Welcome to the ultimate, guide to photographing the pomp, circumstance, and marble-heavy wonders of Washington D.C.! Grab your camera (or iphone), dust off that lens you swore was essential but rarely use, and let’s get snappy in the capital of the Free World. We're going on a tour designed for photography enthusiasts with a penchant for history and a tolerance for tourists armed with selfie sticks.
Let me give you a little boost in your planning. As a D.C. Professional and a second life as a Professional Photographer, I want to make this your trip to remember with some of my clients favorite places to be photographed to memorialize their adventures in D.C.
Want to capture your visit with a photography session, in places other photographers struggle to access? Reach out and let us know when you're trip will be. We would love to hear more.
At Camley Images Photography, we don't just take photos; we capture moments, freeze emotions, and we encapsulate your journey with the vigor and fervor it deserves. Why should you hire us for your trip to Washington DC, Maryland, or Virginia? Because we are not merely photographers - we are storytellers, adventurers, and, above all, relentless pursuers of perfection.
As a Marine Corps Veteran, we start with a place close to my heart. Where some of my own Marines have been laid to rest, Arlington.
NO LETS GET MOVING..........
Arlington National Cemetery: First stop: a place of somber beauty and reflection, Arlington National Cemetery. Here, you can capture the eternal flame flickering at JFK’s grave, the precise, haunting synchrony of the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and endless rows of headstones. Just remember, while you're lining up the perfect shot, keep the mood respectful; it’s a cemetery, not a TikTok backdrop.
Capitol Building: Ah, the Capitol Building, where decisions are made, bills are passed (or not), and history is written. It’s also ridiculously photogenic. Snap a picture at sunrise or sunset for that perfect golden hour glow, when even politicians might look angelic.
Ford Theater: For all the drama lovers, Ford's Theater is where one of America’s most infamous acts of theater drama (aka Lincoln’s assassination) took place. Today, you can photograph this historic venue and ponder why anyone thought balcony seats were a good idea.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial: Ramble through the FDR Memorial with its statues, water features, and quotes etched in stone, capturing the essence of a man who led America through some of its toughest times with nothing but a fireside chat and sheer determination.
Library of Congress: Shh... You’re entering the domain of endless knowledge (and arguably, the best architecture in D.C.). The Library of Congress isn't just for nerds; it's a paradise for photographers. Those reading rooms are so stunning; you’ll want to break the silence with your camera clicks.
Lincoln Memorial: Ever wanted to have a staring contest with a 19-foot-tall Abe Lincoln? Now's your chance at the Lincoln Memorial. Get those dramatic night shots with Abe looking pensive under the moonlight or capture the reflection of the monument in the Reflecting Pool.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: Snap a shot of the Stone of Hope and the Mountain of Despair at the MLK Memorial. If your photography doesn’t evoke the spirit of MLK’s dream, at least your captions can be inspirational.
Camley Images Photography means choosing excellence, choosing to make every moment count, and most importantly, choosing to turn your journey through Washington DC, Maryland, or Virginia into a legendary saga ensuring that your memories are not just preserved, but immortalized in all their glory.
In the face of challenges, when the lighting isn’t perfect or the crowds won't part, we see opportunity. Make it unforgettable with Camley Images Photography.
Are you ready to push the boundaries, to capture the essence of your journey and to create memories that will not only last a lifetime but will be the envy of all who witness them? It’s time to make a statement. It’s time to choose Camley Images Photography. Because we are relentlessly committed to turning your travels into treasures.
OK, BACK ON TRACK....
National Mall: The runway of American history, folks. From the Capitol Building down to the Lincoln Memorial, it's a buffet of iconic sights. Pro tip: Get your camera ready for cherry blossom season; it’s like Coachella for trees and monuments.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial: The Wall. A simple design, yet profound in its impact. Photographing the names etched in black granite, possibly with a reflection of a visitor, is a somber yet powerful experience. Remember to lower your shutter speed; the emotions run deep here.
Washington Monument: That big pencil-looking thing. It’s hard to miss, and honestly, your D.C. photo collection would be incomplete without it. Catch it during golden hour, blue hour, or any hour in between.
White House: The White House. It's big, it's white, and it's one of the most photobombed buildings in the U.S. Before you get any fancy ideas, remember, climbing the fence for a closer shot is *not* recommended unless you want a personal meet and greet with the Secret Service. Capture its grandeur from a respectful (and legal) distance. The south side view is classic, but why not play with angles from Lafayette Park? You may not catch the President waving from a window, but hey, a squirrel chomping on a Presidential acorn can be just as epic.
World War II Memorial: Next, point your lens towards the World War II Memorial, where grand architecture meets reflective contemplation. The place is crawling with opportunities to capture the solemn beauty of history. Time your visit during golden hour, and you’ll swear the 56 pillars and a pair of triumphal arches start to glow as if the spirits of history are giving you a thumbs up for your Instagram feed. Try capturing the rainbow reflections in the fountain - they don’t charge extra for those. And if you play your cards right, you might snap that one magical shot that convinces everyone you're a deep, soulful photographer who reads books without pictures.
Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian: Ever wonder what it’d be like to photograph artifacts that don't include your grandma's antique vase? This museum's got you covered with a stunning collection of American Indian art and artifacts. Snap some culturally enriching shots while soaking in the vibrant colors and intricate designs. No promises, but your followers might just think you’ve become an anthropologist overnight.
ARTECHOUSE: Forget about reality for a moment (or an hour), and dive into the immersive digital art world of ARTECHOUSE. It's where the future of art meets technology, and your camera is the trusty sidekick. The challenge here is to capture the essence of moving digital art without dropping your camera in awe. Challenge accepted?
Bible Museum: You might not be expecting epic shots from a place dedicated to a book, but boy, does the Museum of the Bible have some visual miracles up its sleeve. Its stunning architecture and beautifully illuminated manuscripts will have you and your camera saying, Amen!
Hirshhorn Museum: Modern art fans, unite! This donut-shaped marvel isn’t just an architectural selfie spot; it's a treasure trove of contemporary and modern art. Get abstract with your shots and maybe confuse a few followers in the process. Is that a sculpture or did they drop their camera? Let them guess!
Holocaust Museum: This one’s heavy, folks. Photography is restricted in some areas to maintain the solemnity of the experience, but where permitted, your lens can capture profoundly moving imagery that tells a story needing to be told and retold. A true testament to the power of visual storytelling.
Jefferson Memorial: Stunning and an amazing backdrop for any family photo session with trees and benches for the shade on hot humid summer days. Built in Washington, D.C., between 1939 and 1943 in honor of Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the United States Declaration of Independence,
National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden: Nature, art, and a giant spider sculpture that’ll either fascinate you or haunt your dreams. The Sculpture Garden is a quirky, green oasis among the concrete, with each season offering a new backdrop for your photos. Frozen fountain in winter? Check. Lush greenery in summer? Double check.
National Geographic Museum: Get ready to capture some Nat Geo-worthy shots of… well, other Nat Geo-worthy shots. It’s meta, we know. The museum offers stunning photography exhibits that will inspire your next adventure or, at the very least, your next daring photo expedition to the backyard.
National Museum of African American History and Culture: A strikingly designed museum brimming with powerful stories and vibrant cultures. It’s not just about capturing images here; it’s about capturing emotions and the resilience of the human spirit. You’ll leave with photos that are as thought-provoking as they are beautiful.
National Museum of Natural History: Dinosaurs, gems, and mummies, oh my! It’s like photographing your way through every adventure movie ever. Just keep an eye on that T-Rex skeleton; we’ve heard it photobombs.
Phillips Collection Museum: Want to show off your sophisticated side? The Phillips Collection is your jam. As America’s first museum of modern art, it offers intimate encounters with impressive masterpieces. It’s the art history class you wish you’d paid attention to, camera in hand.
Renwick Gallery: Ever wanted to take photos that scream, I’m artsy and quirky? The Renwick Gallery’s contemporary craft and decorative art pieces are your perfect subjects.
Spy Museum: Ever wanted to live out your James Bond fantasies minus the life-threatening danger and high-tech gadgets? Well, at the Spy Museum, you can pretend to be 007 with none of the risk but all of the intrigue. Plus, it's the perfect spot to get those moody, cloak-and-dagger shots that'll make your Instagram followers think you've switched careers.
Food & Drink:
TIME For the FOOOOOOOOOODDD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Baked and Wired Cupcakes: This place doesn't mess around when it comes to cupcakes. They’re so good that even your camera will try to take a bite. Joking! But honestly, snapping a pic of these beauties might be the closest you'll get to capturing actual happiness. So, prepare your best cupcake glamour shots.
Ben's Chili Bowl: Ah, Ben's Chili Bowl - where the chili is hotter than D.C. in July, and the vibes are as chill as a winter day in the capital. This is the place to capture the essence of D.C.’s culinary scene in a single frame, from the vibrant food to the equally colorful locals. It's comfort food photography at its finest.
Founding Farmers: Ever tried taking a portrait of a pancake? No? Well, at Founding Farmers, you'll want to. This place prides itself on being owned by, you guessed it, farmers. Get ready for farm-to-table shots that'll make your followers green with envy.
Georgetown Cupcakes: Because what’s a trip to D.C. without stopping by the cupcake shop that basically inspired a whole TV show? Their cupcakes are like mini models, all dressed up and ready for their photoshoot. Flash those cupcakes with your best shot – the diet starts tomorrow, right?
Good Stuff Eatery: Welcome to burger paradise! If your idea of a perfect shot involves perfectly melted cheese atop a juicy patty, look no further. This joint offers the kind of comfort food that you'll want to photograph before devouring - a true test of patience.
Red Velvet Cupcakery: Another stop for our cupcake connoisseurs. By the time you get here, you'll be a pro at the delicate art of cupcake photography. Red Velvet Cupcakery brings that rich, decadent flair to your food portfolio. Just don't forget to eat them after the shoot.
