Lincoln Memorial Engagement Session | Gina and James

Gina and James’s Lincoln Memorial engagement session was proof that even rainy days can turn into something truly magical. As an East Coast wedding photographer who thrives on helping couples feel relaxed, present, and completely themselves—I couldn’t have asked for a more joyful, go-with-the-flow duo. We embraced the unexpected, got a little creative, and ended up with some of my favorite engagement photos to date.

A Rainy Day in D.C. with the Best Energy

From the moment we arrived at the Lincoln Memorial, it was clear we were in for an adventure. It rained steadily the entire session, and about three-quarters of the Lincoln Memorial was under construction and blocked off. But here’s the amazing part: you’d never know it from the images. Gina and James showed up ready to roll with anything and fully trusted me to find the beauty in every corner. That kind of trust? It’s everything.

Instead of focusing on what we couldn’t access, we explored what we could. We worked around the construction and found little pockets of beauty, from the marble steps of the memorial to the soft, reflective light bouncing off the puddles. I loved using the symmetry of the columns, the romantic quiet of the DC War Memorial, and the calm, misty atmosphere around the Reflecting Pool.

Making Magic in the Rain

One unexpected gift from the rain? We had the entire place nearly to ourselves. No tourists, no crowds—just Gina and James, wrapped up in their own little world. There’s something incredibly romantic about capturing a couple in such an iconic space without the usual distractions. Their laughter, their quiet moments, the way they held each other close while staying dry(ish)—every bit of it felt intimate and real.

This Lincoln Memorial engagement session is a reminder that sometimes, the “less-than-ideal” days can bring out the most beautiful, candid moments. I’ll never forget how fun it was to get creative with these two, and how fully they embraced the moment.

Looking Ahead to Their Barn at Silverstone Wedding

Gina and James will be tying the knot in November 2025 at the gorgeous Barn at Silverstone in Lancaster, PA—and I absolutely cannot wait. If their wedding day is anything like their engagement session, it’s going to be full of laughter, heart, and so much love. The Barn at Silverstone is one of those venues that feels both timeless and welcoming—just like Gina and James.

Their session was such a great reminder that photography isn’t just about perfect weather or flawless locations—it’s about telling your story, exactly as it is. Rain, construction, and all.

Planning Your Own D.C. Engagement?

If you’re dreaming of your own Lincoln Memorial engagement session, rain or shine, I’m here to make sure it’s stress-free, fun, and full of emotion. Whether you’re planning something iconic like the National Mall or a hidden gem in the city, we’ll create something beautiful together.

📩 Ready to start planning your engagement session? Reach out — I’d love to hear your story!