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Washington DC Wedding Photographers

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Washington DC Wedding Photographers

Our Washington DC photographers also provide documentary-style coverage in: District of Columbia, United States Capitol, Washington, D.C., Federal Capital City, Federal District, Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol Building, Lincoln Memorial, Reflecting Pool

Washington DC Wedding Photography, Engagement Photo Sessions + Elopements

Intimate Wedding Photography in Washington DC - Capturing the Joy of Small Celebrations - Discover the best Washington DC photographers specializing in intimate marriages. Couples are embracing the trend of smaller, more meaningful celebrations. Let our talented photographers capture the joy and intimacy of your wedding day.

By planning a simple Washington DC elopement, couples are able to stay present in the moment and fully absorb the impact of their wedding day. Given the fact that many couples feel more natural and at ease in intimate settings, it's no surprise that some of the most breathtaking wedding images come from elopements.

The WPJA has an abundance of top-ranked, Washington DC documentary wedding photographers available right now who understand that some weddings and elopements can’t wait. Find yours today!
Recent WPJA WedElope Story Awards
The bride and groom were married in a big church, surrounded by the beautiful voices of a choir, in a small yet meaningful wedding ceremony
David Pullum
The couple chose to have a small, intimate wedding by exchanging vows during a City Hall civil ceremony, with their officiant standing with them. Smiling, they held each other's hands and made promises to one another in a brief but meaningful ceremony
Wenjie Han
The newly-married bride and groom, surrounded by their closest family and friends, raised their hands in celebration after exchanging vows at the Fishing Lodge, their chosen destination for their special day.
Julie Ambos

Washington DC Photographers for Large or Small Weddings

Shooting an elopement or small Washington DC wedding event is a wedding photojournalist’s dream: a fairly open schedule with lots of breathing space for creativity – it’s just the photographer, the couple, the officiant, and perhaps a few select companions.

United States WPJA members are ready to document any secret, courthouse, civil ceremony, or elopement wedding, even if it is a Monday-Thursday ceremony. Search for the “Can Shoot Weddings on Short Notice!” message on the listings below.

32 Washington DC Wedding Photographers...

Navarre wedding photography by Matt Kolf in Spain

Matt Kolf is an international wedding photographer. Originally from Washington D.C., he was inspired to pursue art history and photography through the likes of Velaquez, Rembrandt, and Norman Rockwell. Specifically, Kolf specializes in Catholic weddings in Spain and on the...

Matt Kolf

Washington DC in District Of Columbia, US
6
3500 (USD)
Wedding, engagement and elopement photography by Natasha Lamalle

Natasha Lamalle takes a documentary approach to her photography, drawing on her fifteen years of experience as a journalist. With her keen eye and storytelling abilities, she skillfully captures the authentic and emotional moments of love.

Natasha Lamalle

Washington DC in District Of Columbia, US
15
5
75
4000 (USD)

In journalistic style, Ken Pak, a visual storyteller, freezes the most natural once-in-a-lifetime moments through his lenses, making them as beautiful as the couple remembers them.

Ken Pak

Washington DC in District Of Columbia, US
107
39
3900 (USD)
Engagement Portraits, Elopements and Wedding Photography by Anji Martin Potok's - World Photography, LLC

With a documentary approach to storytelling, Anji Martin, a visual, has been documenting life with a camera since childhood. Specializing in wedding and elopement photography, she primarily serves couples in the Washington, DC, area but is available for destination weddings.

Anji Martin

Washington in District Of Columbia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
3
25
4450 (USD)
Susannah Stevens, a DC, VA, and MD wedding photographer of Studio Lifetime Lens

Susannah Stevens, a native of Washington, D.C., holds an MA in multimedia journalism from the Corcoran College of Art & Design. She specializes in intimate weddings, micro-weddings, and elopements, offering short-notice availability to prioritize meaningful moments.

