Planning your Newport Engagement Session

So you’re planning a Newport Engagement Session?… You’ve come to the right place! Now that you’ve decided to take the plunge into forever together, it’s time to memorialize this exciting time in your life with your very own engagement session. Whether you’re a “Rhodey” local or planning a destination wedding in our small but amazing state, what better backdrop for your love story than the picturesque coastal setting of Newport, Rhode Island?

Choosing the Perfect Location

Newport is one of our favorite spots for engagement sessions, not only because of its limitless portrait locations; that offer serious New England Charm… But It’s also the perfect destination to transition into date night after we finish. I mean, you’re already looking so cute… so why not Right!? Don’t forget to check out our guide on all our favorite spots to grab dinner and drinks after your session!

First things first, you’ll need to consider what kind of vibe you are going for. Newport can provide everything from beach shores and nautical wharfs to romantic garden settings and historic mansions that rival the sets of Bridgerton and Downton Abbey.

Here are some of the most iconic Newport Engagement Session Locations:

Cliff Walk

Embark on a scenic stroll along the Cliff Walk, where rugged coastline meets historic mansions. This iconic location offers jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean. We recommend planning this location for golden hour, for extra dreamy and ethereal shots. Depending on which side of Cliff Walk we start on, our couples often choose to incorporate a secondary location like the Salve Campus, or Easton Beach. This will provide you with a variety of images and backdrops. 

Ocean Drive & Brenton Point Park

Crashing waves and winding roads that follow a rocky shoreline more your vibe… consider any of the many picture worth stops along Newports most picturesque drives. What we love about this spot is how it transforms at sunset.

Newport Mansions

Step into a fairytale world by incorporating the opulent Newport mansions into your photoshoot. The architecture, gardens, and grandeur of these estates provide an elegant backdrop for your love story. Be sure to visit the Preservation society of Newport County for the most up to date information on which mansions are available to hold your session at. 

Historical streets

Rich with history and refinement the streets of Newport offer the perfect backdrop for today’s sophisticated couple looking to take a walk down memory lane. Some of our favorites are around the Salve Regina Campus, Belleview Ave, and Thames Street.

Castle Hill Lighthouse

The Castle Hill Light House stands as one of Newports most recognizable icons as well as a dreamy photo location for proposals and engagement sessions alike.

The Vineyards

Newport Vineyard is nestled on over 100 acres of preserved historic farmland, and boasts 50 acres of lush grape vines making it a popular location for engagement sessions. Inside you will find a rustic/industrial designed tasting room which can provide variety from the natural backdrop of the meadow.

While Newport Vineyard is perhaps the better known vineyard in the Newport area, my personal favorite is Greenvale Vineyards. This vineyard boast views of the grapevines set against the backdrop of the sparkling waters of the Sakonnet River. Engagement sessions on this beautiful property require a purchase of their delicious wines, which you can first sample at your own private tasting. This makes for a fun “warm up” to your portrait session, and you’ll get to walk away with a souvenir, which we love! 

The Wharfs & Queen Annes Square

Immerse yourselves in Newport’s vibrant maritime scene at Bowen’s Wharf. Quaint cobblestone streets, charming shops, and bustling waterfront make for lively and captivating photos. This setting is also super close to Queen Annes Square, which sits central to a few of my favorite historical streets. The blend of settings makes for a fun and versatile Engagement Session. 

Sailboat Ride

Speaking of Maritime vibes, what’s more “Newport” than sailing into the sunset on a private charter? If you’re looking for something a bit more exclusive or intimate a sailboat session could be just the thing. We love sailing with our couples as it makes for an even more memorable experience.

Newports First and Second Beach

Newport is blessed with beautiful beaches such as Easton’s Beach (First Beach) and Sachuest Beach (Second Beach). Soft sands, rolling waves, and golden sunsets create a romantic seaside setting for your engagement session. It’s almost always a must for our couples to get their toes in the sand at some point in their session.

Making the Most of Your Newport Engagement Session

Now that you’ve chosen your ideal location, here are some tips to ensure your engagement session in Newport is nothing short of magical:

1. Timing is Key: We encourage you to plan your Newport Engagement Session for golden hour to take advantage of the soft, golden light that bathes Newport in a warm, enchanting glow. Sunset sessions are our favorite! And it makes for perfect timing for late night dinner reservations for you to toast to a successful engagement session!
2. Dress to Impress: Choose outfits that reflect your personal style while complementing each other. Opt for coordinating colors and avoid busy patterns that may distract from the main focus—you and your love.
3. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Consider incorporating props or accessories that hold sentimental value or add visual interest to your photoshoot. From a vintage bicycle to a bouquet of fresh flowers, let your creativity shine. If you need help finding a local florist we’ve got you covered!
4. Plan for traffic and parking: Depending on where in Newport you decide to hold your session, you may want to give yourself extra time to find parking and allot for traffic, especially during the summer season.
5. Relax and Have Fun: Remember, this photoshoot is about celebrating your love and connection. Relax, be yourselves, and let your genuine emotions shine through. Candid moments often make for the most beautiful photos… and we promise those are the ones that will bring you the most joy when you look back in the years to come.
6. Trust Your Photographer: You’ve chosen us to capture your love story, for a reason. Trusting in our expertise and vision, allows for our creative minds and serving hearts to really customize your experience. We encourage you to communicate openly with us about your preferences and ideas, and we LOVE when we are allowed the creative freedom to work our magic.

Let’s do this!

We are so excited to help you make the most of your Newport Engagement Session. By choosing the right location, following these tips, and embracing the moment, you’re sure to create timeless memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Happy planning, and here’s to love, laughter, and happily ever after!