Most Instagrammable Spots at the National Cherry Blossom Festival

Where to find the most Instagram-worthy spots at the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Best places in DC for Cherry Blossom Photos, Take Cherry Blossom Photos like a Pro!

Don’t get stuck in the bottleneck of tourists - come check out the best spots to take photos at the National Cherry Blossom Festival, no matter the crowds. Here are my favorite spots for the most instagrammable photos of DC’s cherry blossoms. Enjoy the photos below, and don’t forget to check out my cherry blossom fine art print shop!

South side of the Tidal Basin

Check out both sides of the Jefferson Memorial along the water (bathrooms available there too!). Low-hanging branches on the east side of Jefferson yield stunning, artistic photos highlighting both the cherry blossoms and our national monuments.

Tidal Basin Paddle Boats

There’s nothing more adorably iconic in DC than the swan paddle boats floating peacefully on the Tidal Basin. They are located on the east side of the basin, just off 14th Street.

Capitol Building - Mall Side

In one direction you’ll be able to photograph the Capitol Building, and in the other direction, the National Mall and Smithsonian Castle peeking out over a cluster of cherry blossom trees. You’ll want a telephoto lens for this, the museums on the Mall are pretty far away from this spot.

FDR Memorial

The least crowded side of the Tidal Basin during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, the FDR Memorial has dozens of trees sprinkled throughout. You’ll also have spectacular views of the Jefferson Memorial from this (west) side of the basin, and the ground slopes so you can stand up higher than the crowds and easily take great photos.

Walk from MLK Jr Memorial to the Jefferson Memorial, and on your way you’ll discover the location for iconic photos of the National Cherry Blossom Festival with the Washington Monument in the distance. It’s extremely easy to avoid getting too many people in your photos thanks to the basin’s curve in that spot. This area is gorgeous any time of day, from sunrise (below) to sunset.

Kutz Bridge on Independence Ave

The north side of the Tidal Basin has the most space to walk around, and gorgeous views across the water of the Jefferson Memorial, and the pink cherry blossom trees in all their glory. Stay to the west of Kutz Bridge and you’ll see the Japanese Lantern (first cherry blossom tree memorial) and a wide-open grassy space - that’s your spot!

There are tons of low-hanging branches so you can get those crisp, detailed close-ups of the delicate cherry blossoms. These branches also offer a spectacular backdrop for portraits (see below: yours truly!)

Small Pond across the street from the Tidal Basin

Between Independence Ave SW and Kutz Bridge is a small pond (separated from the Tidal Basin by Kutz Bridge) completely surrounded by cherry blossom trees on one side. Plenty of low-hanging branches make it easy to photograph individual blossoms, or step back a few feet and artistically frame the Washington Monument with pink flowers.

MLK Jr Memorial - view of the Washington Monument

Staying on the north side of the Tidal Basin, you’ll have great views through white and pink cherry blossom trees of the MLK Jr Memorial. The Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument are visible too, by turning in other directions.

BONUS!

Smithsonian Castle's Enid A. Haupt Garden on Jefferson Drive SW (entry on Independence Ave).

When the magnolias are in bloom just before the cherry blossoms reach peak bloom, the entire garden is pink. It’s breathtaking and while it can attract crowds, not everyone knows about it, so you might get lucky and have the garden almost all to yourself like I did.

National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington DC

Sneak peek at what the cherry blossoms will look like during peak bloom at the Tidal Basin! Check out my cherry blossom wall art in my online shop.

Spring is just around the corner in our nation’s capital! The cherry blossoms will soon bloom around the magnificent Tidal Basin.
Here’s a shot of the Jefferson Memorial during last year’s peak bloom.

Photographed with my Canon 5D Mark II at f/13, 1/640 sec.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial sits across the basin from Jefferson, with the Lincoln Memorial just behind it.

Photographed with my Canon 5D Mark II at f/9, 1/320 sec.

Magical Cherry Blossom Maternity Session at Sunrise

ONLY TWO SPOTS LEFT!

SUNRISE CHERRY BLOSSOM SESSION

We met at the Jefferson Memorial at 6am, the night sky just starting to turn pink with the first rays of cherry blossom sunlight. The Tidal Basin was still and glassy, perfectly reflecting the deep blue night sky. A magical morning for celebrating new life. Congratulations you two!

~ Sneak Peek at their epic engagement ~

Hannah & Joe's Cherry Blossom Portrait Session

CHERRY BLOSSOM ENGAGEMENT - MINI SESSIONS

Three mini spots remaining - save yours now!

I absolutely adored watching these two together as I photographed them around the cherry blossoms - romantic, easy, and happy to let me take their photos well past sunset for some fun nighttime shots.

The Washington DC Cherry Blossom Festival is the perfect location for engagement photos. This year I’m offering full engagement photo sessions, and mini sessions as well! They are nearly sold out, so book yours early! Mini sessions are scheduled for Saturday during peak bloom, and our rain date is the next day, Sunday, at the same time.

