Top 5 Engagement Shoot Locations in Rhode Island

Couples can sometimes get caught up on choosing a location for their engagement shoot (whether you should have an engagement shoot is another blog post for another time, the short answer is, yes.) This blog post compiles of some of our favorite places to date!

When choosing a spot, we like to first defer to the couple as to what they like: nature, the city, their home, etc. Personally, we love nature and we've found that Rhode Island has plenty of versatile spots from the cliffs of Jamestown to the trails of The Audubon Society.

Botanical Gardens

Providence, RI

You really can't beat the Botanical Gardens in Roger Williams Park. There's nowhere else like it, and can be shot in year round which helps for those wintery sessions, not to mention that the light is always great!

brett+bryce (13 of 173).jpg

Fort Wetherill

Jamestown, RI

We've been dying to check out Fort Wetherill and once we got to scope it out, we definitely were not disappointed! This intimate, beach scene is a great fit for those who aren't afraid of the water and love a little adventure!

fort wetheril

Fort Adams

Newport, RI

We love Fort Adams for its historic, rustic, and non-traditional feel! It has tons of halls, stairways, and greens to explore, making it the perfect place to get some of the best shots!

john and sarah engagement fort adams (65 of 79).jpg

Second Beach

Newport, RI

Who doesn't love the beach? Second Beach in Newport, RI is our favorite seaside spot to catch those classic, bold, and bright wedding engagement photos that everyone loves! You really can't go wrong with its minimalistic and airy look.

Alex + Taylor (16 of 61).jpg

Forty Steps

Newport, RI

And last but certainly not least, we couldn't talk about engagement sessions without mentioning Forty Steps in Newport! Navigating its rough terrain is always a blast, and makes for some dramatic and beautiful engagement photos!

40 steps newport ri

Steph + Nathan

Fort Adams + Regatta Place

Newport, RI

It was such an honor getting to photograph Steph and Nathan’s intimate Newport wedding this past September! Multiple wedding venues made for a beautiful varieties of locations. Fort Adams and Regatta Place are some of our favorite venues to photograph in Newport, Rhode Island! Steph and Nathan purchased the “I Do Too” Photography package, so with two wedding photographers on hand we were able to capture every detail! The day looked rustic and elegant, and felt effortless and beautiful! Take a peek below!

Florist: Le Isle Rose

Hair Stylist: B Lovely

DJ/Band: Epic Entertainment        

Venue: Fort Adams + The Regatta Place

Makeup: B Lovely

Dan + Sarah

FORT WETHERILL

Jamestown, RI

As wedding photographers, our hope is that being in front of the camera is never nerve-wracking and always a good time! Dan and Sarah were able to keep cool and have a blast at their wedding engagement session at Fort Wetherill in Jamestown, Rhode Island. This relaxed, intimate park just outside of Newport, Rhode Island created the best atmosphere for an adventure with Sean, their wedding photographer. Between playful splashes in the water to cozying up in their towels, this couple was able to have a memorable time getting to know their wedding photographer, and they got some stunning photos as a result! Stay tuned for their wedding photos and wedding highlight video shot at Glen Manor House in Portsmouth, Rhode Island!

Sam + Jeff

Blithewold Mansion

Bristol, RI 

This time last year, we had the pleasure of capturing photos and video for Sam and Jeff’s dream wedding at the beautiful Blithewold Mansion in Bristol, Rhode Island! We had the best time exploring the Mansion’s lush grounds during their first look and bridal party session. The romantic atmosphere and tasteful decor choices made for bright, clean wedding photos that everybody loves! Sam and Jeff purchased the Deluxe, which is one of our most popular wedding photography and wedding videography combo packages! This wound up being the perfect package to capture everything for Jeff and Sam not just in their photos, but also in their wedding highlight video! Check it out below:

