Library of Congress Engagement Photos in Washington, DC

Engagements

There are certain places in Washington, DC that feel timeless the moment you step inside. And among them, the Library of Congress stands apart. Kirn and Joey’s Library of Congress engagement photos unfolded like a joyful love story written into marble, light, and history. Elegant without feeling stiff, romantic without trying too hard, their session felt like a perfect reflection of who they are together.

A Timeless Engagement Session at the Library of Congress

Kirn and Joey are local to Northern VA, but they met during college at Virginia Tech. In fact, they were playing rugby together – already a testament to teamwork, grit, and shared joy. Joey later proposed during a romantic getaway at The Inn at Little Washington, setting the tone for an engagement rooted in intention and celebration. (Fun fact – the Inn at Little Washington is one of my favorite wedding venues!)

Because of that, choosing the Library of Congress for their engagement photos felt like a natural extension of their story – classic, meaningful, and grand. As a Northern VA wedding photographer, it’s one of my favorite locations in the DC area!

Why the Library of Congress Is Perfect for Engagement Photos

The Library of Congress is one of the most chic engagement session locations in Washington, DC – and for good reason.

Soaring columns and refined architectural detail
Soft natural light filtering through high windows
A sense of reverence and calm, even on busy days
Stunning variety, all within one location

For couples who love elegance and history, and who want engagement photos that feel elevated, this space is the perfect fit.

Looking for more engagement photos in Washington, DC? Take a look at Daniela and Josh at The Kennedy Center, Gabby and Ben in Georgetown, and Gretchen and Dakota at the Basilica Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Indoor and Outdoor Engagement Photos at the Library of Congress

We began indoors, taking advantage of the upper-level light and the rhythm of the long hallways. Kirn and Joey wandered with ease, pausing in quiet alcoves where the world seemed to soften for a moment. One of my favorite hidden gems was an unassuming alcove – technically leading to a restroom – that opened into a romantic green-and-gold dome above their heads. Proof that beauty often reveals itself in the most unexpected places

From above, I photographed Joey twirling Kirn in the main foyer while the grandeur of the Library unfolded beneath them. The layered perspective made the space feel cinematic and grand.

Finally, we finished outside on the front steps, the only steps at the Library of Congress where photography is permitted. Bathed in bright midday sunshine, their portraits felt joyful and confident. The iconic façade stood as a quiet witness to their joy.

Engagement Photos for a Catholic Couple Preparing for Marriage

Kirn and Joey will marry this spring at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, where I photographed Sarah and Ed’s wedding a couple years ago. Those photos were actually why Kirn says she fell in love with Beauty of the Soul Studio! After their ceremony, Kirn and Joey will celebrate with a wedding reception at Shadow Creek. Their engagement season isn’t just about planning a beautiful wedding – it’s about preparing for the sacrament of marriage itself.

For this reason, that sense of purpose shaped the tone of their session. There was reverence here, yes – but also laughter, ease, and joy. A love rooted in faith, friendship, and shared history, unfolding naturally in front of the camera.

Engagement Photos on Film

An extra special part of photographing Kirn and Joey’s engagement photos was that I got to bring along my film camera! Engagement photos on film add another level of being timeless and romantic. It was the perfect setting for it. I’ve been exploring film for the last year and now have a film add-on to my weddings and engagement photos. If you’re looking for a Northern VA film photographer, without committing to having your entire wedding shot on film, you’re in the right place!

These Library of Congress engagement photos are on Kodak Ektar 100 film, pushed 2 stops. After a lot of experimentation with different film stocks and development methods, I’ve fallen in love with this specific setup. It fits my photography style well with beautiful colors and contrast!

Do You Need a Permit for Library of Congress Engagement Photos?

If you’re dreaming of Library of Congress engagement photos, a little planning goes a long way:

You aren’t required to obtain a special photography permit! But you must get timed entry tickets just like any other visitors
Photography on the staircases of the Library is strictly prohibited – they WILL notice and reprimand you! We opted to pose near the staircases but not blocking them to avoid any trouble. However, you can use the outdoor stairs freely
Midday sessions offer incredible interior light
Expect visitors – quiet corners and alcoves are key
Classic, tailored outfits photograph beautifully here
Indoor and outdoor variety creates a full, cohesive gallery

When you book engagement photos with Beauty of the Soul Studio, I handle all the logistics so you can stay present, relaxed, and focused on each other.

Washington DC Engagement Photography with Heart and Intention

Kirn and Joey’s Library of Congress engagement photos were a perfect blend of elegance and authenticity – historic surroundings paired with genuine connection. It was such a joy to document this season for them as they prepare for a sacred and joyful wedding day.

If you’re envisioning engagement photos in Washington, DC that feel meaningful, romantic, and true to who you are, I would love to help tell your story. Get the conversation started!