The Best Places for Your Engagement Session in Washington, DC 

Jordan and Alona’s Thomas Jefferson Memorial Engagement Session was everything she wanted it to be. Classic and sunny with the wind blowing slightly in her hair. She knew she wanted something in Washington, DC and the Jefferson Memorial was her ideal spot. Jordan’s idea of a his ideal engagement session was a session at home with their corgi.

We can be honest, gents — planning an engagement session usually isn’t the part you’re hyped about. You’re here because you want the photos to look good, your partner to be happy, and the whole thing to run smoothly. Plus you want to get to dinner or home and not be out all day. I get it.

Good news: DC is filled with spots that make you look put-together, intentional, and at best, decent, without you needing to panic. This is your playbook for choosing the right location, not overthinking it and looking damn good.

Also — when it’s time to pick your photographer, you already know J. Sasu Photography is here for you. No brainer.

Let’s break down the best spots.

---

1. The National Mall — The OG.

Clean and classic. Sunrise that makes you look like you own a luxury watch brand. The National Mall is the spot if you want something bold, classic, and impressive without trying. Pick between the Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials. Both are icons.

Why I like it: Straightforward, timeless, you get to sightsee at the same time.

---

2. Georgetown — Casual and Cool

Georgetown is the hip and nonchalant option in Washington, DC. Brunch, cobblestone streets, waterfront views, brick everything. You can wear a sharp outfit or keep it casual — the scenery does the work.

Why I like it: Variety. Everything looks good, lots of variety. Plus cookie shops and bakeries if you’re into that sort of thing. 

---

3. The REACH at Kennedy Center — Best View in the City

The best views from sunrise to sunset belong to The Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. Built overlooking the Potomac River and with sights into Arlington, Virginia, this location is second to none for those perfect summer sunsets or colorful fall foliage.

Why I like it: A hidden gem. Beautiful sight lines. Neutral architecture. You stand out in every photo.

---

4. U.S. National Arboretum — Nature But You’re Not Sweaty

Tall columns, massive landscapes, clean lines, open skies — the Arboretum is dramatic without feeling outdoorsy. You get space, scenery, and photos that look like a movie poster.

Why I like it: Zero crowds, tons of variety, and you can move around without feeling awkward. Great mix of classic and nature scenes. 

---

5. The Tidal Basin — Romantic Without Being Cheesy

You want DC but you want to be just a little bit different? The Tidal Basin is still iconic but provides a different sight, some water and some less crowded but just as beautiful monuments like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the DC War Memorial or the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial.

Why guys like it: Easy location, great lighting, minimal effort required and you’re still in DC. 

---

6. Locations That Are Unique To You. Everywhere and Anywhere

No two couples are exactly alike and no two love stories are identical. Locations as unique as you always will be a top recommendation. Book stores, beaches or even your kitchen where you both share your love for burying pasta in shredded cheese. Being yourselves makes for the absolute best engagement session.

Final Word 

You don’t need to overthink your engagement session. Pick a location that matches your personality— classic, modern, chill, or bold — and let DC handle the rest. 

And when it comes to photography, the choice is simple: contact me!