How to Plan a Couples Photo Session in DC: What to Expect

A couples session doesn't need a reason beyond wanting one. This one was just an excuse to play in the fall leaves.

You don't need a big occasion to book couples photos. Maybe it's your anniversary. Maybe you just started dating and want to document this version of you two. Maybe you're visiting DC together and want something more than a phone photo in front of a monument. Maybe it's just been years since you've had real photos taken of you as a couple, and you finally decided to do something about it.

Whatever the reason, if you've been thinking about booking a couples session but aren't sure how the whole thing actually works, this post walks you through exactly how to plan a couples photo session in DC, from first message to final gallery.

How Far in Advance Should You Book?

DC's best light and scenery come with a calendar of their own. Spring brings cherry blossoms and soft pastel backdrops. Fall brings the foliage everyone wants their photos in front of. Summer evenings stretch out golden hour for hours. If you have a specific season or backdrop in mind, the more you tell me about your vision, the more accurately we can bring your vision to life!

If you don't have a specific location in mind, that's completely fine too. A lot of couples reach out with general vibes in mind. We figure out the rest together!

How to Plan Your Couples Photo Session: What Happens When You Inquire

Reach out by filling out my contact form and tell me a little about what you're looking for — the occasion (if there is one), any locations or vibes you have in mind, etc. I'll get back to you and let you know if we are a good match and whether I can bring your vision alive. I will also walk you through the next steps, and once you feel like you are ready to confirm your booking with me, we will lock in a date, talk through details, and you're booked.

How We Pick a Location Together

Can you picture the Tidal Basin as your couples session's backdrop?

I won't just hand you a list and tell you to pick. We'll talk about the vibe you're going for, what feels like "you" as a couple, and depending on the time of year, I'll suggest a few spots that fit. One of my favorite suggestions is the place that already means something to you two — where you had your first date, where he proposed, the spot you always end up walking back to, etc. If you want a head start before we talk, check out my guide to the best couples photo locations in DC for ideas.

What the Session Day Actually Looks Like

This is exactly the kind of moment I mean when I say I'm giving you guidance, not a pose to hold.

Couples sessions include up to one hour of coverage, with option to lengthen the coverage depending on what you are looking for. During the hour, we definitely will not be standing in one spot the whole time. Expect a few different setups and looks within the same general area, plenty of walking and movement, and guidance from me the whole way through so you're never standing there wondering what to do with your hands.

I'll usually start with something simple to ease into it — a slow walk, a quiet conversation between the two of you — before moving into more directed moments. I like to get a mix of candids and posed photos, but if you prefer one over the other, we will prioritize that!

Most couples tell me they felt a little awkward for the first few minutes and completely forgot the camera was there by the end. My goal for every couples session is for it to feel like another fun date with your partner.

What Happens After — From Session to Gallery

You'll get a sneak peek within 3 business days, just enough to get excited. Your full gallery — fully edited, high-resolution images — is delivered within 30 days through a secure, password-protected gallery, ready to download, print, and keep. If you'd like prints, wall art, or an album of your favorites, those are available and can be ordered directly from your gallery.

What It Costs

Couples sessions start at $420. The exact price can shift slightly depending on location and any add-ons you're interested in, like prints or extra coverage time.

Where I Shoot

I'm based in the DMV and shoot couples sessions across Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia — from Bethesda, Rockville, and Silver Spring to Arlington and Alexandria, and everywhere in between. Have a more adventurous idea for where you want your photos taken? Reach out and let's talk about it!

Ready to Book?

If you've made it this far, you're probably ready to stop thinking about it and just do it. Reach out and let's get something on the calendar.

Let's Talk!

This is the kind of quiet, in-between moment I'm always watching for.