Our state offers some of the most unique and gorgeous options for your family’s photoshoots. Whether you want sprawling beach, gorgeous Lavender blooms or rustic woods, we have it all.
When selecting your location, be mindful of your family needs as well as what the location has to offer. Beaches are often best first thing in the morning or at sunset. Wooded locations are great almost any time of the day.
The location options are dependent on the package you’ve selected. As an example, Classic sessions include the studio, Hammonasset State park or Bauer Park. Signature sessions include locations within 15 mile radius of 06443.
Hammonasett State Park in Madison CT
The CT shoreline is known for its gorgeous sprawling beaches and this location is my favorite. From beautiful greenery, winding paths, to open water, tall grasses in the sand, to a moody rocky beach, this location has it all.
What to be mindful of:
- Beach photos are usually done at sunset so if you have young kids with early bedtimes, you will want to make sure that we are shooting at the right season. As an example, August/September the set sets around 6:30-7:30pm. Want a weeknight session that won’t interfere with your 9-5? June, July and early August the sun sets late so you’ll have plenty of time.
- Expecting this winter but still want outdoor photos? The beach is GORGEOUS in the wintertime if you don’t mind being a little cold. Don’t worry I have lots of tricks that will help you stay warm!
There are two different locations at Hammonasset that I love to recommend:
West Beach: the first, and often most requested, is the West side. I often refer to this location as the “beachy” side. Starting with an adorable little path, it opens up to a wide long beach with minimal distractions. This location is perfect for sunset beach family photos or cloudy maternity photos. This location also has some unique features like the log and tall grass. While this side of the beach can sometimes get crowded during the season, it is perfect for off-season.
Meig’s Point: The second popular choice for family photography is the “rocky” end of the beach. This location allows me to create some different, often moody photographs. I love the way the rocks create features in the photos and allow me to vary the posing. There is a large fallen tree that allows for some unique photos and beautiful backdrops. This location also has a path through the green shrubs and trees, allowing a variety of images to be captured. What’s also great about this part of the beach is that there are often fewer people, even during the season. This spot also allows dogs and has a number of “hidden” spots that hide us from the wind. One thing to note about Meig’s point is that if you are doing a classic session, we will only have time for either the hidden rock spot OR the jetty but not both.
Bauer Farm in Madison CT
This is by far the most versatile location. It features a rustic barn, a wooden path, stunning foliage in the Fall, beautiful weeping willows, a couple of ponds, and even a covered bridge.
If you want flexibility in time of day or a beautiful scene regardless of time of year, this is my go-to locations. The weeping willow photographs beautifully in the Spring and summer. The trees are incredibly vibrant with color during the Fall.
Morning light (great option for young kids!)
Fall – the most stunning backdrop for Fall photos, hands down
Spring/Summer
Parmalee Farm in Killingworth CT
Another Fall favorite is Parmalee Farm in Killingworth. This location is still one of my fav “secret” spots and therefore is not crowded at all! There are beautiful buildings, lots of Fall foliage and great features that photograph beautifully year round.
Some unique features is a wooded “tunnel” path (you can see it in the top two photos on the left), a gorgeous rock wall and a little pond.
Chatfield Hollow in Killingworth CT
Another very versatile location. This state park has so many beautiful spots including a gorgeous path, a bridge, New England rock wall, and a lake. This location works any time of year and any time of day.
The one caveat is that the front gate could be closed off season and we would be limited in what adorable spots we could walk to. If you don’t mind a little walk, this place is gorgeous.
When selecting this location, make sure to tell me which features appeal to you the most – this park is very large and it can take a while to drive from one spot to another.
Chamard Vineyard in Clinton CT
Chamard Vineyard is another unique spot for your family’s photos! From gorgeous vines to a water feature and a beautiful rock wall, this place is too cute to skip. Bonus? Check out their wine selection and absoutely delicious restaurant.
Chaffinch Island Park in Guilford CT
A real hidden gem, Chaffinch is an adorable spot for your family’s portraits. With some trees, a view of the sound, and a marsh, this location offers a unique backdrop.
Like any beach locations, this spot is best right at sunset so pick your date carefully!
Lavender Farm in Killingworth CT (seasonal)
One of the most unique and beautiful places I’ve ever visited. Lavender Farm is incredibly limited due to seasonality as well as the location availability – these shoots are done during the month of July only.
A very important note: there are a LOT of bees surrounding the Lavender. They are incredibly friendly and do not bother anyone. However, If someone in your family is allergic, it is best to skip this location.
Please be aware that dates/times must be approved by the farm owners and there is a fee to use this location.
Cherry Blossoms in New Haven CT (seasonal)
Cherry Blossoms have a peak which lasts about 1 week in April. Talk about limited! If this is something you are interested in, we are best off trying to pick a weeknight during the predicted peak.
This is a premium location as it falls outside of the 15 mile radius.
Tree Farm in Durham CT (seasonal)
Another seasonal location but with a bit more flexibility. I often host limited number of Holiday mini sessions at this location at the end of October/beginning of November. Custom dates can be booked as well!
Please be aware that dates/times must be approved by the farm owners and there is a fee to use this location.
Harkness State Park in Waterford CT (a Premium location)
This gorgeous park has everything to make your family session truly stand out. From a beautiful mansion with columns and gorgeous gardens, to fields and tall grass, to the water. It’s truly amazing.
One caveat is that I recommend choosing this location during a weeknight. Harkness State Park is extremely popular and weekends can feel a little overwhelming.
The Wadsworth Mansion at Long Hill in Middletown CT (a Premium location)
This stunning location has a ton to offer and is best booked on a weeknight. Stunning During peak season there are events that will shut down access to this location.
Old Saybrook Inn in Old Saybrook CT
The Greenhouse in Middletown CT (a Premium location)
Stunning location that’s a great “indoor” option off-season. There are 3 distinct sets that change depending on season/decor.
Please be aware that this location has to be scheduled with the owners and there is a location fee.