Susannah Stevens

Washington DC in District Of Columbia, US
1100 (USD)
Studio portrait of wedding and elopement photographer Erica Dietz

Employing a documentary approach, Erica Dietz weaves her storytelling abilities with a keen eye for the visual. Specializing in capturing candid moments, she brings artistry and thoughtful composition to each wedding she photographs.

Erica Dietz

Slippery Rock in Pennsylvania, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
41
2
1
4000 (USD)
Studio portrait of Brittany Diliberto, an elopement and wedding photographer | Bee Two Sweet Photography

Brittany Diliberto is an East Coast USA-based photographer capturing spectacular moments with creative, artistic, and inspirational angles. Drawing from a background in professional lighting design, Brittany imprints emotion in her work.

Brittany Diliberto

Arlington in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
163
1
105
4250 (USD)
Shaun Baker - Wedding Photographer and Couple Portrait Professional

Shaun Baker is a USA-based photographer who put down his video camera after graduating college to pursue photography; he shot his first wedding in 2009.

Shaun Baker

San Diego in California, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
92
11
2900 (USD)
Xiaoqi Li - Artistic wedding and engagement photographer

Xiaoqi Li is a destination wedding photographer who is dedicated to capturing the genuine and meaningful moments of couples' special days. With a deep appreciation for the importance of photographs in preserving memories, she aims to provide peace of mind to her...

Xiaoqi Li

Charlottesville in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
46
2
3
5
0 (USD)
Wedding photography by Michael Freas

Michael Freas is a photojournalistic wedding photographer. He puts the focus on your unique relationship, honoring all of those present. His commitment to stress-free joy, allowing couples to celebrate to the fullest, has made him one of the most reputable wedding...

Michael Freas

Asheville in North Carolina, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
64
3
26
3800 (USD)
Studio portrait of engagement, wedding and elopement photographer Scott Josuweit

USA-based wedding photographer Scott Josuweit focuses on authentically and creatively capturing important moments, uniquely treating each wedding and promoting a true experience.

Scott Josuweit

York in Pennsylvania, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
27
96
3500 (USD)
Kenneth Clapp, USA Creative Wedding Photography

With a passion for capturing moments in a journalistic style, Kenneth Clapp brings an unobtrusive approach to his work as a wedding photojournalist. He skillfully documents the emotions and moments of each couple's big day, ensuring their love story is told through...

Kenneth Clapp

Baltimore in Maryland, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
26
5
3000 (USD)
Engagement Portrait Pro, Wedding and Elopement Photographer Johnny Shryock of the WPJA

USA-based wedding photographer Johnny Shryock has been documenting incredible moments since his own brother's wedding, ten years ago. He puts couples at ease, building a connection with them that allows him to capture the special moments of their wedding day.

Johnny Shryock

Arlington in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
132
52
4250 (USD)
Megan Rei, Documentary Style Wedding Photographer

Megan Rei is a Washington metropolitan area wedding photographer with a background in dog photography. She enjoys traveling and is open to new adventures. Megan lives with her husband Neal and their dog Rui, and she strives to capture natural and candid moments in her...

Megan Rei

Bristow in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
7
2
35
4000 (USD)
Mike Kropf Wedding Photography in the USA

Mike Kropf is a native Charlottesvillian and passionate wedding photographer. Fueled by his love of camping and exploring, Mike discovered his passion for preserving memories through artful photography in the Middle East.

Mike Kropf

Charlottesville in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
4
1
3000 (USD)
Color portrait of wedding photographer Lauren Barkume

Lauren Barkume is a Washington Metro Area wedding photographer with a passion for nature, travel and joy. She has a unique photographic style, creating beautiful images with soul and story. Lauren believes in helping people feel seen and empowering them to be their true...

Lauren Barkume

Alexandria in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
4
13
4990 (USD)
Wedding, engagement and elopement photography by Anastasiia Polyakov, of So Tender Is Humanity

Wedding photographer Anastasiia Polyakov is an experienced creative based in the US for 10 years. Using her upbringing, Anastasiia celebrates human spirit and emotion with her photography. Mixing compassion and expressions, Anastasiia aims to memorialize the essence of...