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CHERRY BLOSSOM PHOTO SHOOT FAQs

What if it’s overcast?
Mini sessions are held mid-afternoon when it’s nice and bright, so we’ll still have plenty of light on even the cloudiest of days. And, as a perk, you might get a deep blue, dramatic sky!

Isn’t mid-afternoon too bright for good photos?
Nope! We don’t shoot at noon, we shoot from 2:30-4:30, in what I like to call pre-sunset light. It’s hard to take a bad photo at the cherry blossoms, and after nearly 16 years of photographing around the Tidal Basin, I know the best time of day for our needs, and the best locations for crowd control (see below).

I’m worried about crowds if we don’t take photos at sunrise.
On peak bloom weekend, yes, there will be TONS of people. However, after 16+ years of photo shoots during cherry blossom peak bloom, I’ve selected the ideal spot for our mini sessions: wide spaces to allow more room to work around people walking, away from the main path (so more people sitting to picnic rather than constantly walking by), and trees on all sides, not just along the Tidal Basin, to give us several backdrop options while still photographing the cherry blossoms.

What if we take photos before/after peak bloom?
These are what I call my Priority Sessions (vs Premium). Peak bloom means 70% or more of the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom. Before that, you’ll have fewer blossoms overall, but some trees may reach peak bloom before the majority. You’ll still get beautiful, pink, flower-filled photos, even days before or after peak bloom. My priority session clients are always THRILLED with the results.

Winter Family Portraits at the Lincoln Memorial

It was a chilly afternoon, but Brent and Kimberly’s beautiful family were all smiles. We had so much fun running around the Lincoln Memorial grounds with tree-lined sidewalks, a beautiful reflecting pool, and of course, the majestic monument in the background.

Graduation Portraits

Brooklyn was honored with a prestigious art award at the Capitol, and her whole family was flown out from Ohio for the event. I had the pleasure of photographing her on the National Mall, and together we coordinated each fabulous outfit for our various locations. Some of my favorite spots for photos on the Mall are the Enid A Haupt Garden, the Reflecting Pool, and the Lincoln Memorial.

Sakura Family Portraits :: Washington DC's Cherry Blossoms

It always means the world to me when, year after year, families and couples ask me for portrait sessions. I’ve had the pleasure of watching dozens of kids grow up from the time they were one month old - or in Jonathan’s case, not yet born! Jessica and her husband (not pictured due to his job) traveled from several hours away for their cherry blossom portrait session for the second year in a row. They used to live in Japan where she got her gorgeous kimono. Needless to say with her beautiful outfit and absolutely adorable son, there was a crowd of tourists clamoring behind me trying to take their photo! Luckily we found some quieter spots and created some magical portraits together!

If you’re planning a trip to DC, let’s connect!

I help families from across the country and around the globe plan their portrait session at all the best spots - you won’t miss anything and we’ll have a ton of fun in the process! You’ll come away with dozens of laughter-filled photos capturing your precious memories.

Family portrait sessions on your trip to DC are an exciting way to become familiar with the city, find the best vantage points, and have fun seeing the sights. Together we’ll create a custom photography collection that’s right for you. You’ll come away with a beautiful set of photographic wall art prints, an album, and online gallery to share with loved ones around the world.

Cherry Blossom Family Portrait Session :: Unposed Fun in DC

The cherry blossoms peak bloom is one of the most magical times of year. The festival marks the beginning of spring, and families of all shapes and sizes come out to play! This family portrait session took place a sunset on the Tidal Basin. After weeks of frigid weather, we finally saw bright blue skies and golden sunlight.

If you’re planning a trip to DC, let’s connect!

I help families from across the country and around the globe plan their portrait session at all the best spots - you won’t miss anything and we’ll have a ton of fun in the process! You’ll come away with dozens of laughter-filled photos capturing your precious memories.

Looking to book your cherry blossom photo session?

Send me an email!

Surprise Proposal over Reflecting Pool & National Mall, Washington DC, Lincoln Photography

Ashley and Jamie were acquainted years ago while on the same swim team; it wasn’t until 2017 when he moved to DC that they had their first date at Heritage Brewing in Virginia. Since then, their love has grown as they stand strongly, side-by-side, through the best and worst of times.

When they “survived” their first vacation together in Cancun, Ashley knew their future would always be filled with fun and laughter, no matter what they got into. But, when Jamie was ill with food poisoning while returning from Europe, Ashley took charge of packing and helping him walk through multiple airports. “She saw me at my absolute lowest point, and still wanted to be by my side. It was then that I truly knew I would spend my life with her.”

And when Ashley’s company hit a rough patch in 2020, Jamie was by her side through anxious phone calls and emails. He always reminded her that they were a team, saying “we will get through this.”

James proposed to Ashley this weekend on a perfect, blue-sky afternoon at the Lincoln Memorial in downtown Washington, DC after lunch in Georgetown.

