Photo Spots in the DMV
Tucked in the vast swaths of suburbia, Northern Virginia is home to ample picturesque spots that are perfect backdrops--and sometimes active participants--for any kind of portrait photography. What follows is a list of some of the best portrait spots in the DMV, or, at least, some of my favorites.
Occoquan
Let's just start at the top of my personal list. Occoquan is one of my absolute favorite spots for photography in all of Northern Virginia. Despite its relatively small size, it has a huge variety of locations: cute shops, a river, a grassy field, historic buildings, and a photogenic pedestrian bridge, all of which are perfect for portraits. I find new nooks and crannies for photos every time I visit Occoquan. After your session, you'll want to grab a meal at Secret Garden, Cock & Bowl, or any of the fantastic restaurants here.
Old Town Manassas
If you're looking for a similar historic old town vibe, then Old Town Manassas is another great choice. I like it for many of the same reasons I like Occoquan: in the vicinity of a few blocks, you have fun shops, good restaurants, and eye-catching buildings. Plus, you get train tracks! Everyone loves train track photos. If mid-Prince William County is convenient to you, then Old Town Manassas is a great choice.
Old Town Alexandria
Old Town Alexandria is the undisputed champion of all Northern Virginia old towns. Don't believe me? When someone says "Old Town," you know the one they're talking about. It's no secret that Old Town is perfect for photos, and for good reason: every block has something different. If you like that historic downtown vibe, then you really can’t beat Old Town. Wandering just a few blocks can result in a spectacular variety of images. It really is one of the best places for photography in Northern Virginia.
The Carlyle House
One specific recommendation in Old Town is the Carlyle House. Once home to John Carlyle, a wealthy merchant and founder of Alexandria, the house was completed in 1753 and features a beautiful garden at the rear of the property. The grounds are full of perfect backdrops for proposals, family sessions, or really any portrait photography.
Green Spring Gardens
It's nature time! If historic old towns aren't your thing, then Green Spring Gardens might pique your interest. You might not believe this, but Green Spring Gardens features some fantastic gardens. Highly recommended for its flowers, grassy fields, pond, and the ever popular Moon Gate. There is also a historic home on the property that was initially completed in 1784. It's a charming park that's perfect for outdoor portraits. As you'll see below, it's a perfect spot for a proposal and engagement photos.
Lake Fairfax
Located in Reston, Lake Fairfax features--perhaps unsurprisingly--a lake. It’s scenic. There’s trails to explore, and you can even rent a paddleboat for the aforementioned lake. I’m not necessarily recommending a paddleboat session for photos, but I have a long lens in the arsenal, so it’s definitely a possibility if you're into it! Lake Fairfax has some nice, wide open spaces, so it's perfect for family photos with energetic kids.
Burke Lake
Want another Fairfax County Lake? Let’s consider Burke Lake. It’s very similar to Lake Fairfax, in that it features a lake, trees, and other nature-y stuff. What sets Burke Lake apart (well, other than being in Burke )? It’s way bigger! There’s more green spaces and even a little train. That train is awesome; kids love it. I love it. Let's take some photos on it. The carousel is nice, too. Highly recommended location for outdoor portraits.
Neabsco Creek Boardwalk
Featuring a .625-mile wooden path over wetlands, Neabsco Creek boardwalk in Woodbridge is one of the most unique parks in all of Northern Virginia. It’s an ideal spot for gorgeous sunset photos. While I've visited plenty of times, I've yet to photograph clients here. Want to be my first subjects? Hit the contact, and I’ll take 15% off any package price in exchange for allowing me to feature your photos here.
Stribling Orchard
While it’s definitely outside what most consider Northern Virginia, Stribling Orchard is an excellent choice for a scenic fall session. Located about 25 miles west of Haymarket, Stribling is a great alternative to some of the more crowded area orchards (looking at you, Carter Mountain…). Apple picking is a perfect activity for families or couples to do while while we take photos. You’ll get a nice peek of the mountains and plenty of apple trees for your images.
See anything good?
If any of these places for photos look good to you, click the button below, or visit the contact page to set up a session. While these are some of my favorite photo spots, I shoot in a variety of other locations throughout the DMV, so I can make additional recommendations if you need them. And if you have a venue in mind, then I'm happy to meet you at the destination of your choice. I'm always up for exploring new locations, so let's chat if there's somewhere I should check out!