Visitors flock to DC every spring to see the cherry blossoms. Among the most spectacular trees in all the world, the Yoshino Cherry Tree bursts with blooms along the Potomac River bringing a delicate almond-like scent to the atmosphere. While dozens of cherry varieties fill the parks and gardens with their own unique perfume. The colors on display, the profusion of blossoms and the sheer number of trees, makes the time you spend on your cherry blossom engagement photos in DC a world-class experience. If you have your heart set on getting these iconic photos to celebrate your engagement, read on and find insider advice on timing, locations, and permits based on over a decade of my experience working with soon-to-be-married couples.
Time of Year
There is a three to four-week window for cherry blossom engagement photos in DC that can happen anywhere in a 8-week time span from the beginning of March to the end of April. Getting the timing right is everything, so booking your session for the middle of those months will generally work well. That said, you still have to be flexible with bloom times as the weather can be unpredictable. Spring showers, strong winds, or freezing temperatures can disrupt your shoot, so I suggest being ready to reschedule when there is inclement weather. If you leave enough time, and have the right luck, you’ll get pictures you’ll be excited to share and show off.
To keep up to date on the timing, check out the links below in early spring to get the latest reports.
What if you miss the window?
The Kwanzan Cherry Tree blooms a couple of weeks after the Yoshino and is absolutely gorgeous. Plus the places where it blooms are less crowded than those most frequented by tourists at the height of cherry season.
Time of Day
As one of the most popular places on earth during early Spring, the Tidal Basin, where most cherry blossom photos in DC are taken, is full of people from all over the world. If you want photos that don’t show people in the background there is only one time to get them during peak season, and that is sunrise on a weekday. If you are getting your hair or make-up done, finding someone that can get you out the door somewhere in the range of 5:30 or 6AM can be a challenge. Luckily I work with several artists in the area and can help you find someone if you book far enough in advance.
If morning is out for you, I recommend planning for cherry blossoms that are not at the Tidal Basin. Afternoons on the Tidal Basin during peak bloom (weekday or weekend) are absolutely mobbed with people. The good news is that you can find cherry blossoms all over the DMV.
Locations
By far and away the most popular for cherry blossom engagement photos in DC, the Tidal Basin is a 107 acre park with a 2.1 mile walking loop. To have your photos taken on the Tidal Basin you need a permit. Procopio will do all of the leg work to acquire the permit for you. All you need to do is pick either the Jefferson Memorial or the Lincoln Memorial as your “permit location” and the National Park Service (NPS) will allow us to also photograph on the Tidal Basin. Photography permits through the National Park Service as of 2024 for an engagement session costs $130. This permit allows us to photograph you and your significant other at one of the monuments as well as the whole basin loop among the roughly 3,750 cherry trees. For up to date information on permits you can visit the National Park Service website.
Haines Point Trail, also known as East Potomac Park, is another great location with Yoshino and Kwanzan cherry trees. If you miss peak bloom of the Yoshino cherry trees, you can catch the Kwanzan trees at peak bloom week or two after the Yoshinos bloom. The first or second week of April is typically Yoshino peak bloom, then the following 7-10 days is when the Kwanzans peak. If it is a cold spring season, you may even catch Kwanzan peak bloom at the end of April. If you’ve never seen the Kwanzan blossoms you will be amazed at their deep pink color and profusion. They also have this spherical pattern as the blossoms cluster into giant globes. The 4.1 mile trail has beautiful views of the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers, as well as the Washington Channel. Haines Point, similar to the Tidal Basin, is run by the National Park Service (NPS), so it also requires a permit.
A bit off the beaten path, but worth the trip, The National Arboretum lies 20 to 30 minutes by car from downtown D.C. With more than 70 kinds of cherry trees blooming within its 446 acres, it has 3 kinds that are only found there. With views of the The Anacostia River and a wide open feeling, this is a stunning place for cherry blossom engagement photos in D.C. and a great place to get away from the maddening crowds. Check out their mobile app to find easy ways around the park and all the info you need on permitting. As of 2024, permits cost $30 an hour for professional photography.
While there are less visitors to the Arboretum than the Tidal Basin, one thing to note is their limited hours of operation. They are only open 8am-5pm (7 days a week) which means we won’t catch the best light outside at the Arboretum. The best light for any photoshoot is up to 3 hours after sunrise or up to 3 hours before sunset. Depending on when peak bloom is predicted this year, that prediction will then determine the sunrise and sunset times for your session. Regardless of when in March or April peak bloom falls, the Arboretum hours open too late and close too early to catch the best light outside. So what does all of that mean? It means we can make it work, we can make any kind of lighting situation work, but it is not optimal for photos.
Kenwood Neighborhood in Bethesda, Maryland
About 30 minutes from the Tidal Basin, the neighborhood of Kenwood is lined with over 1,200 cherry trees that bloom just a few days later than those by D.C. most famous monuments. Gorgeous homes and lazy walkways make up this suburban area that takes on a pink hue throughout the blooming season. There is no parking available, but the area can be accessed by parking at the park-n-ride and walking a ½ mile trail. No permits necessary as long as you don’t block sideways or thoroughfares.
Old Town Alexandria, Founders Park
Surprisingly you can find a decent amount of cherry trees in Old Town Alexandria. Founders Park has the largest cluster but you can find more along the water going south from Founders Park and also throughout the historic row homes you may see single cherry trees or even clusters in people’s yards.
In addition to the locations listed above, there are numerous secret spots sprinkled throughout DC neighborhoods and along river paths. Secure your date now and let me help you find the ideal spot for epic photos of the two of you.
For in-depth information on engagement photos in D.C throughout the seasons, check out my blog, Best DC Engagement Photo Locations.
When you are ready for a trip to the fairyland of spring flowers in a city filled with extraordinary art, history and cuisine, contact me. I would love to help you plan your cherry blossom engagement photos in DC for maximum fun without any hassles.
