The Jefferson Memorial

16 E Basin Dr SW,
Washington, DC 20242
A couple kissing on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial in Washington DC.

Key Information About Photography
at The Jefferson Memorial

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The Jefferson Memorial

16 E Basin Dr SW
Washington, DC 20242

Best Season:

Year Round

Portrait Permits:

The Jefferson Memorial requires a permit for portrait photography.

Permit Cost:

$140

Parking Info:

Paid public parking is typically available a short walk away in the parking lots on Ohio Drive, south of the Ohio Drive Bridge. Street parking may also sometimes be available southbound on Ohio Drive north of the Ohio Drive Bridge.

Hosts Events:

No

Important Photography Limtations at The Jefferson Memorial

Portraits are not allowed within the walls of the monument, and crowds will generally nullify this option anyway. Additionally, ongoing construction projects at the site may limit areas and angles suitable for portraits. It is also reported that parks operated by NPS require a permit for professional photography. We encourage you to obtain this permit prior to your session. In practice, the geographical size of these locations and the sheer number of visitors they receive, and the patchwork of land they account for, makes it unlikely you will be approached when performing low-impact activities (such as family portrait or engagement sessions). If you opt not to obtain a permit, be aware that you may be asked to furnish your permit, or leave if you have not obtained one.

Photos from The Jefferson Memorial

About  The Jefferson Memorial

The Jefferson Memorial is a stunning and iconic presidential memorial located in Washington, D.C. The construction of this memorial began in 1939 and was completed in 1943 in honor of Thomas Jefferson, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States and the principal author of the United States Declaration of Independence. The memorial is situated on the south side of West Potomac Park, overlooking the Tidal Basin, and is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture.

The memorial is a popular tourist attraction in Washington, D.C. and is visited by millions of people each year. It is composed of a circular colonnade of Ionic order columns, a portico, and a shallow dome. The memorial is open to the elements and is 129 feet high and 190 feet in diameter. The statue of Thomas Jefferson inside the memorial, sculpted by Rudolph Evans, is 19 feet tall and weighs 10,000 pounds.

The Jefferson Memorial is a popular location for portrait photography because of its beautiful and serene setting. The memorial is located on the Tidal Basin, which provides a peaceful atmosphere that can be captured in photographs. Additionally, the memorial is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so photographers can take portraits at any time of day or night. Moreover, the memorial is free to visit, which can help save money on a portrait session.

Furthermore, the Jefferson Memorial is unique among Washington, D.C. landmarks in that it offers relatively easy parking options. Visitors can park in nearby lots or along the Potomac River, making it convenient for portrait sessions. As an added bonus, the walk to the memorial from the parking area passes by the George Mason Memorial, another excellent location for portrait photography. The George Mason Memorial features a bronze statue of the founding father and a serene, landscaped setting overlooking the Tidal Basin. Together, these two locations provide ample opportunities for beautiful and memorable portraits.

The memorial’s popularity however can also pose challenges for portrait sessions. As it is a popular tourist destination, one will need to share the space with other visitors during the portrait session. This can make it difficult to get a clear shot and to keep the subject’s attention. Moreover, the memorial can be crowded and noisy, which can impact the quality of the photographs.

Other Locations for Photography in Washington DC

Lake Elkhorn

Permit: No
6800 Cradlerock Way
Columbia, MD 21045
Under a clear sky, Lake Elkhorn mirrors the lush green trees surrounding it. A quaint building and an elegant bridge gracefully span across the background, enhancing the tranquil scene.

Annapolis Waterworks Park

Permit: No
270 Defense Hwy
Annapolis, MD 21401
Nestled in Annapolis Waterworks Park, a dam stands surrounded by lush green trees, while a calm river meanders beneath the clear sky.

Silver Swan Bayside

Permit: No Portraits
412 Congressional Drive
Stevensville, Maryland 21666

Mt. Washington Mill Dye House

Permit: No Portraits
1340 Smith Avenue
Baltimore, MD

Blackwall Barn & Lodge

Permit: No Portraits
329 Gambrills Rd
Gambrills, MD 21054

Lake Elkhorn

Permit: No
Location Type:
Boardwalk, Park, Waterfront

Annapolis Waterworks Park

Permit: No
Location Type:
Nature Center, Park, Rustic

Silver Swan Bayside

Permit: No Portraits

Mt. Washington Mill Dye House

Permit: No Portraits
Location Type:
Event Venue, Historic, Urban

Blackwall Barn & Lodge

Permit: No Portraits
Location Type:
Event Venue, Restaurant

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The Jefferson Memorial!

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