If you’re planning an elopement in the DMV, there are definitely benefits to taking wedding photos in DC before your nuptials.

Top 3 Benefits of doing elopement wedding photos in DC

1. Flexibility

Since it’s not an actual wedding, your elopement will be shorter, allowing you more time to take pictures around the nation’s capital. You’ll also be more relaxed in your photos without having to keep to a strict timeline.

2. Cost-effective

DC offers several beautiful locations to take photos at without cost such as the Library of Congress, the National Portrait Gallery, and other Smithsonian parks and museums. Most do not require a permit, but may require a timed-entry pass. The cost for permits that are required for the National Monuments are under $100 which is way less than the cost of a traditional wedding.

3. More choices in locations

It is not uncommon for couples to take advantage of the several historic locations and beautiful architecture that DC offers during your elopement session. A traditional wedding limits couple to only being able to take photos at one or two locations.

Wintana & Jordon’s Pre-Elopement Photos

Wintana and Jordon wanted to have professional photos taken the same day as their elopement ceremony and chose the classical and historic beauty of the Library of Congress to be the backdrop for their wedding photos in DC. We scheduled their session early in the afternoon, leaving them with plenty of time to arrive in Maryland for their small family gathering later. They are planning to host a formal wedding reception the Spring of 2025.

We started out in the Great Hall of the library to take advantage of the majestic carved columns and murals that line the walls and ceiling.

We ended their photo session outside the library which also offers stunning architecture, beautiful fountains, stairs, and views of the U.S. Capitol building across the street. The U.S. Botanical Gardens is also a short walk away.