If you’re dreaming of a romantic engagement session in Washington, DC during the Cherry Blossom Festival, you’re not alone! Every year, in late March and early April, thousands of visitors flock to the Tidal Basin to witness the breathtaking cherry blossoms in full bloom. It’s one of the most picturesque times of the year for couples looking to capture their love story. But if you’re planning a session, there are a few things you should know before diving in!
Cherry Blossom Engagement Session Tips: How to Plan for the Best Experience
1. Arrive Well Before Sunrise
If you think you’ll have the Tidal Basin all to yourself for a peaceful sunrise session, think again! Tim and Kathy (the beloved military couple you see pictured in these engagement session photographs) and I arrived an hour before sunrise—and it was already packed. Every year, people from all over the world come to see the cherry blossoms, and prime spots fill up quickly.
✅ Recommendation: Plan to arrive at least 90 minutes to 2 hours before sunrise to get the best positioning and to allow time for parking (or lack thereof—more on that below). The earlier you arrive, the better your chances you have of finding parking, but be warned, people take seeing the Cherry Blossoms seriously. For some people, especially those that come from overseas, it’s a once in a life time opportunity. So by sunrise, the area WILL be packed.
2. Parking is a Nightmare – Consider Alternative Options
The reality is, parking around the Tidal Basin is extremely limited. Even arriving an hour before sunrise, every lot was already full. If you’re planning an engagement session, you’ll want a backup plan!
🚗 Best Parking & Transportation Options:
- Arrive at least 90 minutes before sunrise and try for a spot in the official parking lots around the Tidal Basin, but your best bet is typically going to be street parking.
- Consider parking elsewhere in the city and using Uber or a rideshare service to get dropped off nearby.
- Take the Metro to the Smithsonian or L’Enfant Plaza stops and walk to the Tidal Basin.
- If all else fails—pray for a miracle and bring a lot of patience! 😆
3. Expect Crowds (But You Can Work Around Them!)
If you’re hoping for a private cherry blossom engagement session, it’s not going to happen—at least, not at the Tidal Basin. There will be thousands of people wandering around, taking selfies, and staking out spots for their own photos. But don’t let that discourage you!
📸 Photography Tip: While it’s nearly impossible to avoid crowds entirely, strategic positioning, angles, and lens choices can help minimize people in the background. As you’ll see in my photos of Tim and Kathy, I was able to make it work—but in some shots, you’ll still see the crowd in the distance.
4. Venture Beyond the Tidal Basin for Hidden Cherry Blossom Spots
While the Tidal Basin is the most iconic location, it’s not the only place to find cherry blossoms! In fact, some of the best and most secluded blossoms can be found just a short walk away.
🌸 Hidden Cherry Blossom Locations:
- West Potomac Park: Just beyond the main Tidal Basin area, this park has gorgeous cherry blossoms that are often overlooked.
- Hains Point: Located a bit further away, but still within the National Mall area, this spot offers beautiful trees with fewer tourists.
- Side Streets & Lesser-Known Trails: Many small pockets of cherry blossoms are scattered throughout DC. During Tim and Kathy’s session, I took them off the main path and found gorgeous trees that no one else was paying attention to!
Pro Tip: Start at the Tidal Basin for a few classic shots, but then move away to get a more intimate, unique feel for your engagement session.
Why Choose Washington, DC for Your Engagement or Wedding?
Washington, DC is filled with historic landmarks, iconic views, and stunning seasonal beauty, making it the perfect location for couples who want a mix of romance and adventure in their photos.
- Cherry Blossom Festival: The dreamiest time of year for soft pink floral backdrops.
- Monument Engagement Sessions: Stunning portraits in front of the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and the Capitol Building.
- Iconic DC Weddings: Whether you elope in the heart of the city or plan a classic DC wedding, you’re guaranteed elegant, timeless imagery.
Ready to Plan Your Cherry Blossom Engagement Session? Let’s Do It!
If you’re recently engaged and dreaming of a romantic engagement session during DC’s Cherry Blossom Festival, let’s make it happen! Whether you want Tidal Basin portraits at sunrise or hidden gem locations for a more private feel, I’d love to capture your love story in the most breathtaking way.
📩 Reach out today to book your Washington, DC engagement session or wedding photography! Let’s create something unforgettable together.
xoxo,
Victoria V
