Photographing Washington, D.C.: Digital Field Guide

Chapter 8. Mount Vernon Estate

A view from the east side of the Mount Vernon mansion. Taken at ISO 200, f/8,1/100 second using a 20mm lens.

Why It's Worth a Photograph

Mount Vernon, George Washington's estate and final resting place, is a few miles down the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.

The area open to the public is where Washington and his family lived, and is called Mansion House Farm. Washington designed the 500 acres to be largely self-sustaining. He began living there when he was just three years old, when Augustine Washington, his father, moved there in 1735.

Washington lived on the property for over 45 years, with the notable exception of his time as the commander in chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and his time as the first President of the United States.

Figure 8.1. The best locations from which to photograph Mount Vernon Estate: (A) East mansion lawn, (B) west side of the mansion across the Bowling Green, (C) the outbuildings, and (D) George Washington: Pioneer Farmer.

Where Can I Get the Best Shot?

There is much to see and photograph at Mount Vernon, with one important exception: No pictures are allowed within the mansion. However, after a tour through the intricately restored home, there is enough elsewhere to keep a photographer occupied for several ...