After I did my friend Danicole’s graduate session in DC at the Capitol, his friend Marissa reached out, asking for senior photos at the Lincoln Memorial. Guys, I could’ve swooned. In fact, I think I did swoon. I’ve been waiting for an opportunity to shoot at this amazing, iconic location and Marissa was an absolutely gorgeous model. This first shot is actually from almost the very end of the session but isn’t it so majestic??
These next shots are where we actually started…sooo pretty. I’m ashamed to say that I’ve lived in the DC area for almost my entire life and I’ve never been to the Lincoln Memorial at sunrise. It’s, FOR SURE, a must-do. We had old Lincoln all to ourselves for a time…
…until people barged in on our space – but at least we gave them a good show 🤣
Having worked really hard on her Master’s in Public Policy from American University, she wanted to do a session wearing her cap and gown. We met before the crack of dawn – it’s okay to be too early for a sunrise session but you don’t want to be too late – and watched the sun come up behind the Washington Monument. Sigh. It was another dream come true.
Marissa was so patient with me at the end of her session when she thought she was done…and then I dragged her to the waterfront to take some shots with the weeping willows. Isn’t it a beautiful spot for photos, though?!?
And don’t get me started on the light at the reflecting pond with the Washington Monument in the background 😍
Marissa was such a willing participant in her photos so we ran all over that area surrounding the Lincoln.
And she showed me a spot that I’m embarrassed to admit I’d never been – despite living in the DC area most of my life.
You wouldn’t know we were right in the middle of DC…
I feel like I’m silently putting dreams out into the universe – I’ve been wanting to shoot at the monuments for awhile – and people are coming into my life and giving me opportunities to make them come true. I feel so grateful. Thanks for a wonderful session, Marissa!
If you get a chance, swing by Rachel’s grad photo session, also at the Lincoln. Rachel booked me after seeing Marissa’s photos and it completed the trifecta of DC grad sessions…but I’m always ready to start a new trifecta!
Liz Viernes Photography is based in Burtonsville, Maryland, and specializes in maternity, fresh 48, posed and lifestyle newborns and first year milestone portraits.Come follow along on Facebook and Instagram, and the Blog!
leave a comment