Have you ever run out of location ideas in DC and felt overwhelmed by all the rules about photo permits?

Yup, I’ve been there.

Let me take you back to the time I was asked to leave the National Arboretum mid-shoot—because I didn’t know they required a photography permit. 😅 I was so excited to capture my client’s portrait in that dreamy garden... but instead, I ended up packing my gear and walking out awkwardly.

After that, I made it my mission to find places in and around DC where I can shoot without needing a permit—and without getting the side-eye from park staff.

So here are a few of my go-to hidden gems where you can create beautiful content (portraits, fashion, lifestyle, even branding) without the headache of permits:

Woman in floral print top and gold necklace poses against lush green foliage in outdoor portrait setting.
A person in black attire poses on driftwood at a sandy beach with lush greenery in the background.

1. Fort Foote Park

📍8915 Fort Foote Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744

Just a short drive from DC and about a 10-minute walk from the parking lot, you’ll find this peaceful park with logs, sand, and open space. The view of the MGM across the Potomac River is such a vibe—especially during golden hour.

I’ve used this spot for a swimsuit photoshoot, and we had the place to ourselves on a weekday. No crowds, no staff interference. It’s now my secret escape for relaxed outdoor sessions.

📝 Tip: Bring bug spray and some water if you’re going in the summer! It’s a mini hike in.

A person in a leopard print bikini and black jacket poses on a sandy beach with water and sailboats in the background.
A person in a vibrant multicolored swimsuit poses against rocky terrain at a beach or riverside location.
Woman in plaid bikini and white sunglasses poses on sandy rocks at beach.
Person in a brown swimsuit poses thoughtfully on a rock at the edge of a serene lake on a summer day.
Person wearing purple bikini holding sheer fabric while standing in shallow calm water at beach during overcast day.
Woman in brown plaid swimwear stands confidently by a lakeside with jet ski visible in background.
Model poses in plaid bikini on natural rock formation with blurred foliage background in outdoor photoshoot setting.
swimsuit photoshoot
Bohemian macrame swimsuit cover-up with long fringe detail photographed in natural outdoor setting.

2. East Potomac Park Maintenance Area

📍1000 Ohio Drive SW, National Mall and Memorial Parks

Cherry Blossom season is breathtaking—but it’s chaos around the Tidal Basin with traffic, no parking, and thousands of tourists. This hidden section near the Maintenance Facility gives you the blossoms without the crowd.

It’s right by the water and much quieter. You won’t have to worry about strangers walking through your frame every two seconds, and it saves a lot of time on editing out background distractions.

📝 Tip: Aim for a sunrise shoot here. It’s peaceful and the light is magical.

Airplane silhouette flies over cherry blossom trees at dusk along a curved path.
Someone in denim lies in grass with their Bernese Mountain Dog under blooming cherry blossom trees in spring.

3. US Capitol + Botanical Garden Area

📍Washington, DC 20004

🚇 Nearest Metro: Capitol South

Want iconic architecture and a touch of nature? Start at the US Capitol, walk by the Library of Congress, then head down to Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens.

This area is full of DC flavor—great for branding, editorial, or even graduation photos. I like parking near Eastern Market or at the Botanical Garden lot (if it’s open) and just strolling around with my camera in hand. There’s always something worth capturing.

📝 Tip: It’s federal property, but for small-scale shoots without lighting setups or tripods, you’re usually good to go. Just stay mobile and respectful.

Someone in a knit top and dark skirt sits casually on a concrete ledge outdoors on a sunny day.
Two visitors enjoy the vibrant pink crepe myrtle blooms near the US Capitol dome on a summer day in Washington DC.
Portrait in a garden shows a happy expression while reaching out to touch yellow wildflowers against a blurred green background.
A couple poses together on a sunny day in front of the United States Capitol building in Washington DC.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a quick solo shoot or a full session with a client, these spots save you the stress of researching permits. And more importantly—they let you focus on the creativity.

DC has so many beautiful corners beyond the tourist traps. Explore, experiment, and don’t be afraid to make it personal.

📷✨ Let me know if you check out any of these places or have a secret location of your own—I’d love to hear it!

Get in touch


Check out some of my lifestyle projects here. I have a variety of packages available depending on the project requirements. Feel free to drop me an email at contact@throughjumslens.com. I will be happy to discuss your particular situation.