Welcome to the ultimate guide for capturing unforgettable summer memories with your loved ones in the Washington, DC area! As the warm breeze and sunshine beckon us outdoors, it’s the perfect time to schedule a family photoshoot against some of the most breathtaking backdrops this region has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil flow of local creeks, the sandy shores of nearby beaches, or the vibrant blooms of lavender and sunflower fields, we’ve curated a list of ten picture-perfect locations to inspire your next session.
Local Creeks
Enjoy the serene beauty of Bluemont Creek (left) or Gulf Branch Nature Center (right, and more here!) for a refreshing backdrop. Let the gentle flow of water add a natural charm to your family portraits.
Pros: fun way to keep kids engaged; great way to cool off a bit during a summer session
Cons: you could get wet; not great for kids under 2 as rocks could be slippery
Best Time for Photos: first thing in the morning or late afternoon/early evening
Beach
Dive into summer vibes with beach sessions! Embrace the abundance of waterways like the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay for endless coastal inspiration. Check out a full Patuxent Reiver session here!
Pros: fun way to keep kids engaged; great way to cool off a bit during a summer session; typically experience really beautiful sunset skies at the beach; opportunity for a range of activities: sandcastle building, shell collecting, splashing, running, etc.
Cons: you will likely get wet; will likely require a bit of a drive from the NOVA/DC area
Best Time for Photos: Sunrise or sunset, as there isn’t much shade to diffuse the harsher light of midday
Docks, Marinas, Sailboats
Sail away to picturesque scenes at the docks or marinas, or even aboard a sailboat if you’re feeling adventurous! Psst… Annapolis sessions are always filled with nautical charm.
Pros: a super unique backdrop, especially if you’re a boating family or a family who loves being on the water; great option for Maryland families near Annapolis or the Eastern Shore!
Cons: not a good idea for kids who cannot swim; will likely require a bit of a drive from the NOVA/DC area
Best Time for Photos: Before 10AM or after 4PM
Sky Meadows State Park
Capture the essence of nature amidst the stunning landscapes of Sky Meadows State Park. This is my favorite recommendation for wide open spaces. While the park does not require us to obtain a permit, you will have to pay an entrance fee.
Pros: No crowds; unobstructed views with stunning sunrises and sunsets
Cons: 1+ hour drive from the Northern Virginia/DC area; for the best light you may need to mess with the kiddos bedtime or wake time
Best Time for Photos: Sunrise or Sunset, as there isn’t much shade to diffuse the harsher light of midday
Your Home
Create memories in the comfort of your own space! Opt for a cozy atmosphere and eliminate travel hassle for relaxed and genuine family moments. (I share more on why I love at-home lifestyle session here.)
Pros: you don’t have to travel; you’ll always have air conditioning; everyone will feel more comfortable in a familiar setting which leads to better photos; you’re inherently injecting personality into the photos by having the backdrop be YOUR space; ready access to snacks/water, stuffies, games, etc.
Cons: flexibility is required as we can’t shoot on a super cloudy or rainy day due to lack of natural light
Best Time for Photos: between 10AM and 3PM
Seven Oaks Lavender Farm
Immerse yourself in fields of fragrant lavender, blooming in June at Seven Oaks. Let the vibrant purple hues add a touch of magic to your summer portraits. There is a permit required for this locaiton.
Pros: a super unique backdrop for the DC area; typically no crowds
Cons: 1+ hour drive from the Northern Virginia/DC area; for the best light you may need to mess with the kiddos bedtime or wake time; flexibility required based on peak bloom
Best Time for Photos: Sunrise or Sunset, as there isn’t much shade to diffuse the harsher light of midday
Wollam Gardens
Embrace the beauty of summer blooms at local wildflower farm Wollam Gardens. Revel in the array of colors and textures that June, July, or August have to offer. A permit is required for this location.
Pros: a super unique backdrop for the DC area; typically no crowds
Cons: 1+ hour drive from the Northern Virginia/DC area; flexibility required based on various peak blooms
Best Time for Photos: Before 10AM or after 4PM
Burnside Farm Sunflowers
Bask in the golden glow of summer amidst sunflower fields, particularly highlighted at Burnside Farms during July and August. Let the cheerful blooms bring warmth and joy to your photoshoot. Psst… They also grow tulips in spring! A permit is required for this location.
Pros: a super unique backdrop for the DC area
Cons: 1+ hour drive from the Northern Virginia/DC area; flexibility required based on peak bloom; might be crowded on evenings/weekends
Best Time for Photos: Before 10AM or after 4PM
Bon Air Park Rose Garden
Delight in the timeless elegance of rose gardens, blooming in June at Bon Air Park Rose Garden.
Pros: a super unique backdrop for the DC area
Cons: Might be crowded on evenings and weekends
Best Time for Photos: Before 10AM or after 4PM
Your Pool
Make a splash with poolside sessions at home. Enjoy the privacy and freedom to capture playful moments as a family.
Pros: a fun + unique setting for your family, a way to cool off during a summer session, a great way to keep kids engaged and entertained
Cons: You need a pool to make this happen! I do not recommend a public pool for this.
Best Time for Photos: Between 8AM-11AM or 3PM-6PM
I hope this guide has ignited your imagination and sparked a newfound excitement for capturing beautiful moments with your family. From the serene tranquility of creekside reflections to the golden glow of sunflower fields at sunset, the possibilities for creating cherished memories are endless in the DC area. Whether you choose to embrace the familiar comforts of home or embark on an adventure to discover hidden gems, I encourage you to seize the opportunity to freeze time and cherish these fleeting moments forever.
If you’re looking for more family session location ideas & tips, check out these other posts!
Interested in booking a summer family session with Mary Catherine Photography? I’d love to talk with you more to see if we’d be a good fit. Let’s chat!
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