A Guide to Choosing the Ideal Location for Your Photo Shoot
The DMV boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes, from historic towns to serene natural wonders, offering a plethora of opportunities for photographers to capture stunning images. Whether you're an amateur enthusiast or a seasoned professional, here are some must-visit locations across Maryland that promise picturesque vistas and captivating scenes.
Below you will find some suggested locations. This list is ever-evolving and not even a blip of all the wonderful locations out in the DMV. Check out the links below, where they are available. I will constantly be updating and adding to this list and the sessions I do.
Harford County
Jerusalem Mill: Step back in time at this historic site, featuring a restored 18th-century gristmill and scenic surroundings perfect for rustic photography.
Eden Mill: Nestled along the Deer Creek, Eden Mill offers idyllic views of waterfalls, meadows, and forests, making it a haven for nature photographers.
Rocks State Park: Explore the rugged beauty of the park, home to the iconic King and Queen Seat rock formation and cascading Kilgore Falls, a favorite among landscape photographers.
Downtown Bel Air: Discover the charm of Bel Air's downtown area with its quaint streets, colorful storefronts, and lively atmosphere, ideal for urban photography.
Historic Havre de Grace: Stroll along the waterfront and capture the historic architecture, lighthouses, and scenic vistas overlooking the Susquehanna River.
The Liriodendron: This historic estate features elegant gardens, picturesque architecture, and sprawling grounds, offering endless possibilities for creative photography.
Susquehanna State Park: With its diverse landscapes, including forested trails, river views, and historic sites like the Rock Run Grist Mill, the park provides ample opportunities for exploration and photography.
Swan Harbor Farms: Photographers flock to this scenic waterfront property with its sweeping views of Chesapeake Bay, serene meadows, and abundant wildlife.
Private Horse Farm: Experience the beauty of Maryland's countryside with a visit to a private horse farm, where you can capture the grace and majesty of these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
Baltimore City Area
Baltimore City Downtown: From iconic landmarks like the Inner Harbor to bustling city streets, downtown Baltimore offers a vibrant backdrop for street photography and architectural shots.
Federal Hill: Climb to the top of Federal Hill Park for panoramic views of the city skyline, Inner Harbor, and historic neighborhoods below.
Historic Fells Point: Wander through cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings, trendy shops, and waterfront views, perfect for capturing the charm of Baltimore's maritime past.
Patterson Park: Known as the "Best Backyard in Baltimore," Patterson Park features scenic landscapes, historic monuments, and recreational activities, making it a favorite spot for both nature and portrait photographers.
Lake Roland: Escape the urban hustle and bustle at Lake Roland, where you can capture tranquil lake views, lush greenery, and diverse wildlife in a peaceful natural setting.
Graffiti Alley: Dive into Baltimore's vibrant street art scene at Graffiti Alley, where ever-changing murals provide a colorful backdrop for urban photography.
Sherwood Gardens: Visit during the tulip bloom season to capture the breathtaking beauty of over 80,000 tulips in full bloom, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors.
Clipper Mill: Explore this historic industrial complex turned creative hub, featuring renovated mills, art studios, and architectural gems that provide endless photo opportunities.
Bromo Seltzer Tower: Stand in awe of this iconic Baltimore landmark, known for its distinctive clock tower and historic significance, offering unique perspectives for architectural photography.
Cylburn Arboretum: Lose yourself in the beauty of Cylburn Arboretum, home to sprawling gardens, wooded trails, and diverse plant collections, perfect for capturing the changing seasons.
Rawlings Conservatory: Safe from mother nature and filled with an abundance of light and greenery.
Henderson’s Wharf: Take a stroll along the waterfront in Fells Point and capture the charm of Henderson's Wharf with its historic buildings, sailboats, and scenic harbor views.
Baltimore County
The Hampton House: Step back in time at this historic mansion and gardens, where you can capture the elegance of 18th-century architecture and landscaped grounds.
Old Towson Courthouse: Marvel at the architectural beauty of the Old Towson Courthouse, a landmark building dating back to 1854, offering a glimpse into Baltimore County's rich history.
Cromwell Valley State Park: Explore the tranquil landscapes of Cromwell Valley State Park, featuring meadows, forests, and historic farm buildings that provide endless photo opportunities.
Oregon Ridge Park: From scenic hiking trails to picturesque picnic areas, Oregon Ridge Park offers stunning views of nature's beauty throughout the year, including vibrant fall foliage and peaceful winter landscapes.
Hammerman Beach: Spend a day by the water at Hammerman Beach, where you can capture sun-drenched shores, sparkling waves, and panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Benjamin Bannekar Park: Honor the legacy of Benjamin Bannekar, a self-taught astronomer and mathematician, at this scenic park featuring gardens, trails, and educational exhibits.
Marshy Point St Park: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Marshy Point State Park, where you can capture stunning views of marshlands, tidal creeks, and diverse wildlife along the Chesapeake Bay.
Pretty Boy Reservoir: Escape to the serene beauty of Pretty Boy Reservoir, where you can photograph pristine waters, forested shorelines, and scenic overlooks nestled in the countryside.
