As we enter the month of February, those of us living in Washington DC begin to anticipate one of the most wonderful times of year – cherry blossom season! From late March to mid-April, our city becomes a veritable wonderland of pink and white blooms. And to make things even better, an incredible three-week cultural festival is held throughout DC that celebrates this magical time!

Although the National Cherry Blossom Festival is a popular event, I would not recommend going to the Tidal Basin to see the cherry blossoms. The large crowds can be overwhelming and take away from the relaxation that this experience should offer. Instead, I’m sharing six of my favourite locations around Washington DC that will provide better photo opportunities and a more enjoyable experience.

National Arboretum

If you’re looking for a breathtaking place to see cherry blossoms in Washington DC, the National Arboretum is definitely worth a visit! With its stunning views and large size, it’s no wonder this spot is one of the city’s most popular places to view cherry blossoms. However, what makes the National Arboretum even more special is that the cherry blossoms here often peak at a different time than those at the Tidal Basin. So if you’re looking for an extended period to enjoy these beautiful blooms, this is definitely the place to be!

The Gardens of Dumbarton Oaks

The Dumbarton Oaks estate is a beautiful historic property located in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington, DC. The gardens on the 10-acre property are simply stunning, and there is so much to see and explore. During cherry blossom season, these stunning gardens are packed with beautiful pink and white blossoms making it a wonderful spring photography spot.

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither was the Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. This gargantuan Catholic church is located in the Brookland neighborhood and took over 40 years to complete. It’s home to more than 150 cherry trees that come alive during the early spring months, making it a popular spot for photographers. If you’re looking to spend a day exploring beautiful architecture and stunning scenery, the Basilica is a must-see.

The Smithsonian Enid Haupt Garden

The Enid Haupt Garden is an oasis in the heart of Washington, D.C. The 4.2-acre garden sits adjacent to the Smithsonian Institute and features beautiful Victorian gardens that are reminiscent of the late 19th century. During cherry blossom season, the grounds are overflowing with pretty pink blossoms, making it a must-see destination for tourists and locals alike.

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

The MLK Memorial is a beautiful spot to take pictures, with tons of tall cherry blossom trees lining the grassy path. The DC War Memorial is to the left and is a stunning sight. This is one of my favorite places for portraits, along with the Jefferson Memorial.

Wherever you choose to visit, take some time to explore your surroundings and find a beautiful flowering tree. Once you’ve found the perfect spot, frame your shot with different monuments in the background. Get creative with your angles and use a shallow depth of field to blur the background and make the blossoms stand out. This will add dimension and focus to your photo. You can also switch it up and make the monument the focal point instead. Either way, you’re sure to capture a stunning image!

If you’re looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience, I highly recommend visiting Washington DC during cherry blossom season! There’s nothing quite like seeing thousands of blossoms in bloom, and it makes for an incredible backdrop for any photoshoot. If you’re interested in scheduling a Washington DC photoshoot with me, head over to my contact page and get in touch!

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6 Spots for Snapping DC Cherry Blossom Photos