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Hi there! I'm Melissa, a Northern Virginia Family & Newborn Photographer. Welcome to my journal, where you can find recent sessions, location ideas, tips for your best session, and more!
This spring, I hosted a mini session day for cherry blossom photos in Alexandria. It was a seriously gorgeous, warm spring day – almost 80 degrees! We could not have gotten a better weekend for peak bloom of the Yoshino cherry blossom trees. They are the most abundant type of cherry blossoms in the D.C. and Northern Virginia area.
The park was buzzing with people that day – spring sunshine tends to have that effect! But even with the crowds, we found pockets of peace and beautiful light. I made the choice to stay out of D.C. and avoid the Tidal Basin this year, and I’m so glad I did.
After peak bloom weekend, the Metro came out and said that Saturday was the 5th busiest day of the Metro ever. It was certainly a crazy time anywhere in D.C. that weekend. While those iconic views are stunning, the ease and accessibility of this Alexandria location made the day feel less rushed and more enjoyable for everyone involved. Less traffic, dedicated parking lot, not as many tourists, and just not as many people know about this cute little park. It was the perfect backdrop for these mini sessions! I’m excited to host them again next year. I also have plans to host another round of cherry blossom minis with the Kwanzan trees, which bloom about 2 weeks after the Yoshinos.
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Melissa Sheridan Photography offers family, maternity, and newborn photography for clients across Washington, DC, Virginia, and Maryland. Her approach is warm, thoughtful, and relaxed – focused on capturing what’s real, not just what’s posed. Whether documenting a quiet moment at home or a walk through a local park, she helps families feel seen and supported during these meaningful seasons of life. Interested in booking a session? Reach out to learn more.
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offer portrait photo sessions for families, newborns, maternity, and military evens in the Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C. area. She has over 9 years of experience and is based in Alexandria, Virginia.
melissa sheridan photography