ERIN THOMPSON

Alexandria, VA Photography Spotlight with Sarah Peterson Photography

Location Guides

Hey milspouse photographer! If you’re headed to the Pentagon or another military base in the NCR, you’ll want to connect with Sarah Peterson Photography! In this Alexandria, VA Photography Spotlight, Sarah shares the local knowledge she’s learned during her family’s time stationed in the area. Plus, she’s one of the sweetest people you’ll meet, so feel free to reach out to her if you have any questions!

What are your top three favorite locations for sessions? Briefly share about each.

Jones Point Park

Jones Point Park is a lovely location almost all year round! Lots of trees, little paths that don’t require too much walking and a darling little lighthouse near the water/river.

Teenage boy sitting at Jones Point Park in Sarah Peterson Photography's Alexandria, VA Photography Spotlight
Jones Point Park, Sarah Peterson Photography



Mount Vernon Grist Mill

Mount Vernon Grist Mill is a hidden gem full of history! Since tourists do pay for tickets and tours, the Mill asks that you don’t block the sidewalks or anyone walking by. Photographing right before the Mill closes is ideal as it’s not as busy during that time.

Parents with their son at Mount Vernon Grist Mill in Sarah Peterson Photography's Alexandria, VA Photography Spotlight
Mount Vernon Grist Mill, Sarah Peterson Photography



Georgetown

Georgetown is a fun place to photograph that offers lots of variety of backdrops. From brick sidewalks to cute alleyways to water, you will have lots of options to choose from. I recommend sunrise or early morning sessions as it gets busier throughout the day.

Senior girl sitting on steps in Georgetown in Sarah Peterson Photography's Alexandria, VA Photography Spotlight
Georgetown, Sarah Peterson Photography



Are there any particularly busy seasons for photographers in this area? Any events an incoming photographer should know about?

Of course, cherry blossom season is crazy busy, but beyond that… Jones Point Park is a lovely location almost all year round, though it gets really busy during the fall months. Lots of gorgeous trees and plenty of free parking. But again in the fall, parking becomes more difficult. The lighthouse is a popular location in the park that photographers tend to seek out and can get congested. The light is great here both morning and evening, though you’ll find fewer people there in the morning.

What should an incoming photographer know about permits in this area?

None of the locations in this guide require permits, though many other locations in the area do.

What is the biggest piece of advice you’d give to an incoming photographer?

Seek out the local milspouse photographer group in our area. Lots of great advice given!

Where can other milspouse photographers connect with you?

Website: www.sarahpetersonphoto.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahpetersonphotography




Are you a milspouse photographer interested in contributing? I’d love to have your insight! Please send me an email at erin@erinthompsonphoto.com and I’ll be in touch with the details!

If you enjoyed this Alexandria, VA photography spotlight, be sure to check out other featured location guides and tips for moving your business!

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I HAVE A LITTLE SOMETHING FOR YOU!

more about me

I've been navigating military life with my family since 2008. In that time, I went from a full-time classroom teacher to an online course designer to a photographer. Actually, I still teach a little math on the side because I just love it too much!

Through it all, I've discovered how passionate I am about connecting with military families. Whether it's taking photos at a retirement ceremony, coaching a fellow milspouse photographer, or just grabbing coffee with a new squadron friend, I love this community. And as a teacher at heart, I'm excited to use this space to share what I've learned about business and life with you.

I'M ERIN.

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