Photo Shoot Locations for Rent in Washington, DC

Photo Shoot Locations Rental Guide

First, let’s go through some tips for the best outdoor shoots, and then we’ll talk about the locations! After all, this is why you’re here!

Pick the right time 

Professional photographers know that nothing beats the magic hours when it comes to the best outdoor shots. Make sure to plan your session during the early hours of the morning or at sunset for that surreal touch. You may also want to consider overcast days when you won’t have to deal with an unwanted glare that will cause your model to squint. Thanks to the diffused lighting, cloudy days are great for a cleaner and more natural finish.

Invest in a makeup artist

We get that you’re a photography genius, but you may not have all the skills required for the perfect shot. The best captures are not only about your talent, they also require the extra touch of a makeup artist. The right makeup and hairstyle can totally change how your model looks and feels during the photo shoot. It’s important to make them feel and look like a pro, especially if you're working on a fashion editorial! 

Capture many photos

Take advantage of the fact that you no longer need to pack hundreds of rolls of film when on a shoot. Professional photographers can now take many photographs from different angles and lights to make the subject look its best. Shoot to your heart’s content and don’t hesitate to try some new angles or poses. Keep in mind that you will be selecting only the best shots out of thousands. So make sure to capture the best of Washington in your photos!

Take your time to post-process

We all know the secret to those glossy Vogue covers: post-processing. While you may have a picturesque location and the most talented models at hand, you’ll still need to invest time in post-production. This means upgrading your shots using Photoshop or learning how to retouch your photos. It’s better to shoot RAW, to bring out the full potential of the capture and edit later using editing apps. New at it? Try free photo editing apps such as Gimp.

Gardens and parks

D.C. is known for its architectural wonders, but  if you had the chance to explore the city, you would quickly realize that this place has much to offer in terms of green spaces. At first glance, it’s best to hire a garden as a photo shoot location, you can go to a restaurant garden or a patio for an urban feel, which would also give you the opportunity to shoot indoors as well in case the weather is not your side. Planning to host a photoshoot in your backyard? Think again. Your elegant little garden might not be enough to prove your skills, particularly if it’s not manicured. In addition to that, hiring a garden makes it easier for you to have a flawless backdrop with minimal work on your part. You simply have to get to the venue on time and not worry about setting up the decor or the right mood. You may even hire a garden with a pool if you need to capture that D.C. summer vibe! Feel free to go bigger and plan your photo shoot in the famous parks of the capital. Don’t know how to proceed? Simply go for a stroll around Rock Creek Park, the U.S. Botanic Garden, or the National Arboretum to find the perfect photo shoot location for your gig. It’s essential to get a permit from the authorities if you’re planning to film as well. We suggest planning photo shoots in the early hours to avoid crowds in the parks. Among other parks worth considering are Georgetown Waterfront Park, Yards Park, and Dumbarton Oaks.

Funky places

D.C.’s walls are bursting with beautiful artwork. You can find plenty of funky spots in D.C. that can be a perfect backdrop for your session. Whether it’s an eccentric church or The Beauty of Buzzards Point, these places are ideal for creative shots and great for advertisements as the colors will uplift anyone’s mood. We recommend renting a venue to ensure that things go smoothly and taking your session out and about if the weather’s on your side. Why not use murals as your backdrop? You’ll find the funkiest murals Downtown where you can use St. John’s Church as a photo shoot location, or the Blue Eye or Latin American Woman murals in Union Market. Don’t miss out on these WOW spots for some unique shots!

Urban cottages

These are perfect for adding a vintage feel to your photos! Such serene venues are not only excellent for working, but they’re also perfect for shooting fashion editorials, family photos, and portraits. You’ve probably come across plenty of photos that were shot in such a setting. Such backdrops add elements of the old and new to the photos, thanks to the rustic architecture and lush gardens. Plus, the brick walls, fire pits, or wooden flooring with unique decor are sure to make your photos pop. Many urban cottages are filled with pretty flowers and trees, which are great for capturing photos at the golden hour. 

Among other indoor/outdoor venues to consider are lofts, skyline restaurants, rooftop bars, private backyards, and even cafes with gardens. If you’re looking for a photo studio, you are in for a treat in D.C. Don’t know where to start from? Our smart filters make it easy for you to find the perfect photoshoot location for your budget. 

FAQs about Photo Shoot Locations in Washington, DC

What is the rental term for a studio in D.C.?

You can rent a photo studio by the hour or day. It’s always a good idea to rent the spot for an additional hour so that you don’t have to rush your photo session. Make sure to arrive at the location at least thirty minutes earlier in order to set up your equipment. 

What are some free photoshoot locations in the District of Columbia?

D.C. is brimming with picturesque and unique views that will help up your Instagram game in no time. Head to the National Mall, where you'll find stunning memorials that you can use as your background. There’s no way you could possibly take a bad picture there. The site is full of breathtaking architecture that will take your photos to the next level. Have you been to the National Gallery? Well, you’re missing out on a lot then. Take a picture of your model next to the Cobalt Rooster by artist Katharina Fritsch to add a pop of color to your plain canvas. This one’s a head-turner for sure! Get dramatic and head to the Capitol Riverfront to create a depth of perception when capturing your best shots. It’s perfect for photo shoots at sunrise or sunset.

What is the price for renting a photo studio in D.C.?

Prices can be as low as $40 per hour for a studio and go up to $1000 per day for an affordable photography studio. If you’re looking for an upscale or spacious studio, budget between $150 per hour and up to $6,000 per day. No matter what budget you choose, you can find a studio in no time in the capital! (All data according to Tagvenue.)

Can the photo shoot locations provide indoor space?

This will come at an additional cost if you haven’t rented the indoor space. Or you can simply ask for permission to use the indoor space for a couple of shots. If you’re disrupting the daily activities of the venue, such as a restaurant, they are unlikely to let you shoot indoors unless you rent out the space. In any case, you have to consult with the venue manager if you wish to use both the outdoor and indoor space.

How do I find a photo shoot location?

You can find all types of venues on online marketplaces where you can select your budget, location, and a number of attendees. You can also ask your friends for recommendations and use Instagram as a means to find some spots. You may also use Facebook to get some suggestions from your friends. Don’t forget to share your questions in some photography groups!