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“I fell in love with Ashley's extremely kind heart and thoughtfulness; her ability to love me for me, despite how silly and child-like I can be at times. Ashley makes me feel cared for, inspired, confident…the words can go on and on. She makes me feel this way every day.”
~ James

“I fell in love with Jamie when I first saw him interacting with my niece and nephew. Jamie is a totally family-oriented person and it really warmed my heart to see how well he interacted with them and how naturally it came.”
~ Ashley

Meghan & Nick :: Engaged!

Yesterday was a beautiful afternoon here in DC, blue skies and warm sunshine for this happy couple's engagement session down by the Lincoln Memorial. Meghan and Nick met in college, and this summer he proposed…on a secluded beach…at sunrise! #couplegoals

DC Wedding Portraits :: Aleasa & Neal

Aleasa & Neal were one of many couples I had scheduled for big wedding day celebrations this summer, but due to covid, had to drastically change their plans and adapt to make the most of the situation. I won’t be able to attend their new wedding for various reasons, but we took full advantage of the situation to focus on wedding photography - detail photos, bridal portraits, preparation shots, they even had a mini cake and champagne ready to go! We started with preparation photos and an impromptu *first look* session at the JW Marriott on Pennsylvania Ave, overlooking the DC skyline and the Washington Monument. They laughed together in Meridian Hill Park while popping a bottle of Moët Rosé, and cuddled in the limo en route to iconic spots around DC for portraits. We narrowly missed the rain and thunderstorms, and Aleasa & Neal’s wedding portrait session turned out fabulous! While I always give lots of direction during portrait sessions, these two hardly needed instruction to gaze lovingly into each other’s eyes, steal a kiss, laugh and enjoy life together. Such a treat to photograph! I’m so happy we made it work and that I was still able to help capture precious memories of your wedding celebrations, in a very unique way. I had so many favorites, this post doesn’t even scratch the surface. Get ready for lots of images below!

Right after I gestured to Aleasa to put frosting on Neal’s nose!

One of my absolute favorites!

Lincoln Memorial Sunrise Engagement :: Kavitha & Sachein!

We met just before dawn in downtown DC, when only a few dreamers are out, ready to watch the sunrise. It was a perfect morning for Kavitha and Sachein's engagement portraits - blue clouds rising above the monuments, a gentle breeze. After exploring the Lincoln Memorial and surrounding grounds, we headed over to the Georgetown waterfront. This location is special to Kavitha and Sachein because they had their first date there, overlooking Key Bridge! As the morning came to a close, we wandered the canal and found a beautiful, secluded patio filed with greenery and flowers. These two exude happiness and are all smiles - and clearly very in love!

Wedding Portraits :: Valerie & Kelvin are married!

I lovedlovedloved spending a glorious *sunrise* with Valerie & Kevin last week before their wedding day. We ran around the National Mall as the sky turned from orange and pink to a beautiful blue sky to start the day. Rosita their precious little pup joined in on the fun! Their portraits ended with dancing and a few intimate moments in the Enid A Haupt Garden, and to our delight the magnolia trees were in full bloom! Congratulations you two!

Jessica & Chris :: Little Jameson is going to be a big brother!!

I’ve had the immense honor of photographing this beautiful couple since their engagement in 2013, and now they are expecting their second child! I couldn’t be happier for them, or more excited to continue photographing their love and happiness as a growing family.

Sunrise Engagement Portraits :: Alaysia & Jordan

Alaysia & Jordan met me on the National Mall in the wee hours of the morning for their sunrise engagement session! We started at the WWII Memorial on 17th, strolled along the Reflecting Pool toward the Lincoln Memorial, then headed over to Old Town Alexandria where golden-orange leaves magically fell from the trees and covered the cobblestone street.

Zach's romantic sunset proposal to Eliza at the Jefferson Memorial

The sky was deep blue and orange, golden light on the trees around the Tidal Basin…Zach got down on one knee on the edge of the water and proposed to Eliza! *She said yes!* And, to celebrate the happy event, their families were waiting nearby with balloons and cheer. Congratulations you two!

Fall Engagement Session in DC :: Ashima & Abhishek

This fabulous couple came down to DC from New Jersey! Their love and happiness together - not to mention Ashima's beautiful dress - added a wonderful pop of color to this cool autumn afternoon.
Congratulations you two!

July 4th from the Capitol's Congressional Floor

It was a beautiful evening ~ first, I photographed a proposal (#shesaidyes)! Then, I picnicked on the Capitol west terrace with my bff Kristine (whose articles are rocking over at Military Times, yeah!) as we watched the spectacular fireworks display this evening here in Washington, DC.
Happy Fourth of July!

DC adventures ~ Couple's Portraits!

Simon & Deena are the definition of happiness together - full of laughter, life, and not afraid to break out dancing without warning. It was a beautiful afternoon with them downtown!