Spring in Washington, DC and Northern Virginia is just beautiful. For a few short weeks, the city bursts into a stunning display of soft pinks, bright whites, and dreamy purples as magnolias, cherry blossoms, and wisteria pop!

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing your family surrounded by DC’s most iconic blooms, here’s everything you need to know about booking a Bloom Session—and some great tips for making the most of the Spring season in Washington DC and Northern Virginia!

Bloom Season in Northern Virginia & Washington DC: What to Expect

There are so many beautiful flowers that bloom across Springtime, it’s just breathtaking! Here is a general guide as to when to expect each of these beloved florals will bloom. Mark your calendars if you’re interested in a specific flower for booking your family session!

• Saucer Magnolias – Early to mid-March (Perfect for soft pink & purple tones!)
• Cherry Blossoms – Late March to mid-April (Note: The Tidal Basin is closed for construction until late spring 2026! We’ll be using alternate locations across DC.)
• Kwanzan Cherry Trees – Late April to early May (A second wave of cherry blossoms—fuller and fluffier!)
• Wisteria – April to May (Cascading purple blooms)
• Lilacs – April to May (Fluffy purple blooms)
• Peonies – May to June (Soft pops of puffy pink flowers)
• Roses – Late May to Early June (All different colors, beautiful garden scenery)

Tips for Making the Most of Bloom Season in DC

Be Flexible

Nature calls the shots! Since bloom timing can shift, having some weekday flexibility ensures the best chance at photographing your family with peak blooms.

Arrive Early

If you’re exploring Washington DC’s best bloom spots, plan to go early in the morning for fewer crowds and dreamy soft light.

Dress in Complementary Tones

Light neutrals, soft pastels, and flowy fabrics create a timeless, ethereal look against floral backdrops. Psst.. see some more advice for choosing what to wear to your family session here.

Make a Day of It

Visit Enid A. Haupt Garden, the National Arboretum, or some of DC’s other iconic spring photography locations for a full day of floral beauty.

How to Book a Bloom Session

Since bloom timing is unpredictable, booking opens about a week or two before peak bloom for each floral type. Spots fill fast, so make sure you’re on my email list to grab yours when they go live!

Join the Waitlist

Let’s capture the magic of spring together!