The Ultimate Guide to Booking Cherry Blossom Photos in Northern Virginia & DC

Every spring the entire Washington DC area transforms into a romantic dreamland filled with soft pink blossoms.

Cherry blossom season is short & unpredictable but incredibly magical … which is exactly why planning ahead matters.

If you’re thinking about booking cherry blossom photos in Northern Virginia or DC, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know from timing and locations to outfits and avoiding the crowds.

When Is Cherry Blossom Season in Northern Virginia & DC?

Cherry blossom season typically falls between mid-March and early April, but varies year to year depending on weather patterns and peak bloom only lasts about 7–10 days. Current 2026 predictions are showing late March for peak bloom.

It’s important to keep in mind:

• It can shift by a week earlier or later. Keep an eye on the DC Cherry Blossom Watch website for predictions.
• We often don’t know exact peak bloom dates until a few weeks prior.
• Flexibility is key.

Best Locations for Cherry Blossom Photos in Northern Virginia

While the Tidal Basin in DC is truly iconic, it’s not the only (or the best, in my opinion) option. I love locations that feel private and allow space for movement, connection, and emotion without tourists in the background. The goal is always timeless imagery, not “we survived the crowds” energy.

Things to think about for finding more quaint locations:

• Parks with blooming cherry trees
• Neighborhood blossom-lined streets
• Historic estates with garden grounds & photography permit requirements

My Top 2 Tips:

Opt for sunrise over sunset.
Your best chance at avoiding as many crowds as possible is having your photos at sunrise. Early mornings aren’t always realistic for some and that’s perfectly fine.

Keep your wardrobe simple and soft.
The cherry blossoms already bring a lot of soft pink into your images, so wardrobe plays a huge role in keeping everything cohesive and elevated. Flowy fabrics, neutral tones and natural textures always photograph beautifully. You want your outfit to complement the setting, not compete with it.

Book Mae Meadows Photography as Your Cherry Blossom Photographer

If you’re dreaming of romantic spring photos that feel timeless & relaxed, we are the perfect fit!

Spring will be here before we know it! Submit an inquiry here to start secure your session & start planning your dream photos.

Inquire here to book your own Northern Virginia, DC or Maryland Cherry Blossom photoshoot with me!