Hi friend! My name is Jessica, I am a family and portrait photographer based in Washington Dc. I am a Christian, wife, and identical twin. I love lilacs, candles, rainy days and honesty. I love finding joy in simple things.
Here are my top tips for Spring Session in DC. It can feel daunting to maneuver through the city especially if you are visiting. I am happy to guide you every step of the way from where and when to meet and even the colors and outfits to wear. I hope you find these tips for spring sessions in DC helpful and if you have any other questions feel free to reach out to me at any time.
Choose your location. I advise my clients to choose their location first. Then everything else falls into place after this. The location sets the mood as to how you want your images to feel. Do you prefer causal (local park or at home) and fun or classic and iconic (Jefferson Memorial or Smithsonian Garden)?
Choose your time. Once you know where you will be having your photo session in DC then you will know what time is best. If you are shooting at the Reflecting Pool or Constitution Gardens, then sunrise is best. If you are meeting at the National Cathedral or the U.S. Capitol then afternoon or evening is the best lighting. Your photographer should know all this information but it’s always best to ask them.
Choose your outfits. Most times my clients tell me this is the most stressful part but it can truly be so much fun! When my clients book a session with me I send them a style guide and links for suggestions. If you are wanting beautiful spring blooms in your photos like the cherry or magnolia blossoms then I suggest light pastels like pink, blue, cream or tan.
Know where to find parking. During peak bloom in DC the parking can be very stressful. If you have a sunrise session, it won’t be as full. Rawlins Park and the DAR building are some of my favorite locations due to easy parking. I try to send my clients a pin the day before their session for parking suggestions. Taking an Uber is always a great idea as well.
Know which blooms are in season. Typically in DC the magnolias bloom first at the end of March. Then the Cherry Blossoms come the following week followed by the Kwansan blooms in April. If you aren’t able to make a spring session work the roses are stunning at the Bon Air Rose garden in Arranging during the May and June months.