12 Cool Places To Take Pictures Near Washington D.C.

D.C. is a lot more than politics and office wear. In fact, you may be surprised at all the unique and cool places to take pictures near Washington D.C. that you’ve never even heard of before! Here are a few of our favorite D.C. photography spots.

1. A prominent Dupont sanctuary

As you look out over the D.C. cityscape, a church — just north of the White House — may catch your eye. The amazing architecture, stunning stained glass, and long history of this Dupont sanctuary make it one of the most unique and cool places to take pictures near Washington D.C. Rather than risk taking photos in a church where others could easily photobomb your perfect shot, on Peerspace you can rent an entire venue — whether it be a church, bar or art gallery — to ensure serenity during your shoot. Learn more about renting the Dupont sanctuary and other amazing photo venues on Peerspace!

2. Culture House

If you love the look of historic churches but want more of a modern vibe to your photoshoot, then look to Culture House! This amazing historic church-turned-event space is like nothing you’ve ever seen before and should be at the top of any list of cool places to take pictures near Washington, D.C. While you can take photos outside the building for free, you can also book out the entire 15,000-square-foot venue for your shoot on Peerspace, too. And we promise if you like the outside, you are going to LOVE the inside of this awesome venue! 

3. A historic U Street art studio

Uniqueness is definitely a big part of the criteria for what it takes to make our list of cool places to take pictures near Washington D.C. And this space knocks uniqueness out of the park! The historic U Street art studio features some of the most distinctive props and backdrops you’re going to find in a D.C. area studio. Djembe drums are plentiful and you can even hire a lion dancer to teach you some moves or take part in your photos!

4. National Mall

It wouldn’t be right to leave the National Mall off the list of cool places to take pictures near Washington, D.C.! While you will be far from the first to take a picture along the National Mall, that doesn’t mean you can’t find new secret spaces or totally unique angles to take photos beside America’s most famous monuments and memorials.

5. The safari room

Think beyond the prim and proper city vibes when you consider cool places to take pictures near Washington D.C.! For example, how about heading to the Safari Room at the Stu? This Peerspace bookable venue features a deep green set and a luxury black luxury set that are so much fun for a wide variety of photoshoots. The velvet throne chair, black chandelier, and jungle walls are just a few of the amazing props and amenities you’ll find in this studio.

6. The Speakeasy at Capo

For a sultry or mysterious shoot, look no further than The Speakeasy at Capo. It’s one of the hottest speakeasies in the city but you can rent it out all to yourself for the night for a photoshoot you’ll never forget. Push open the unassuming deli freezer door and welcome yourself back into the 1920s — this space is a photographer’s delight.  

7. A space that puts you among the greats

Snoop, Trump, Obama — these are just a few of the fun portraits you’ll find to pose by in this Peerspace creation studio! This studio is also perfect for anyone looking to experiment with new equipment during a shoot. You can add on extras like a camera, lighting, and various backdrops to really take your pictures to the next level. Learn more about the space and its add-ons on Peerspace!

8. Tidal Basin

As the brisk spring air sweeps through D.C., the time is ripe to visit The Tidal Basin! The cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the area provides you with sweeping views of the Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument through the flowers. There is no more magical backdrop in D.C.!

9. An all-white and totally modern gallery

One of the best ways to make yourself pop in a photoshoot is with a neutral background — like you’ll find at this all-white gallery in Cardozo! This gallery is also filled with a variety of different art pieces that provide wonderful hints of light to your white backdrop. To learn more about the space, read the five-star reviews, and browse through photos, visit this gallery’s Peerspace page. Once you’ve decided it’s the ideal spot for your shoot — you can book in a matter of clicks! 

10. Celebrate the holidays year-round

It doesn’t matter what month it is — it’s always a good time to celebrate the holidays! This fun holiday photo studio in Oxon Hill, Maryland can even come with a Santa by request. So go ahead, celebrate Christmas in the new year!

11. Dumbarton Oaks Garden

At the highest point in Georgetown sits a museum and garden like no other — Dumbarton Oaks. This beautiful property is an ideal spot for photography, learning, and enjoying nature! On the Dumbarton Oaks website, you can take a tour of the grounds to plan out where you’d like to take photographs before you visit!

12. A stunning boho chic vibe

Looking for a mix of boho brilliance and minimalist touches during your search for cool places to take pictures near Washington D.C.? Then we think you’ll love this Peerspace venue in Glassmanor! The wicker egg chair, pampas grass, weaved rug, and more lend themselves beautifully to the room’s minimalist boho vibes.

Find unique photoshoot locations in Washington, D.C. on Peerspace