Anastasiia Polyakov

Arlington in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
24
56
3500 (USD)
Lifestyle Portrait of Wedding and Elopement Photographer Morgan O'Neil

Morgan O'Neil is a skilled wedding and engagement photographer, specializing in vibrant coastal wedding photos. With 8 years of experience in capturing authentic and candid moments, Morgan also enjoys taking film photos in her free time and loves boating, skiing, and...

Morgan O'Neil

Baltimore in Maryland, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
4
1
1
4800 (USD)
Baltimore engagement wedding and elopement photography by Breanna Shaw

With a documentary style, Breanna Shaw captures love and connection in her photography, dedicating her life to sharing these moments with clients as she travels the world.

Breanna Shaw

Reisterstown in Maryland, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
2
11
3850 (USD)
Portrait of wedding and elopement photographer Sarah Sta. Ana of Santa Ana Photography

Sarah Sta Ana is a wedding photojournalist in the Washington Metropolitan Area. With a passion for storytelling, she captures raw, pure, and beautiful moments. Her background in non-profits has shaped her approach to photography, and she continually hones her skills in...

Sarah Sta Ana

Aldie in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
3
1
8
1800 (USD)
Engagement, elopement, and wedding photography by Andrew Morrell

In his journalistic style, Andrew Morrell, a visual storyteller, captures unique moments that blend art and technology, inspired by his love of music and improvisation at the weddings and elopements he photographs.

Andrew Morrell

Cleveland in Ohio, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
20
1
1
15
3600 (USD)

Pro Italian wedding photographer Marta Buso (born 1978, Venice). Skilled in reportage, portrait and wedding photography. Graduated from the University of Venice in Philosophy and worked on international co-operation projects.

Marta Buso

Venezia in Venezia, IT *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
1
3
1600 (EUR)

Kevin Quinlan, a wedding photojournalist with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fine Art/Photography, utilizes a journalistic style to capture genuine moments. With his commercial experience, including esteemed clients like The University of Delaware, he expertly documents real...

Kevin Quinlan

Newark in Delaware, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
1
5
2250 (USD)

With a documentary approach, Mary Kate McKenna, an experienced wedding photographer, competently tells the visual story of couples. Specializing in small weddings, courthouse weddings, and destination micro weddings, she captures and preserves the genuine moments that...

Mary Kate McKenna

Frederick in Maryland, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
14
2
2500 (USD)

Heather Hughes Ostermaier, a veteran Virginia wedding photojournalist, captures moments with her own style. With 8 years of experience, Heather and her husband Rob bring their expertise in photojournalism to beautifully document weddings.

Heather Hughes Ostermaier

Newport News in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
13
10
2
7
2999 (USD)
A black and white portrait of William West - A Documentary Wedding Photographer

With a documentary approach, William employs visual storytelling to create stunning and genuine wedding photographs. His professional and diverse skills, including business development, graphic design, and art, allow him to capture the essence of each unique love story in a...

William West

in New Jersey, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
7
3850 (USD)

Ryan Rayburn brings nine years of photographic journalism experience and a degree in photography to bear on capturing all the memories of couples’ special day. His considerable skill and proven track record ensure that couples’ wedding experience will be permanently...

Ryan Rayburn

Bethesda in Maryland, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
2200 (USD)
Studio portrait of Wes Shinn - owner / wedding and elopement photography studio

Wes Shinn is a wedding photographer who has served for a decade as a military photojournalist, capturing major national disasters. His skill for capturing details and stories in an impactful way translates into awe-inspiring memorials of your wedding day.

Wes Shinn

Chesapeake in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
3400 (USD)
Weddings by Ryan & Kate for elopements and marriage photography - Portrait of Ryan Howard Sigesmund

Ryan Howard Sig is a talented wedding photojournalist whose keen eye for storytelling brings an intimate and candid approach to every image he captures.

