Washington Park – Waterfront views of the Potomac River, historic fort walls, and wide-open grassy areas perfect for sunset sessions. Let's just say, I love Fort Washington Park. Basically, it's just down the road from my home, has a variety of interesting backdrops, and the lighting is beautiful.

• Allen Pond Park– A peaceful lake, walking trails, and beautiful fall color.

• Meadowlark Botanical Gardens – Stunning gardens and spring blooms.

• Green Spring Gardens and Bon Air Park Rose Garden – A hidden gem with gardens and charming color filled flowers. Some weekends I just go to these gardens to just relax, people watch or read a book or scroll on my phone

• U.S. National Arboretum – I just love how stately and open this place is. It's perfect for bike riding or getting those steps in. Open fields, tree-lined paths, and the iconic Capitol Columns.

🌊 Waterfront Views

Water adds beautiful light and movement to family photos:

• Jones Point Park – I love being under the Woodrow Wilson Bridge. Very cool. Yes, it is cool because this area has built in shade cover. It is so open and has beautiful light, interesting architecture, and cool relaxing feels. River views and open space for kids to explore. It is also close to Old Town Alexandria, which has nice walking paths and it's just one step away from the Potomac River.

• Old Town Alexandria Waterfront – Cobblestone streets, boats, and charming historic character. And the Potomac River is a backdrop.

• National Harbor – It is a modern waterfront with clean lines and sunset views. And tons of nice restaurants, to go to after a fun family photo session.

🏛 Classic DC Backdrops

For a timeless, iconic feel:

• Tidal Basin – It is the perfect place to see cherry blossoms in the spring, along with thousands of other folks.

• Rock Creek Park – A forest-like escape in the middle of the city. A joy to walk. I love getting my steps in at this park, Plus there is indeed a creek, a beautiful waterway. You'll discover the creek while walking the path.

• Memorials and some Museums on Downtown Mall. One of my favorites is the Jefferson Memorial. Elegant and classic DC charm. This is one of my favorite places to do prom pictures.

When you work with me, I help narrow down options based on your family’s personality and the feeling you want your images to capture.

2. Consider the Season

DMV family photography is beautiful year-round, but certain locations truly shine in specific seasons.

🌸 Spring

• Tidal Basin – Cherry blossoms create a dreamy, romantic backdrop.

• Stanton Park – A quieter alternative with lovely blooms.

• Botanical Gardens - Want a city feel and flowers. This is it.

☀️ Summer

• CityCenterDC – Clean architecture, modern city energy, colorful, elevated classy feels.

• Green Spring Gardens – Lush greenery, colorful gardens, relaxing.

• Local waterfronts in Alexandria and National Harbor for glowing sunset light.

🍁 Fall

• Rock Creek Park – Rich fall foliage and golden tones.

• U.S. National Arboretum – Expansive trees and vibrant autumn color.

• Fort Ward Park – Open fields and beautiful fall backdrops.

❄️ Winter

• National Portrait Gallery – Indoor option with stunning architecture and natural light.

• National Harbor – Modern winter sessions with waterfront views.

• In-home sessions for a cozy, storytelling feel.

As your photographer, I always recommend locations based on lighting, weather, crowds, and accessibility for the season you book.

3. Think About Comfort and Convenience

If you have young kids, long walks, crowded spots, or limited parking can be stressful.

Some of my favorite family-friendly DMV locations are:

• Fort Washington Park – Easy parking and wide open space.

• Fort Ward Park – Variety of backdrops within a short walking distance.

• Allen Pond Park – Calm, scenic, and accessible.

We’ll choose a spot that keeps everyone relaxed so your photos feel natural and joyful.

4. Meaningful Makes a Difference

Sometimes the most meaningful location isn’t a park at all.

Maybe it’s:

• Your favorite walking trail

• Your neighborhood block

Anywhere and everywhere can be meaningful and powerful and such images can be worthwhile and beautiful.

5. Trust the Process

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Let's connect.

As a Maryland, Virginia, and DC family photographer, I guide you every step of the way. When we work together, you’ll receive:

• Location options

• Seasonal recommendations

• Outfit guidance

• A detailed prep guide

• Support in choosing a setting that fits your family’s personality

My goal is for you to show up feeling confident, relaxed, and excited.

Let’s Plan Your DMV Family Photography Session

The best part of this is that there are so many options. Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong Maryland, Virginia, or DC local, I would love to help you choose the perfect location and document your family in a way that feels authentic and true to you.

If you’re looking for a DMV family photographer who makes the experience easy, heartfelt, and fun, I would love to work with you.

Sonia Greenaway Mickle is a senior photographer and portrait photographer based out of Fort Washington Maryland and Northern Virginia and serves the Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia area. Her goal is to bring out every senior’s personality in their images and she's dedicated to making sure that every senior session is unique and different so that you enjoy your images that reflect you and only you, know that you're special and valued, and experience a fun time. Sonia is now booking the Class of 2026 students for senior sessions, as well as family and portrait sessions.