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Okay, friends, Spring is officially here, and let’s be real – that means one thing: the annual cherry blossoms frenzy in Washington DC! It’s like nature decided to throw the most Instagrammable party ever, and we’re all invited. LOL
But as gorgeous as those pink blooms are, capturing them? Well, let’s just say it’s a bit like trying to find a parking spot at a Black Friday sale – chaotic but totally worth it. I’ve been there, battling the crowds and trying to keep my gear from getting splashed by over-enthusiastic tourists. So, I’m here to share my hard-earned wisdom (and a few funny stories) to help you get those killer shots without losing your sanity.
Here are my Tips in Photographing Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC. Enjoy!
Gear Talk
- You Don’t Need to Break the Bank: Though cellphone cameras can do wonders nowadays for any of your travel photography, I still consider having a good camera gear to be a better choice when photographing the annual Cherry Blossoms Festival in Washington DC. No need go crazy on the budget for a high-end camera. If you have a decent camera with manual controls that will do the trick. You want something that can handle low light, because, hello, sunrise!
If you are curious on what’s in my camera bag on this trip – here’s a list and links of camera gear I brought with me for this shoot:
- Canon EOS R5 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera
- Canon R3 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera
- Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM
- Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L is USM
- Canon Wireless Remote Control BR-E1
- GEEKOTO 77’’ Camera Tripod
- LEXAR 512GB Kinetic Plus CFexpress Type B Memory Card
Using the amazing Canon EOS R5 or similar cameras with an in-body stabilization allowed me to hand-hold my camera when shooting at slow shutter speed without depending on a tripod at certain situations.
- My ‘Oh, Crap, I’m Running on Fumes’ Moment: So, there I was, strolling around the Tidal Basin, feeling like a photography pro, capturing all those dreamy blossom shots. Then, BAM! Red light of doom on my Canon R5. Turns out, ‘feeling like a pro’ doesn’t include remembering to pack extra batteries. Yeah, I basically turned my $4,000 camera gear into a very expensive paperweight for a good hour. Thank God I was carrying my Canon R3 as a backup! Lesson learned: always treat your batteries like you treat your phone charger – essential and never to be left behind, and always have a backup plan! Learn from my mistakes!
- Relatable Tip: Don’t get overwhelmed by gear. Focus on the basics: a good camera, a versatile lens, and maybe a tripod.
Sunrise: My Love-Hate Relationship (But Mostly Love)
- The Struggle is Real: Yes, waking up at 4 AM is brutal. Especially when you’re thinking about the warm, cozy bed you left behind. But trust me, the sunrise light? It’s like a magical filter that turns everything into gold.
- My “Oh My Gosh, It’s Dark” Moment: Driving to DC from Delaware at four in the morning in the pitch dark? Not gonna lie, I questioned my life choices. But then I saw the Tidal Basin before the sun came up, and it was pure magic.
• Relatable Tip: Pack a thermos of hot coffee, and maybe a snack. You’ll thank me later.
Tidal Basin Adventures (and Where to Find the Good Stuff)
- Spot #1 Ohio Drive Bridge: The “Everyone’s Doing It” Spot: It’s popular for a reason! The panoramic view is insane. But be prepared to elbow your way through the crowd (gently, of course).
- Walkway Woes (and Wins):
Spot #2 – Cross the Ohio Drive bridge and make your way to the walkway along the Tidal Basin towards the Martin Luther King statue. Along this walkway, you will see a fantastic view of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial with the sun rising from behind! I know it could be overwhelming while shooting. But try to focus on being a little creative through the process. One good trick is to frame your shot of the memorials with the beautiful blooms around you. Don’t just take photos of the cherry blossoms but tell a story with your photos – show a sense of place while showcasing the beauty of nature.
- Spot #3 – That Jefferson Memorial view? Breathtaking. But seriously, watch your step! I saw someone almost take a dive into the water. (And yes, I held my $4,000 camera gear a little tighter after that.)
- Spot #4 – My “Hidden Gem” Discovery: The George Mason Historical Marker area? Totally underrated. Tons of blossoms and way fewer people.
- Relatable Tip: Explore! Get lost in the beauty, but keep an eye on your surroundings.
Source: Google Maps
4. Portrait Golden Hour Magic
- Golden Hour for the Win: If you’re shooting engagement, wedding or family portraits, forget sleeping in. That early morning light is your best friend.
- My “Caught a Moment” Story: I saw a couple kissing, and it was the perfect shot. It reminded me that even in the chaos, love shines through.
5. Parking (The Ultimate DC Challenge)
- The “Early Bird Gets the Spot” Reality: Seriously, if you want to park anywhere near the Tidal Basin, you need to be there before the sun.
- My “Parking Lot A Survival Guide”: It’s a battle, but it’s worth it. Bring patience, and maybe some snacks for the wait.
If you are driving to the location, then parking would be difficult. The usual street parking along the Potomac River is all blocked during the festival. So your best bet is to come early, you can save yourself a parking spot along Ohio Drive.
Directions: Pass the Jefferson Memorial on the right, then make a left on Ohio drive, and you will find parking lots A and B. Try to come before 6 am because they get full very soon! After 7 AM you have to park miles away or get dropped off by Taxi or Uber.
6. Breathe and Enjoy (Seriously)
- The “Stop and Smell the Blossoms” Moment: It’s easy to get caught up in getting the perfect shot. But remember to take a moment to just enjoy the beauty around you.
- Relatable Tip: Put your camera down for a few minutes and just soak it all in. You’ll feel better, and your photos will reflect that.
- My final thought: We are all there to see the same thing. Don’t be afraid to chat with your fellow photographers, even ask to share a shot.
Ultimately, photographing the cherry blossoms is an adventure. There will be crowds, early mornings, and maybe a few “oops” moments. But the beauty you capture? It’s totally worth it. Happy shooting, and don’t forget to share your stories!
Make sure to check our SHOP link to find Fine Art Photography Prints from my Cherry Blossoms Art Series
