A Few Things You Should Know About a Lincoln Memorial Engagement Session
The Lincoln Memorial is an iconic location and a beautiful spot for engagement/wedding photos. I've photographed many a couples at this DC monument. And while it's simple enough to have you stand in front of the marble columns or cuddle on the steps, I know what it takes to get the very best engagement photos at the Lincoln Memorial. Whether you've already booked a session at the memorial or are considering having an engagement session there, here are 5 things you should know before you go.
1.The Best Time of Day is Early Morning
Naturally, the Lincoln Memorial is a tourist attraction, so weekday afternoons and weekends are busy times.
Early morning sessions allow us to avoid crowds (and potential photobombers). Plus, there's a beautiful stillness to the area in the morning, and the sunrises are epic. That golden hour sun will give your photos a soft glow you can't get at any other time.
2. There Are Two Great Places for Photos
Of course, the Lincoln Memorial itself is one of the top spots for engagement photos. But the Reflecting Pool with views of the Washington Monument is also a great location. I particularly love how the monument's reflection softly shimmers in the pool.
3. There's Never a Bad Angle
The Lincoln Memorial provides a unique landscape and interesting architecture. And so there's never a bad angle. Close-ups, wide angles, whatever the situation, it's going to be a good one.
One thing I like about photography is that I get to show you what your moment looked and felt like from a different point of view. So you get to see and experience such an iconic DC location from in front of and behind the lens. AND you'll have some really special engagement memories to go along with that experience.
4. There's (almost) Never a Bad Season
Washington D.C. enjoys four distinct seasons. The best seasons to have an engagement session at the Lincoln Memorial are spring, summer, and fall - with spring and fall having the mildest temperatures.
Springtime brings the cherry blossom blooms, which are beautiful but difficult to time. Typically, the trees will blossom later if the temperatures remain cold in February and March. Warmer weather during those months will bring an earlier bloom.
Winter, of course, isn't an ideal time for an outdoor photo session. But it's not entirely off the table. I have photographed a winter elopement at the Reflecting Pool, but nothing was reflecting off of the water because the water was frozen over!
5. The Logistics
It's always nice to know the important logistical details before you arrive at a location. Some essential information:
The best place for parking is West Potomac Park, adjacent to the National Mall.
An elevator leading to the Lincoln Memorial chamber is located in the lower lobby of the southeast corner of the building.
There is also a restroom in the lower lobby near the elevator.
That summarizes the big five things you should know about your Lincoln Memorial engagement session. But don't hesitate to reach out with any other questions you may have or to book your photo session!
