Lincoln Memorial
Engagement Sessions in Washington, D.C.
Lincoln Memorial, Washington, DCBest Time of Year: Year-round; spring adds cherry blossoms at the nearby Tidal Basin
Ideal For: Couples who want monumental scale and a session that reads instantly as D.C.
The Lincoln Memorial is the most photographed backdrop in the city and still worth it, because scale like this cannot be faked. The colonnade gives you deep shade and hard verticals, the steps give you height and a view straight down the Reflecting Pool toward the Washington Monument, and the marble glows at sunrise. The catch is that everyone else knows all of this too, which makes it a first-light location if you want the steps to yourselves.
Gallery photography by Wornden Ly Weddings
Why Shoot Here
- A marble colonnade with deep shade and strong verticals
- Steps looking east down the Reflecting Pool
- The Washington Monument on axis behind you
- Floodlit after dark for a completely different look
- Steps from the Mall's other memorials
- Scale no smaller landmark can match
Session Tips
- Sunrise is the only reliably quiet hour — by mid-morning it is crowded
- Professional photography on the National Mall requires a permit
- Your photographer applies through National Mall and Memorial Parks, so allow lead time
- Deep colonnade shade against bright marble makes for strong contrast
- Pair the steps with the Reflecting Pool and the Mall for variety in one walk
Getting There
The memorial sits at the west end of the National Mall. Foggy Bottom and Smithsonian are the nearest Metro stations, both a walk away, and the street parking along Ohio Drive fills early. Because a permit is required for professional photography here, your photographer handles the application and will confirm the meeting point once your session is booked.
Gallery
Gallery photography by Wornden Ly Weddings
Photographers Who've Shot Here
See how a few of our photographers have captured Lincoln Memorial - each with their own style and take on the location.
More Photographers in the Area
Other vetted Washington, D.C. photographers who shoot near here - explore their profiles, or let us match you with the right fit.
Trusted by Real Couples
“From the very beginning Jeff along with his studio manager Frankie were both very good at communicating and chose the most beautiful place, Huntington Beach State Park.”
Ella & Zach
