Hey milspouse photographer! If you’re headed to the National Capital Region, I’m excited to introduce you to Hailey Shutze. During her family’s time at Fort Belvoir, Hailey got to know the greater Alexandria area and has some helpful tips for navigating nearby locations. Hope you find this National Capital Region Photography Spotlight helpful!

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

The Cherry Blossom Grove, Washington DC

You get incredible views of both cherry blossoms and national monuments at this location. Plus, a permit is not currently required! Parking is accessible on Constitution Ave and it’s easily walkable. This spot is far less crowded than Hains Point and the Tidal Basin. I highly recommend it!

Mustang Trail, Lorton

This spot is so versatile. I’ve used it for everything from engagement portraits to first birthday sessions. Parking is free and no permit is required. The nice open fields make for great golden hour shots.

Castle Park Beach

This is such a beautiful location, but it does require your client to have access to Fort Belvoir. When the tide is low, you get a lot of beach area to work with. The fallen logs photograph so beautifully.

Chatham Manor, Fredricksburg VA

This spot is not only gorgeous, but it is also historic. It used to be a field hospital during the Civil War and was even union headquarters for a bit. It overlooks the Rappahannock River in the back and has gorgeous gardens in the front. Perfect for everything from an intimate vow renewal (which I did myself in November 2024!!!) to a cuddly newborn session.

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

Cherry blossom season is HANDS DOWN the busiest time here! I find the Tidal Basin far too over crowded and would recommend avoiding it. Hains Point is beautiful but, parking can be difficult unless you get there at 5 am during peak bloom. Washington DC has annual races around this time of year as well, so just prepare yourself for the crowds and road closures!

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

Most places require a permit, so it’s best to just assume you need one until you research and learn otherwise. That said, I have included 4 great spots here that don’t require one!

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

Get used to crowds! This is a very populated city and you’re likely to find another photographer at a location with you!

Any other local expertise you’d like to share?

There are so many other photographers in this area and so many opportunities to connect. Take advantage of all of them! It can feel very intimidating when you come to a place like this because of how many photographers you will meet!

Also, a lot of places close at sundown, so make sure you’re scheduling your sessions with enough time before that so you don’t get kicked out of the location. No one wants that!

Where can other milspouse photographers connect with you?

Website: www.haileyshutzephotography.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/haileyshutze.photography

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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 National Capital Region photography spotlight, be sure to check out other featured location guides and tips for moving your business!