Photo: Morby Photography
In a place that’s as iconic as Washington D.C., it’s hard to get a shot that doesn’t scream tourist (can we say National Monument backdrop, anyone?). Even though kitsch is fun for a photo or two, we can bet you want something a little more personalized for your big engagement photoshoot. To get photos that are as unique as you and your fiancé, head to one of these slightly less chartered destinations right in the heart of the city.
Photo: Getty Images
The National Cathedral
The working cathedral (whose full name is the Cathedral Church of Saint peter and Saint Paul in the City and Diocese of Washington) closely models other soaring structures built in the Neo-Gothic style with two towers decorated with multiple spires and protective gargoyles. Even though shots in the front of the cathedral and around its manicured gardens are popular, the best views (and photo opportunities) come from the top of the bell towers, which offer sweeping vistas of the tree speckled skyline of Wisconsin Ave. Read real brides’ reviews here!
Photo: Getty Images
Union Station
Although it’s bustling with commuters and tourists alike, the soaring, ornately decorated ceilings, floor to ceiling windows and vintage look of railway stations past greatly make up for the busy atmosphere. To avoid some of the crowds, skip morning and early evening as that’s prime rush hour. Instead, go in the middle of the afternoon or on the weekend so there’s last chances for a photobomb. Read real brides’ reviews here!
See More: Looking to Use Those Engagement Photos for Your Save-the-Date? Find Washington D.C. Wedding Stationers Here!
Photo: Courtesy of Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum via Facebook
Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum
If you and your fiancé are space and science nerds, snap your photos in the National Air and Space Museum in Vienna, Virginia. The three- floor museum is decorated with all of the astronaut helmets, vintage aircrafts (like one of the first aircrafts ever created) space ship memorabilia and contemporary and historic air traffic control towers awaiting exploration. Plus, the high factory-esque ceilings and dangling array of hanging aircraft create the perfect backdrop for couple photos.
Photo: Getty Images
Barracks Row
Barracks Row has come a long way in the past few years, but the row still has plenty of exposed brick and colorful buildings for an incredible backdrop. The five blocks that stretch south of Pennsylvania Ave now boasts hundreds of boutiques, restaurants and bars (most locally owned) with all of the exposed brick, hanging pipes, brightly painted facades and quirky street art you’d expect. For the best light and to capture the colors of the street, go at sunset.