Zaytinya: Ready to add some Mediterranean flair to your photo collection? Zaytinya offers not only a feast for your taste buds but also a feast for your eyes. The colorful dishes here are like painting a picture that's too pretty to eat...almost. ---
Nature & Parks: AKA, Where Trees Slay and Flowers Slay
Georgetown Waterfront Park: Yes, it’s in Georgetown, so after you’re done taking photos, you can shop until you drop or just people-watch folks who dress way better than us. This spot gives you those watery views without having to deal with the whole actually being on a boat thing. Capture those dreamy sunsets, or if you’re a morning person (weirdo), the sunrise over the Potomac.
Potomac River at Great Falls: Water You Waiting For? Grab your wide-angle lens and let’s get nautical. The Potomac River at sunrise or sunset is like that one friend who knows all their good angles – photogenic without even trying. Whether you’re on a boat, a paddleboard, or firmly on dry land, the views are 10/10. Just don’t drop your camera in the water. That’s an instant mood killer.
Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens: Ever wanted to photograph flowers so exotic you can’t pronounce their names? This is your spot. The water lilies and lotuses here aren’t shy, and they’re ready for their close-up, Mr. DeMille. Come during the early morning to avoid the crowds and to catch that soft, flattering light.
Meridian Hill Park: It’s in Columbia Heights and is basically an Italian aristocrat's backyard. If your camera craves symmetry and grandeur, and you've dreamed of cascading water without leaving the city, bring your lens here. They have drum circles on Sundays too, because why not?
Rock Creek Park : It is like nature decided to smack-dab plop itself in the middle of urban sprawl. This is where trees are the celebrities, and your camera gets to be the paparazzi. Want to shoot some deer, but with your camera, not in a creepy way? This is your place.
Roosevelt Island: Teddy Roosevelt was a rough rider, but his island is a smooth shooter. Roosevelt Island gives you wilderness vibes without having to actually venture into the wild. It's like nature, but contained, with trails leading to spots that are begging to be Instagrammed. Capture the marshlands, the wildlife, and yes, there's a statue of Teddy himself.
US Botanic Garden: Lastly, but not leastly, the [US Botanic Garden]([LINK]). Inside, it's a plant-packed paradise where you can photograph everything from deserts to jungles without leaving the room. It's basically like being in Honey, I Shrunk The Kids, but with plants. Want a picture with a corpse flower? Check their schedule; those stinkers bloom on their own time.
Ready to transform your Instagram from a graveyard of forgotten brunches into a gallery of awe-inspiring shots? Washington D.C. isn’t just for the politics nerds or those too obsessed with Frank Underwood’s escapades. It’s a haven for those of us who speak in f-stops and ISOs. Let’s dive into the spots that’ll make your camera’s heart flutter.
The Monuments: Not Your Average History Class Night tour of the monuments? More like a surreal adventure that even Spielberg can’t conjure up. Imagine the Lincoln Memorial bathed in the moonlight or the ghostly shadows dancing around the World War II Memorial. No filter needed, folks. This is raw beauty at its finest.
Eastern Market: A Sunday Funday for Your Lens Go on a Sunday, or forever hold your peace. Eastern Market isn’t just a feast for the belly (though, we recommend coming hungry); it’s a visual banquet too. From vibrant fruit stalls to quirky artisan crafts, your camera won’t know where to start. And, the street performers? Chef’s kiss!
9:30 Club: Where ISO Meets EDM If your camera thinks it’s seen it all, challenge accepted. The 9:30 Club is where the shutter speed hits the fan. Think pulsating lights, ecstatic crowds, and energy that makes Red Bull look like a snooze fest. It’s the test your low-light photography skills deserve.
Bluejacket Brewery: Because Beer Looks Good on Camera, Too Don’t let anyone tell you photographing your drink is passé. Bluejacket Brewery isn’t just about the hoppy goodness; it’s about capturing that perfect beer foam art. Plus, industrial chic vibes for days. Who said happy hour can’t be golden hour?
Heist: Snap the Night Away A club where your camera won’t feel out of place among the glitz and the glam. Heist is your playground for playing with light, capturing expressions, and immortalizing dance moves that should probably be forgotten. Pro tip: Beware of photo bombers. They're rife in the wild nightlife.
Kennedy Center: The Grand Finale Finish your photographic symphony at the Kennedy Center. The architecture alone is worth a thousand snaps, not to mention the golden hour views from the terrace. If you can catch a performance, even better. It’s culture with a capital ‘C’ and photography with a capital ‘P’.
Wrapping It Up Before Your Battery Dies… And there you have it, folks – a whistle-stop tour of Washington D.C. through the lens of those who live and breathe megapixels. Remember, the city’s beauty isn’t just in its landmarks, but in capturing moments that make you pause, wonder, and maybe even laugh. So, keep those cameras charged, lenses polished, and humor at the ready. D.C. is waiting for its close-up, and you’re the director of this photogenic escapade. Happy snapping!