Stunning Engagement Photo Locales

Congratulations, you’re engaged! Now is the time to announce your engagement and document it with some beautiful photos. There are countless locations to hold your engagement photo session throughout New England—from bucolic landscapes to seaside settings. We’ve teamed up with several top New England photographers to find out their favorite photo spots. Be sure to check out these locations and consider adding them to your list!

BLITHEWOLD MANSION,

GARDENS & ARBORETUM

“A few years ago, I became a photographer's member at Blithewold and it is one of my best annual investments by far. Blithewold offers the most amazing settings year round, but especially in the warmer months when the grounds are covered with exotic florals and gardens. My favorite spot is where the bamboo grove meets the back gardens. If you time it just right in the summer months, you'll catch the setting sun pouring light through the trees. It is one of the most magical backdrops the grounds offer!”

—Sarah Pudlo, Sarah Pudlo & Co

“Not only does the Chart Room have docks nearby for some variety, but if a couple loves their Cape Cod mudslides, this is the perfect place and helps to show off their personality!”

—Meredith J. Hunter, Meredith Jane Photography

Colt State Park

“This is a great spot to visit in the spring, summer or fall. I like this location because there are a number of photo opportunities with a variety of backgrounds all in the same area: verdant woods, stone walls, bridges and even docks with the rocky beach. The sunset is also amazing there.”

—Nicole Gesmondi, Nicole Gesmondi Photographer LLC

ROUTE 114

BRISTOL, RHODE ISLAND

Newport Vineyards

“Calling all oenophiles! This venue is perfect for an engagement session, specially for wine lovers! There are multiple photo opportunities, indoors and out, whether you are exploring amid rolling acres of verdant vines, resting for a picnic on the patio or itasting vino inside the site’s winery, which features racks of both modern steel and rustic wood wine barrels.”

—Hilary Block, Hilary B. Photography

909 E. MAIN ROAD MIDDLETOWN, RHODE ISLAND

Charlestown

“Nothing beats the beautiful Boston city skyline and historic Freedom Trail as little added "props" in an engagement session.”

—Meredith J. Hunter, Meredith Jane Photography

CHARLESTOWN, MASSACHUSETTS

Nicole Gesmondi of Nicole Gesmondi Photographer, LLC shares her tips to ensure a successful engagement photo session.

1. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!

Choosing the setting for your photo session is important and should be meaningful. If you love the beach, pick your favorite sandy spot; if you're outdoorsy, choose a scenic park or walking trail; or if you love the city, have the skyline as your backdrop. For those who feel more comfortable at home (because there's no place like home, right?) choose your front stoop or living room and keep it casual.

2. DRESS TO IMPRESS

Dressing the part is important to a successful photo shoot. Many couples coordinate their outfits and color schemes, but it's best not to be too matchy-matchy. There's no particular dress code, but Gesmondi suggests that whether you're going for a formal or casual look, try to keep it classic: stick to solid prints instead of intricate patterns, stripes, plaids or bright neon colors.

3. ADD PERSONALITY WITH PROPS

CRESCENT PARK LOOFF CAROUSEL & ROSE LARISA PARK

“We love the Looff Carousel at Crescent Park in Riverside because of the amazing variety [of photo opportunities] available at the location. The carousel is fun and beautifully restored, and Rose Larisa Park is right across the street, offering sweeping views of Narragansett Bay. It's the perfect blend of drama and whimsy!”

—Matt Celeste + Britt Kosiba, Blueflash Photography

Fort Adams State

“Fort Adams is one of our personal favorites. There isn’t another space like it around. Home to the Newport Folk Festival, the space features a number of rustic rooms that are so unique and perfect for couples looking for a spot that’s a little different.”

—Sean Brown, Move Mountains Co.

Having a theme and incorporating props into your shoot adds creativity and personality, and is most definitely a “do.” Fly a kite, have a picnic or bring your pet! There are countless ways to bring life (and fun) to your pictures.

4. ASK QUESTIONS!

Now's a great time to pick your photographer's brain and get answers to your questions. If you are concerned about the logistics of your wedding day or have some fun ideas for photo ops, take some time to discuss and brainstorm with your photographer. If it helps, prepare a list of questions beforehand so you don't forget while you're in the moment.