Venue: Blithewold Mansion

Florist: Leslie Floral Design

Hair Stylist: Ali Lomazzo Beauty

Makeup Artist: Ali Lomazzo Beauty

DJ/Band: Encore Wilson Stevens

Invitations: Weekend Paper Company

Brett + Bryce

Roger Williams Botanical Gardens + Coventry Sand Dunes

Cranston, RI

The Botanical Gardens in Providence, Rhode Island became the perfect oasis for Brett and Bryce's mid-winter wedding engagement session. We love coming to this tropical greenhouse year-round for both engagements and weddings! Afterwards, we braved the cold at the Coventry Sand Dunes to get some beautiful, classic beach shots. It may have been January, but the results were totally worth it! Brett and Bryce's photos were taken by Sean as part of the Deluxe package: one of our most popular offers for wedding photography and wedding videography. Their taste for adventure and sense of fun made for one of our most memorable shoots to date! We can't wait for their wedding at the Providence G Ballroom in Providence, RI!  

Boston Harbor Distillery

Dorchester, MA

The Boston Harbor Distillery's industrial vibe and rich history made for an incredible wedding venue! Cristen & Co pulled together this stunning styled shoot and we were so thankful to have been a part of it. This wasn't your traditional wedding look: it was cozy, rustic, and classy all at the same time. If you're looking to have a wedding that stands out, this could just be the right inspiration you need!

Event Planning & Design: Cristen & Co.
Venue & Cocktails: Boston Harbor Distillery
Invitations & Stationary: The Paper Perfectionist
Floral: Nectar
Event Rentals: Peterson Party Center
Vintage Furniture & Prop Rentals: Kadeema Rentals
Hair & Makeup: Top Knot
Desserts: Sweet Indulgences
Bridal Boutique: Your Dream Bridal
Suit: The Black Tux
Bride's Dress: Truvelle
Wedding Rings & Jewelry: E. Scott Originals
Napkins: The Everyday Co. 

 

Howard + Shreya

Belle Mer

Newport, RI

We had an amazing time with Howard and Shreya during their three-day weekend wedding. They incorporated both their cultures, religions, and traditions into their ceremonies. It was fun, full of energy, and most importantly highlighted their love.  This will be a weekend we will never forget! Howard and Shreya purchased the Deluxe Too package, which includes photo and video! Photos were taken by Sean and Tiahna, and video was shot by Josh and Andre. Check it out!

Curtis + Kim

Beavertail State Park

Newport, RI

It was a beautiful night at Beavertail State Park when we photographed Curtis and Kim. The colorful sunset, warm weather, and incredible beachy scenery dazzled this couple on their engagement shoot. We loved everything about it! Kim and Curtis had their engagement photos taken by Sean as a part of their I Do Too Photo package. The next time we'll see these two is when they tie the knot this September! 

Tops'l Farm

Waldoboro, Maine

This styled shoot was created for the Southern New England Weddings magazine at Tops'l Farm in Maine. It's bohemian flare and outdoor setting made it the perfect place to photograph. Many couples have followed it's lead since, embracing a more rustic vibe for their special day. 

Venue: Tops'l Farm
Magazine: Southern New England Weddings Magazine
Event Planner & Designer: Cristen & Co.
Props & Vintage Rentals: Cristen & Co. Decor Collection
Makeup: Amanda McCarthy Beauty
Hair: Hair That Moves
Floral: Bad Rabbit Flowers
Farm Table Rental: Lighthouse Woodworks
Desserts: Ellie's Bakery
Stationary: The Paper Perfectionist
Linen Rentals: BBJ Linens
Chair Rentals: Peak Event Services
Catering: Harvest Moon Catering
Bridal Gown & Bridesmaid Dresses: Flair
Suit: Anthony's House of Formals

Jay + Jaimie

Alrich Mansion

Warwick, RI

Jay and Jaimie kicked off the year with their stunning winter wedding at the Aldrich Mansion. Jay and Jaimie purchased the I Do Video package and was shot by Sean. Everything from Jaimie's dress to the floral details made this day feel like a daydream. We had an awesome time capturing video of their wedding from start to finish!

Mike + Lindsay

Ocean House

Westerly, RI

Prepare for a lot of pictures! Mike and Lindsay were such a fun couple so there's quite a few photos we wanted to share to give you a glimpse into their big day! This California couple knew how to party, it was a truly memorable event! Thanks so much for choosing Move Mountains Co to capture your day!