Ryan Howard Sigesmund

Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
1
3000 (USD)
Emie McGee wedding photography studio - Emie's Photo LLC

Emie McGee, a talented documentary wedding photographer from Lynchburg, VA, brings her expertise and passion for film photography to capture your special day in a unique and unforgettable way.

Emie McGee

Lynchburg in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
2
4
3200 (USD)
Portrait of Amber Lamphere, a Wedding Photographer in Richmond, VA

Amber is a highly acclaimed wedding photographer based in Richmond, Virginia. With over ten years of experience in capturing beautiful wedding moments, her work has been featured in top wedding publications. Amber specializes in weddings in the greater Virginian area and...

Amber Lamphere

Lynchburg in Virginia, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
1
4750 (USD)
Lifestyle portrait of Aira Hickman, a family & wedding photographer

Maryland-based photographer Aira Hickman, a mother and Navy veteran's wife, skillfully captures genuine moments with an organic approach. Passionate since picking up her first camera, she prioritizes authenticity, aiming to make clients feel confident and loved.

Aira Hickman

Gambrills in Maryland, US *Now booking Washington DC weddings.
880 (USD)

Map of Wedding Photojournalists Serving Washington DC Couples

Washington DC Wedding, Elopement and Engagement Images by WPJA Photographers

Below are some Washington DC wedding photography samples from the world’s best wedding photographers of the WPJA. Some of these Washington DC marriage pictures might be artistic portraits, details, or documentary-style images that have come from getting ready sessions, wedding ceremonies, reception venues, or Washington DC engagement portrait sessions with couples.

In a touching moment captured at Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Washington, D.C, the emotional groom is supported by the priest and best man during the bride's processional, creating a powerful scene in this BW wedding image.
A black and white moment captured at a wedding in Washington, D.C., with the groom giving fist bumps in the foreground as another kisses the bride's hand at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.
A candid moment at Powerhouse, Washington D.C, as the bride shares a warm embrace with the groomsmen, and hands intertwined in a tender gesture.
A beautiful bride and groom embrace in the rain, captured in a romantic scene at the National Gallery of Art East Wing on their wedding day. The soft backlight highlights their connection and love for each other.
A jubilant bride wearing red lipstick gazes at her reflection in a mirror with a red frame on her wedding day at Lincoln's Cottage in Washington DC, showcasing a moment of joy and anticipation.
A beautiful wedding couple posing in front of the DC War Memorial in Washington DC on their special day, a timeless and elegant photograph showcasing love and dedication in a historical setting.
A Washington DC wedding couple embraces in front of a vibrant rainbow wall, symbolizing beauty and love on their special day.
A serene and beautiful engagement portrait captured at the Enid A Haupt Garden in Washington DC, showcasing the love and connection between the couple.
An older couple shares a laugh at District Winery in Washington DC as the husband playfully steals food from his wife during the reception.
Newlyweds sharing a laugh in front of the US Capitol at 101 Constitution, Washington, DC, capturing a joyful moment during their outdoor, sunny wedding ceremony.
Groom lovingly washes bride's feet during foot washing ceremony at Foundry United Methodist Church in Washington DC as her sisters look on, a sacred and touching moment.
Wedding detail image showcasing appetizers suspended above a floral centerpiece, captured from a higher perspective. Located at Little Pearl in Washington DC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can couples find top-ranked Washington DC wedding photographers?
A: The WPJA created the original wedding photographer ranking systems. Our innovative system is based on contest winning points, meaning that the Washington DC photographers you see at the top of your search results page have recently won the most — and the most recent — contest awards. Our contests judge photographers based on their creativity, style, composure, and ability to capture the heart of any couple's story on their wedding day.
Q: How can couples find reviews of Washington DC wedding photographers?
A: We call them Client Letters. At the WPJA, we decided more than 20 years ago to avoid incorporating those third-person testimonials and endorsements that are found all too often in advertisements. Instead, we elevated our listings with the use of Client Letters, which represent the actual words and feelings of the clients who booked those Washington DC wedding photographers for their own wedding.
Q: Who are the best Washington DC wedding photographers for small elopements?
A: The WPJA is proud to have some of the top Washington DC documentary wedding photographers for elopements. Our members are able to submit WedElope Stories that take you step-by-step, via a 9 image picture story, through the unique and moving elopements that take place around the world.
WPJA Communiqué: Featured Wedding Photography Articles
Vows, Crowds, and Nerves: Avoid Stress with a Small Wedding
While some of us were fortunate enough to be born as extroverts, not everyone feels the same way. For a good chunk of the population, any number of the typical wedding day traditions can inspire anxiety and existential dread. This day is all about you, yes, but does that...Read more
Smaller Weddings in a Time of Social Distancing
It’s no secret that these are strange times we’re going through right now, and there are many couples out there with weddings set in the near future who are left feeling uncertain and concerned about their futures. While that’s understandable, it’s also important to...Read more
Essential Elopement Vendor - The Photographer
So your wedding is just around the corner and you’ve decided to elope , either because you want to do this on a budget , avoid a large wedding party, or simply to enjoy the day together with minimal distractions and as little stress as possible . They say 'all you need is...Read more

