Hidden Gems for Portrait Photography in PG County
As a Prince George's County photographer who has explored every corner of this diverse Maryland county, I've discovered incredible locations that rival any spot in the DMV area. From serene lakeside settings to urban backdrops, PG County offers portrait photography locations that are both accessible and absolutely stunning.
Whether you're planning family portraits in Upper Marlboro, engagement photos in Bowie, or professional headshots near College Park, this guide reveals the best-kept secrets and most photogenic spots throughout Prince George's County. Best of all, most of these locations are free and don't require permits!
1. Lake Artemesia Natural Area
Location: Berwyn Heights/College Park
Best For: Nature portraits, engagement sessions, fitness photos
This 38-acre lake offers a 1.35-mile paved trail perfect for walking and finding multiple photo spots. The golden hour reflects beautifully off the water, and the surrounding trees provide natural framing year-round.
- Best Time: Sunrise or 2 hours before sunset
- Parking: Free at 5200 Berwyn Rd
- Crowds: Light on weekday mornings
2. Watkins Regional Park
Location: Upper Marlboro
Best For: Family portraits, children's photos, seasonal sessions
This 437-acre park is a portrait photographer's dream with its variety of backdrops including open fields, wooded areas, historic buildings, and a charming antique carousel. The Old Maryland Farm section offers rustic charm.
- Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
- Parking: Multiple free lots
- Special: Beautiful in all seasons
3. National Harbor Waterfront
Location: Oxon Hill
Best For: Urban portraits, professional headshots, engagement photos
While technically in PG County, National Harbor offers a sophisticated waterfront setting with modern architecture, the Capital Wheel, and stunning Potomac River views. The plaza areas provide clean, contemporary backgrounds.
- Best Time: Weekday evenings for fewer crowds
- Parking: Paid garages ($5-20)
- Tip: Free street parking after 6 PM
4. Riversdale House Museum
Location: Riverdale Park
Best For: Elegant portraits, wedding photos, historic themes
This stunning Federal-style mansion built in 1807 offers beautiful grounds with manicured gardens, brick pathways, and classic architecture. The front lawn and side gardens provide multiple portrait opportunities.
- Best Time: Spring for blooming gardens
- Parking: Free on-site
- Note: Check for event closures
5. Allen Pond Park
Location: Bowie
Best For: Family sessions, maternity photos, casual portraits
Bowie's premier park features a 10-acre pond, walking trails, gardens, and the Bowie Ice Arena. The variety of settings from waterside to wooded areas makes it perfect for extended portrait sessions.
- Best Time: Golden hour for pond reflections
- Parking: Ample free parking
- Bonus: Covered pavilions for weather backup
Hidden Photography Gems in Prince George's County
Beyond the popular spots, these lesser-known locations offer unique backdrops without the crowds:
6. Buddy Attick Lake Park - Greenbelt
7. Montpelier Mansion - Laurel
8. Cosca Regional Park - Clinton
9. Oxon Cove Park & Farm - Oxon Hill
10. University of Maryland Campus - College Park
Best PG County Locations by Season
🌸 Spring (March - May)
- Brookside Gardens (nearby): Cherry blossoms and azaleas
- Riversdale House: Blooming gardens and green lawns
- Lake Artemesia: Wildflowers along trails
- UMD Campus: Flowering trees and tulips
☀️ Summer (June - August)
- National Harbor: Waterfront breeze and evening lights
- Watkins Park: Lush green fields and shaded areas
- Cosca Park Lake: Beach area and water reflections
- Allen Pond: Early morning mist over water
🍂 Fall (September - November)
- Cosca Regional Park: Peak foliage mid-October
- Watkins Regional Park: Colorful trees and hay bales
- Greenbelt Park: Hiking trails with fall colors
- Buddy Attick Lake: Reflected autumn colors
❄️ Winter (December - February)
- National Harbor: Holiday decorations and lights
- Historic mansions: Elegant indoor options
- UMD Campus: Architecture without crowds
- Montpelier Mansion: Evergreen backdrops
Portrait Photography Tips for PG County Locations
Timing Your Session
The best light for portraits in PG County occurs during the "golden hour" - the hour after sunrise or before sunset. During summer months, aim for sessions before 9 AM or after 6 PM to avoid harsh shadows and squinting.
Dealing with Crowds
Popular locations like National Harbor and Lake Artemesia can get crowded on weekends. For intimate portrait sessions, visit on weekday mornings or during school hours. Most parks are virtually empty before 8 AM on weekdays.
Weather Contingencies
Maryland weather is notoriously unpredictable. Always have a backup plan:
- Covered pavilions at Watkins and Allen Pond Parks
- National Harbor's covered walkways and indoor areas
- Historic house museums for indoor options
- University buildings (check accessibility first)
Quick Location Comparison Guide
| Location | Best For | Parking | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Artemesia | Nature/Fitness | Free | Light-Moderate |
| Watkins Park | Families | Free | Light |
| National Harbor | Urban/Modern | Paid | Heavy |
| Riversdale House | Elegant/Historic | Free | Very Light |
| Allen Pond | Versatile | Free | Moderate |
Insider Tips from a Local PG County Photographer
- Parking Secrets: At Lake Artemesia, park at the Paint Branch Parkway lot for easier access to the best photo spots
- Hidden Gem: The butterfly garden at Watkins Park blooms June-September with amazing colors
- Best Kept Secret: Marietta House Museum in Glenn Dale has beautiful grounds and is rarely crowded
- Sunset Spot: The west side of Allen Pond offers unobstructed sunset views
- Rainy Day Option: The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at UMD has stunning modern architecture
- Free Props: Watkins Park's Old Maryland Farm has vintage farm equipment perfect for rustic portraits
- Wildlife Bonus: Early morning at Buddy Attick Lake often features herons and deer