Venue: Ocean House 

Wedding Planner: Jennifer Brinton

Florist: Flowerthyme

DJ: DJ Valentina

Makeup: Jessica D’Amore

Hair Stylist: Wavelengths Salon

Enrico + Elizabeth

Rosecliff Mansion

Newport, RI

Enrico and Elizabeths wedding was nothing short of epic! Starting on a Friday night with a sailboat ride in Newport, Saturday night's rehearsal dinner at Castle Hill Inn and the main wedding happening Sunday at Rosecliff Mansion.

Venue Rosecliff
Rehearsal Dinner Venue Castle Hill Inn
Catering Russell Morins
Hair + Makeup Frank + Antonio Hair + Makeup
Suits Geno Suits You
Hair Stylist Frank Antonio Hair and Makeup
Dresses Mia Bridal Couture
Cake Confectionary Designs
Limo A Formal Limo
Florist The Flower Girls

Vinay + Aditi

Bel Mer
Newport, RI

Wow! What can I say about Vinay and Aditi, their love and friendship for each other was unmatched and their 3 day Indian wedding was next level! Love you, guys!

 

 

Venue 2 Gurney's
Venue Belle Mer
Wedding Planner BluePrint Occasions
Decor Love Decor
DJ Silk Events
Caterer Rasoi
Henna Henna Cafe
Makeup Shades By Sahar
Horse New Deal Carriage

Kyle + Nadine

New Bedford Whaling Museum

New Bedford, MA

Kyle & Nadine Trudeau, along with the help of wedding planner Cristen & Co, managed to combine a traditional Coptic Orthodox wedding ceremony along with a personal and intimate exchange of vows - creating a beautiful double-ceremony wedding. The reception that followed intertwined Nadine's Middle Eastern culture along with the couples American side to fashion a night that guests and the couple would not forget. Instead of a wedding cake, the couple had a doughnut bar from PVDonuts; and to bring a "New England" touch they used hand collected sea shells to use as place cards. Here are some of our favorite pictures from the couples fabulous day. 

 

Event Design + Coordination: Cristen & Co

Photography: Move Mountains Co. 

Reception Venue: New Bedford Whaling Museum

Catering: Russel Morin Catering & Events

 

,

Tyler + Brynn

,

roger williams botanical gardens

Cranston, RI

 

Wedding Planner: Mikayla Tudino
Caterer: Lafrance Hospitality
Videographer: Move Mountains Co.
Florist: Golden Gate
Hair Stylist: Heather Nelson
DJ/Band: James Daft
Invitations: Gail Carley and Susie Keeler

Heath + Andreea

Newport Beach House

Newport, RI

We had an awesome time capturing Heath & Andreea's special day at the Newport Beach House. This beach venue perfectly complimented our couple's free-spirited joy and their boho look. Take a look at some of our favorite shots! 

Hair + Makeup by Jennie Kay Beauty

Music by Murray Hill + Tom Pendergast

Invitations by Minted

 

Anthony + Kristina

It's been a while since our last blog post, we are catching up from a very busy wedding season. This was our first 2017 Wedding and we are excited to share it with you. 

Vision for the wedding:
Anthony and I wanted our wedding to be fun and laid-back. That inspired us to opt-out of a lot of traditional wedding expectations. For example, we did not have a wedding party and chose not do any of the wedding ceremony traditions like introducing the couple, first dance, cutting the cake, or throwing the bouquet. For us, we wanted people to eat, drink, dance, sing, and get to hang out, so this format worked. Our families and friends are also very important to us, so we also wanted to have as many people as possible, while also trying to keep the cost down. Finally, I really wanted to have the wedding on Johnson’s Pond where I grew up. The location was really important because that property has been in my family for generations.