WPJA Communiqué: Viewpoints
Elopements: Traditional and Modern
The oldsters among the WPJA ranks no doubt remember when 'to elope' meant, in Merriam-Webster’s definition, “to run away secretly with the intention of getting married, usually without parental consent.” Many wedding photographers have gone on the lam with couples who did just that. However, even Merriam-Webster now acknowledges that “elope appears to have become shorthand for ‘ small destination weddings ,’ a ‘ wedding that is not financially insane ,’ or a ‘ wedding that allows us to not invite all the people we would rather not invite .’” Smaller Weddings are... Read more
What is Reportage?
On Instagram and elsewhere, one can see images labeled as #photojournalism or #reportage when they are, in fact, merely photos. I say "merely," even though photography has been my career's great passion. But it's because of that passion and my respect for the work of actual photojournalists that I am particularly bothered to see wedding photographers call their work "reportage." That word properly used actually means something important beyond just a stylistic conceit. By contrast, however, I'm the lead cheerleader for those practitioners of #weddingphotojournalism ... Read more

RAVES, REVIEWS, AND Washington DC WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER RECOMMENDATIONS

Grounds for Sculpture, Princeton, NJ wedding image in black and white of the couple cutting their cake

Tanya & Pete

Photo by William West

Thank you so much William! I just took a quick spin through and they are beautiful! Again, super big thank you. Pete and I know how early you came and how late you worked and we REALLY appreciate it. The pictures are beautiful and it's so wonderful having these moments captured forever. You were a pleasure to work with and I plan to recommend you to anyone who asks.

View Photographer

Susan & Benjamin

Photo by William West

Our wedding photo experience with you was exceptional! You were very professional and creative. All of our photographs turned out more beautiful than we could have ever imagined. You were able to capture the feelings and the beauty of our very special day in every photo. You were a pleasure to work with and our wedding day turned out to be the most amazing day. Your relaxed and creative style allowed us to have a lot of fun and really be ourselves. Most of the time, we didn’t even know you were there taking our photo. The photographs are amazing and we had so many to choose from. You set out to capture the beauty and magic of our special day and succeeded beyond all of our expectations. You are a true professional and talented photographer. We can’t thank you enough for providing us with beautiful memories that will last a lifetime!

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Wedding image from Celebrations At the Reservoir, Richmond, Virginia, USA

Anna & Justin

Photo by Xiaoqi Li

Xiaoqi: We wanted to thank you for your exceptional service especially how challenging 2020 turned out to be. Your small trinkets (the unexpected cookies!) made getting married a delightful process. We were on the fence about having a wedding and now that we have done it, we are so glad we made the choice to proceed. You were an enormous part of our pleasant, beautiful, amazing experience. Thank you. Love, Anna & Justin

View Photographer

WPJA contest judges have been recognized by their industry peers, winning top awards as staff picture editors, staff photojournalists, and newsroom mentors while working for these and other leading publications and journalism organizations.