Obama's Cherry Blossom Photobomb: A Picture-Perfect Presidential Cameo

In what might be the most charming photobomb of the year, former President Barack Obama made an unexpected cameo during a Virginia family’s cherry blossom photo shoot in Washington, D.C. The ex-president, caught strolling in the background of a professional photo of Belle, aged 4, and Preston, aged 1, later offered a public apology for the accidental interruption. And honestly, how do you say no to an ‘oops’ from Obama?

The photo in question, taken at the iconic Tidal Basin, shows the two children smiling sweetly under a branch of pink blossoms, with the Washington Monument visible in the background. Walking casually behind them, Obama donned a cap, sunglasses, and his signature laid-back vibe—hands in pockets, soaking in the springtime scenery. Talk about blending presidential swagger with tourist mode.

On Instagram, Obama addressed the incident with humor, writing, "Preston and Belle, hope you enjoyed peak bloom. My bad for stepping into the shot." Seems like being photogenic runs in his DNA, even unintentionally.

Portia Moore, the children's mother, shared the delightful story on her own Instagram, recounting how her husband, Damien Thomas, noticed the unexpected guest in their family photo shoot. "I’m just focused on Preston not running towards the water (peak mom moment)," Moore wrote. After realizing Obama’s cameo, Moore ran to photographer Briana Inell to confirm the moment was captured. And sure enough, there it was—the perfect shot.

Photographer Briana Inell, who’s been snapping family and newborn photographs for over a decade, told reporters she’s used to tourists walking into her pictures at the popular Tidal Basin. "I tell my clients, ‘Don’t worry, they will be Photoshopped out.’ But, of course, you don’t Photoshop out a former president," she quipped.

As if the photobomb wasn’t enough, Obama shared his own appreciation for the cherry blossoms, posting on Instagram: "It’s fun to be able to play tourist once in a while. The cherry blossoms were beautiful this morning!"

Every spring, the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C., attract millions of visitors from across the globe. But this year, one family got an unforgettable souvenir—a presidential cameo that’s sure to make their photo album a national treasure.