The vibe:
Fun and relaxed! We wanted to throw a good party that people would remember and talk about for years to come! We also wanted to be able to enjoy ourselves, which for my mother, mother-in-love, and grandmother-in-love, and me meant getting our hair and make-up done by the fantastic Racquel Vople and Brittany Kosztala of Bridal Beauty by BKRV. My cousin, Michelle Lussier, also did all of our nails that day. This addition made our morning enjoyable and less stressful then needing to get ourselves ready for the big day. So many of our friends provided special touches, such as the Gravikord Trio, who played during our ceremony. We also wanted all those we loved around us, so the family dogs attended the wedding and our dog, Violet, made in impromptu trip down the aisle just ahead of my mother and me. Those special touches made our wedding so important and unique to us. We also truly wanted our guests to enjoy themselves. We served our favorite foods, brewed our own beer, picked out great wines, and coupled that with a super great cover band, Not For Nuthin’. It all came together for a great night of celebration!

The look:
We were so lucky to be able to have the wedding on the pond. Family friends let us use their beautiful home-made wood tables, chairs, runners, and centerpieces. Anthony’s grandmother is a florist, and she designed the centerpieces, which were planters with flowers, herbs, and veggies. We also borrowed tons of antique vases from my grandparents and filled them with tulips to place around the property. Another great addition was being able to borrow antique tables, table clothes, and chairs to use for decorations throughout. My brother made the arbor we were married under out of birch from out property and a close family friend made us the stained-glass window that hung in it for a wedding gift. It was a last-minute decision to place it in the arbor, but it was perfect there. It was wonderful to see objects from so many people we love surrounding us on our special day. Along those same lines, I wore my grandmother’s wedding dress, altered by the amazing seamstress, Linda Yeaw. My grandmother had saved her dress for me, but she passed away before I was married. The dress had been hand-made for her by a member of our church, over 60 years ago.

Who we are as people:
Anthony and I met through mutual rock climbing friends. We enjoy the camping, climbing, hiking, fishing, hunting, and all things outdoors. For example, we spent our two-month honeymoon road-tripping across the US and Canada visiting friends and destination climbing areas. We are both very family-oriented and having our family attend our wedding was really important. Not only are we so thankful that many of our family and friends were able to travel such long distances to attend our wedding, but also that many showed up in advance to help us get ready! We could not have done it without all your love and support and we thank you all so much!

Vendors:
Band Not for Nuthin'
Caterer Russel Morin Catering
Hair Stylist Bridal Beauty by BKRV

,

Fort Adam's and Her Siren

,

Inspiration and Initiative

This shoot was inspired by Ben Sasso's work! if you don't know who he is make sure you check out his stuff. I love his style, the type of models he chooses, his often odd prop choices, simple wardrobe choices, and his willingness to help other artists like myself, as I attribute 95% of my photography knowledge from pestering other photographers.

Fort Adam's and Her Siren

Fort Adam's was built in 1798 and named after President John Adam's and was active in five major wars. Today it's a State Park, has a great vibe and is a great place to shoot (no pun intended). The inner rooms are covered in old shiplap and there are antique couches floating around that are great for creative shoots, wedding shoots and engagement photos!

I'd been wanting to shoot at Fort Adam's ever since we helped load film for John Abbott as he photographed up and coming Jazz artist's at the Newport's Jazz Festival or maybe it's been since my best friend got married there back in 2015 (truly a unique wedding venue!)

Since we are mostly in the wedding photography game it's rare that we get a chance to get to work on purely creative projects but it's always a joy when we are able to. This was the first time I had shot Briana and I couldn't be more pleased with the results. She was perfect for the fort and brought the exact energy to the shoot that I hoped she would, although as hard as I persisted she would not play that trumpet (or bugle, not pictured).

Frequency Separation

For photographers...

For the editing I used Ben Sasso's Heck Yeah Presets (The Bright Pack) with Lightroom/Photoshop and a method of photo retouching called frequency separation. It was my second time working with this method. I originally went with using the first tutorial I found on Youtube here, but wasn't getting the results I wanted. I emailed Ben and he sent over the video that he learned from which seems like an even more time consuming method but I think the results are better (however, at that point I was about 75% through the photos and couldn't start over). That video can be found here. 

If you look at the results of the process, it is definitely worth the time invested.

Canon 5D Mark III / Canon 24-70 II / Heck Yeah Presets / Adobe Creative Suite