Engagement Session at the Lincoln Memorial | Washington DC Engagement Photographer
July 24th, 2025
Joey & Dymon’s engagement session at the Lincoln Memorial was one of the most meaningful milestones in my photography journey. My wife and I had just relocated to the DMV, and as I was still learning the area, this session quickly became a reminder of why I love capturing love stories in iconic places.
Joey & Dymon chose the breathtaking Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C. for their engagement photos — one of the most romantic and historic locations on the National Mall. What many couples don’t realize is that professional photography at National Park Service locations in DC requires a paid permit. While this does slightly increase the cost of a session, it’s absolutely worth it to have your love story documented with such powerful and inspiring backdrops.
Planning the Perfect National Mall Engagement Session
I spent two full weeks preparing for Joey & Dymon’s session. During a family visit to the “Capital Fourth” fireworks celebration, I sat on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and scouted the area. I used the PhotoPills app to track sunrise angles and lighting so I could plan the most flattering and cinematic look possible.
To avoid large crowds and capture that soft golden light, I recommended we begin at 6:00 AM. Early mornings are the secret to photographing the National Mall — fewer people, dramatic skies, and the quiet beauty of Washington, DC waking up.
When the Plan Meets Reality
The session started exactly as planned… except for one thing — the humidity!
By 6 AM, the air was already heavy, and it only intensified as the morning went on. But Joey & Dymon were incredible. Their laughter, connection, and trust in the process never wavered. They followed my team’s direction with ease, allowing us to capture authentic, emotional, and timeless images — even in the heat.
A New Chapter in Washington DC
This session marked my very first engagement shoot in Washington, DC, only weeks after moving to the DMV. Standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, capturing two people in love, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be.
Joey & Dymon — thank you for trusting a “newbie” photographer in a new city (haha). You gave me the perfect start, and I’m so grateful for you both.
Here are their images from this unforgettable morning.
