Planning to get engagement photos taken this summer but not sure where?


Looking for something more special than the typical engagement locations around DC like the Lincoln Memorial or Tidal Basin? Consider exploring some of the area's lesser-known but equally enchanting spots for your engagement photoshoot. As a DC engagement photographer, I have curated three creative ideas to capture the moment for your engagement session, perfect for those save-the-dates.


Location 1: Lavender Fields (June to mid-July)

Lavender fields is a lovely place for engagement and proposal photoshoots due to their soft, romantic hues and serene atmosphere. One of the best lavender fields in the DC area is the Seven Oaks Lavender Farm in Catlett, Virginia. With acres of blooming lavender, this farm provides a picturesque backdrop for your photoshoot.

Information

For the 2023 season (June 2-July 16), Seven Oaks Lavender Farm is open 9am-4pm Mon-Fri and 9am-5pm Sat-Sun. Tickets are $7 per person and includes 20 stems of lavender cutting. The farm is about an hour drive from Washington DC.


Suggested wardrobe colors & Fabric

Lilacs, Creams, Grays, Olives, and Whites.

Cotton, Linen, Chiffon

LOCATION 2: SUNFLOWER FIELDS (JULY-AUGUST)

I always look forward to sunflower season, which is perfect for engagement and proposal photoshoot for DC couples. The vibrant yellow blooms create a cheerful and romantic atmosphere, evoking feelings of warmth and happiness. There are a few great places to see sunflowers in the DC area and my favorite is Burnside Farms in Nokesville, VA. With 70 acres and 30 varieties of sunflowers, there is plenty to see and explore with your loved one.


INFORMATION

For the 2023 season (dates TBD), Burnside Farm is open from 9am-4pm (regular hours) and 4-8pm (sunset hours). Tickets are between $14-$23 (depending on day of the week and time) and includes 5 sunflower cuttings per person. The farm is about an hour drive from Washington DC.


SUGGESTED WARDROBE COLORS & fabric

Yellows, Oranges, Reds, Blues, Darks and Whites

Denim, Cotton, Linen

LOCATION 3: LOTUS FLOWER AT KENILWORTH AQUATIC GARDEN (MID-JULY)


A lotus flower garden is a magical setting for engagement and proposal photography. The serene and tranquil atmosphere of the garden provides a sense of peace and harmony, creating the perfect backdrop for capturing intimate and heartfelt moments.


INFORMATION

Lotus flowers can be found Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Garden in Northeast Washington DC. Admission is free and open daily 8am-4pm. You can get there by driving, ride-sharing, or taking public transit (15 min walk from the Deanwood Metro Station [Blue & Orange line]). Weekends can be crowded during peak lotus bloom so best time for a photoshoot would be early mornings or weekday.


SUGGESTED WARDROBE COLORS & fABRIC

Shades of Pinks, Teals, Royal Blues, Whites

Silk, chiffon, satin