Anne Arundel County
Annapolis Waterfront: Discover the beauty of Maryland's capital city with a stroll along the Annapolis waterfront, where you can capture historic architecture, sailboats, and stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Kinderfarm Park: This sprawling park offers a diverse range of landscapes, including meadows, woodlands, and wetlands, providing ample opportunities for nature and wildlife photography.
Lake Waterford: Escape the hustle and bustle at Lake Waterford Park, where you can capture serene lake views, wooded trails, and diverse flora and fauna in a peaceful natural setting.
Downs Park: Explore the scenic beauty of Downs Park, with its waterfront vistas, wooded trails, and landscaped gardens that offer a picturesque backdrop for outdoor photography.
Quiet Waters Park: Lose yourself in the tranquility of Quiet Waters Park, featuring scenic trails, art installations, and expansive views of the South River, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.
Londontown Gardens: Step into the past at Historic Londontown and Gardens, where you can photograph colonial-era architecture, lush gardens, and scenic waterfront views along the South River.
Jonas Green Park: Located near the Naval Academy Bridge, Jonas Green Park offers panoramic views of the Severn River and the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, making it a popular spot for landscape photography.
Sandy Point State Park: With its sandy beaches, scenic overlooks, and panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, Sandy Point State Park is a paradise for beachgoers and photographers alike.
Kent Island and Eastern Shore
Matapeake Beach: Sink your toes into the soft sand and capture the breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay at Matapeake Beach, known for its serene atmosphere and stunning sunsets.
Chesapeake Bay Environmental Center: Explore the diverse habitats of the Chesapeake Bay region, including wetlands, forests, and meadows, providing ample opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.
Historic Ellicott City and Howard County
Historic Ellicott City: Wander through the charming streets of Historic Ellicott City, lined with historic buildings, eclectic shops, and picturesque alleyways, offering a glimpse into the town's rich past.
Howard County Conservancy: Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the Howard County Conservancy, where you can explore scenic trails, meadows, and woodlands, ideal for capturing the changing seasons.
Centennial Park: Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of Howard County at Centennial Park, featuring a pristine lake, wooded trails, and scenic picnic areas perfect for outdoor photography.
Patapsco Valley Park: Follow the winding paths of Patapsco Valley Park as they lead you through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and historic ruins, providing endless opportunities for landscape and nature photography.
Brighton Dam: Marvel at the architectural beauty of Brighton Dam as it spans the Patuxent River, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the shimmering waters below.
Shrine of St. Anthony: Capture the serene beauty of the Shrine of St. Anthony, with its peaceful gardens, tranquil ponds, and stunning architecture, providing a serene backdrop for contemplative photography.
Savage Mill: Step back in time at Savage Mill, a historic textile mill turned shopping and dining destination, featuring picturesque brick buildings and scenic riverside views.
Washington D.C. and Surrounding Areas
DC Monuments & Area: Embark on a photographic journey through the iconic monuments and landmarks of Washington D.C., capturing the timeless beauty of the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and more.
Rock Creek Park: Explore the natural beauty of Rock Creek Park, with its wooded trails, babbling streams, and peaceful meadows, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Brookside Gardens: Lose yourself in the vibrant colors and fragrant blooms of Brookside Gardens, featuring meticulously landscaped gardens, serene ponds, and charming gazebos, perfect for botanical photography.
Carroll and Frederick Counties
Piney Run Park: Discover the natural beauty of Piney Run Park, with its scenic lake, wooded trails, and abundant wildlife, providing endless opportunities for outdoor photography and birdwatching.
Monocacy Battlefield: Honor the history of the Civil War at Monocacy Battlefield, where you can capture panoramic views of the battlefield, historic landmarks, and scenic landscapes.
Cecil County and Nearby Pennsylvania
North East Amphitheater: Enjoy live performances against the backdrop of the North East River at the North East Amphitheater, offering stunning views of the waterfront and picturesque sunsets.
Overlook Park (PA): Soak in panoramic views of the rolling hills and valleys of Pennsylvania at Overlook Park, offering breathtaking vistas and ample opportunities for landscape photography.
Valley Forge Park (PA): Explore the historic grounds of Valley Forge Park, where you can capture the beauty of lush forests, meandering streams, and historic landmarks dating back to the Revolutionary War.
Longwood Gardens (PA): Step into a world of horticultural wonder at Longwood Gardens, featuring stunning botanical displays, lush conservatories, and enchanting fountains, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.
Tyler Gardens (PA): Discover the tranquil beauty of Tyler Gardens, with its manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and charming stone structures, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor photography.
Lititz Springs Park (PA): Stroll through the scenic pathways of Lititz Springs Park, where you can capture the beauty of historic springs, peaceful ponds, and lush greenery in this charming Pennsylvania town.
The Pinnacle Overlook (PA): Hike to the summit of The Pinnacle Overlook for sweeping views of the Susquehanna River and the picturesque landscapes of Lancaster County, offering stunning vistas and photo opportunities.
Conestoga House and Gardens (PA): Explore the manicured gardens and elegant grounds of Conestoga House, a historic mansion surrounded by lush greenery and colorful blooms, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor photography.
