We know your search for the perfect place to take your portraits can be as stressful as your reception venue hunt, especially when you've got so many options. That's why we talked to our favorite Southern New England photographers to narrow down the best choices. Whether you're looking for seaside shots or a city backdrop, we've got you covered -- plus we'll explain what you should know before you plan a session there.
Town Neck Beach in Sandwich, MA
"This is my favorite spot! It has a boardwalk, beautiful marshlands, accessible dunes, a beach on Cape Cod bay and jetties that are perfect for taking photos. It can get busy during warmer months, but it's large enough that it's not too difficult to find areas without people. Parking is $10 during the day in the summer and free after 4 p.m. year-round." -- Elizabeth Horne, Elizabeth Horne Photography, Marshfield, MA, ElizabethHornePhotography.com
The State House in Providence, RI
"If the weather's not cooperating for an outdoor shoot, the State House is a favorite location for many brides who need an indoor space. You need to get permission to have portraits taken there, but it's well worth asking. The high ceilings, detailed rotunda and impressive staircase lend themselves to gorgeous photos." -- Lisa Frechette, Lisa Frechette Photography, Coventry, RI, LisaFrechette.com
The lawn at Wychmere Harbor Beach & Tennis Club in Harwich Port, MA
"The lawn is always green and beautiful, and the harbor in the background is free of boats and homes, making for a scenic backdrop. There's plenty of parking available if you're getting married at the venue, but otherwise you'll need special permission to take photos." -- Pamela Price, Price Images, Marshfield, MA, PriceImages.com
Easton's Beach Carousel in Newport, RI
"The carousel at Easton's Beach inspires playfulness in couples and wedding parties! It adds a whole new level to formals and gives depth and color to what can be otherwise ‘boring' shots. No permit is needed, but there is a small fee to ride the carousel." -- Kristin Spencer, Kristin Spencer Photography, Pawtucket, RI, KristinSpencer.com
Gardens at Saint Mary's Church in Barnstable, MA
"Behind this old church are sprawling gardens, complete with a fountain, two gazebos, a bridge over a stream and, from a photography standpoint, loads of potential -- even in the middle of winter! It can provide some beautiful snowy scenes. No permit or fee is required and there's plenty of church parking, but I wouldn't recommend going on a Sunday morning!" -- Anna Meagher, Anna Meagher Photography, Marstons Mills, MA, AnnaMeagher.com
World's End in Hingham, MA
"This beautiful park has wonderful old trees and a view of the Boston skyline. It also has trails for a woodsier look. The cost is $5 per person to get into the park, and you need to call beforehand and sign a waiver." -- Elizabeth Horne, Elizabeth Horne Photography
Sandy Beach in Cohasset, MA
"This is one of the only public beaches in Cohasset, and it has wonderful rocks, a beautiful lighthouse and, on a practical note, not a ton of seaweed. Your photographer does need to get permission from the town." -- Pamela Price, Price Images
Colt State Park in Bristol, RI
"Between backdrops of lush trees, water and stone walls, there's an area that can satisfy any couple." -- Lisa Frechette, Lisa Frechette Photography
Brenton Point State Park in Newport, RI
"For the most part, any time you see that picturesque cliff shot from a Newport wedding, this is where it was taken. The contrast of the cliffs, rocks and waves complements both formal and casual wedding parties. There are no permits or fees, and there's lots of free parking." -- Kristin Spencer, Kristin Spencer Photography
The playground at Barnstable-West Barnstable Elementary School in West Barnstable, MA
"Really fun shots can be taken on this expansive wooden structure built to look like a castle. It has all the standard playground stuff -- monkey bars, slides and swings -- and then a green, hilly background for more subdued photos. It's also close to the beach, so you can get a variety of photos. You can only shoot after school hours -- usually after 4 p.m. -- but there's no fee or permit required." -- Anna Meagher, Anna Meagher Photography
-- Caitlin Moscatello