There is something unforgettable about sunrise in Washington DC. The soft golden light, the quiet monuments, and the calm stillness make the city feel like it belongs entirely to you. For Alex and Drew, their sunrise engagement session at the DC World War I Memorial captured that exact feeling. In just 30 minutes, we created a gallery filled with warmth, romance, and the kind of natural connection that shines through when two people are completely at ease with one another.

Portrait of Alex and Andrew posing together between the marble columns at the DC War Memorial

An Intimate, Casual Chic 30 Minute Session in the Heart of Washington DC


The DC War Memorial is an ideal location for a shorter engagement session. Its white marble architecture, framed by tall trees and wide open greens, offers a timeless backdrop that photographs beautifully in early morning light. While no permit is required to shoot here, couples should know that anyone who does secure a permit will have priority access. Thankfully, there are excellent nearby alternatives such as the Reflecting Pool, Constitution Gardens, and the Jefferson Memorial, each equally stunning at sunrise.

Close up of the couple standing face to face and holding hands at the memorial
A couple holds hands and spins playfully in front of a neoclassical columned monument on a stone patio.

A Pandemic Meet Cute


Alex and Andrew’s story began during the pandemic when they both set their Hinge radius to just one mile. It didn’t take long to realize they lived only three blocks from each other. At the time, both were living in shared group houses and took any opportunity to spend time outdoors. Their early dates were spent on long walks and porch visits, slowly building a connection that felt natural and steady even in the midst of so much uncertainty.


Within the first few months, Alex took Andrew to Pittsburgh, her hometown, to have him vetted by her friends. Many of those introductions happened on porches, bundled up and socially distanced, but Andrew quickly won everyone over. As their relationship grew, they fell into roles that felt effortless. Andrew, who loves to cook, quickly took over the kitchen and collects every culinary tool he can get his hands on. He is always ready to expand his collection, though Alex keeps him in check due to their limited storage. Alex owns a small business and often says she couldn’t manage it without Andrew’s unwavering support and their shared approach to life at home.

Alex and Andrew walking arm in arm in front of the marble columns at the DC War Memorial
A couple shares tender moments in a park at sunset with golden sunlight filtering through trees.
A couple stands on a manhole cover wearing contrasting formal shoes - one in sneakers and one in dress shoes.

Why Sunrise DC War Memorial Engagement Works


The DC War Memorial shines at sunrise. The warm glow filtering through the trees creates beautiful movement and soft highlights that pair perfectly with casual chic outfits like Alex’s elegant white dress and Andrew’s polished neutral look. With fewer people around, couples can relax, move naturally, and enjoy the experience without distraction, which always leads to the most authentic and heartfelt photographs.


Their morning session felt like a quiet celebration of their story and a reflection of the life they continue to build together.

The couple laughing together in soft morning sunlight near the DC War Memorial
Romantic portrait of a couple holding each other with golden light filtering through the trees
A couple laughs joyfully together in a lush green garden setting during a romantic photoshoot.
A couple embraces tenderly in a romantic outdoor photoshoot with soft natural lighting and blurred background.
Close up of the couple’s hands and rings during their engagement session in Washington DC
A couple poses playfully between classical stone columns in a series of romantic architectural shots.
A couple embraces while looking at the Washington Monument during sunset on the National Mall in Washington DC.
Romantic dip and kiss pose beneath the marble pavilion at the DC War Memorial
A couple shares intimate moments at sunset under trees with golden sunlight filtering through the branches.
Romantic sunset engagement photos with couple embracing among tall trees in golden light.

If you are searching for more ideas to help you plan your own session, you can find additional inspiration and location guidance on my blog. Explore some of the most beautiful and iconic places for photos in the city right here: Best Engagement Photo Locations in DC.

Planning your own engagement session in Washington DC? Book Stefan as your DC engagement photographer to capture your story with timeless and heartfelt images.

A person in a white dress poses gracefully between classical stone columns in an outdoor setting.
A person wearing a checkered polo shirt and white pants stands near white columns in an outdoor setting.