The Kennedy Center Grounds

2700 F St NW,
Washington, DC 20566
A couple kissing on a bench in front of the Kennedy Center Grounds building in Washington DC.

Key Information About Photography
at The Kennedy Center Grounds

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I would like to hold a session here!

The Kennedy Center Grounds

2700 F St NW
Washington, DC 20566

Location Type:

Best Season:

Year Round

Portrait Permits:

A permit for portrait photography is not required.

Parking Info:

Paid parking for the Kennedy Center is typically available in the Kennedy Center parking garage. Street parking can also sometimes be found along F St NW, and Virginia Ave NW.

Hosts Events:

No

Important Photography Limtations at The Kennedy Center Grounds

Evenings when the Kennedy Center is holding events, the location may extremely busy, especially on the terrace overlooking the Potomac River. Additionally, under most circumstances photographers cannot use any equipment which is not affixed directly to the camera.

Photos from The Kennedy Center Grounds

About  The Kennedy Center Grounds

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, located in Washington, D.C., is a world-renowned cultural center that has been hosting some of the most iconic performances in American history since its opening in 1971. The Kennedy Center is also a great place for portraits of all kinds due to its unique exterior design.

The Kennedy Center was designed by architect Edward Durell Stone and features a distinctive exterior that is instantly recognizable. The building is made up of large smooth white stone and is supported by enormous gold columns, which provide a striking contrast against the white exterior. The columns are covered in real gold leaf, making them gleam in the sunlight and adding a touch of luxury to the building’s design.

The exterior of the Kennedy Center also features a large plaza leading up to the entrance, which provides an ideal location for capturing portraits in natural light. The plaza is often bustling with visitors, adding a dynamic backdrop to any portrait. Additionally, the large reflecting pool located in front of the building can also be used as a striking background for portraits.

In addition to its unique design, the Kennedy Center is a popular location for portraits due to its rich cultural history. The center has hosted some of the most famous musicians, actors, and politicians in history, making it an ideal location for capturing portraits of all kinds. The interior of the center is just as impressive as the exterior, with five main theaters, a concert hall, and an opera house that provide a variety of locations for portraits.

However, parking can be a challenge at the Kennedy Center, especially during busy periods when events are taking place. Visitors can use the paid garage on site, which is available 24/7 and provides easy access to the center.

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 Kennedy Center Grounds!

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