The 5 best spots in Providence for engagement photos

A newly engaged couple hugging in Waterplace Park in Providence, RI.

What are engagement photos?

Typically, when we talk about engagement photos or an engagement session — we’re talking about a short portrait shoot for couples after they’re engaged. Not to be confused with proposal photos! An engagement session is an amazing way for you to practice in front of the camera before your wedding, get beautiful shots of you and your partner for the save-the-dates cards, your wedding website, or just the fridge at home. It’s also a great way to get to know your photographer a bit, so that you’re not meeting them for the first time on your wedding day. In my experience, couples who have had an engagement session are always more relaxed with photos during the getting ready period and right before the ceremony. I am based in Rhode Island, if you’re searching for a photographer a bit further west, check out From The Rooftops.

A couple dancing in downtown Providence.

Engagement session locations in Providence

Providence, RI has so many wonderful spots for quick 1-2 hour long engagement portrait shoots. Here are a few of my favorites that tend to work well year round :)

  1. Waterplace Park

    Easily one of my favorite spots in Providence. I personally just love being around water, and although this might not be the best spot in the middle of winter, it’s hard to beat the views over Woonasquatucket River and downtown Providence.

  2. College Hill

    Close to both Brown University and RISD, College Hill is so New England, haha! College street between the two schools can also be easily added to a session that includes more locations within central Providence.

  3. RI State House

    The steps and the outside areas around the Rhode Island State House are perfect for couples who ‘d like something a bit more minimal (and classical.) The off-white steps and building offer some unique opportunity for pictures you kind of just can’t get elsewhere in Providence.

  4. India Point Park

    Overlooking Providence Harbor and a part of the Providence River area, this small park is ideal for a shoot for couples who’d like outdoor shots but don’t necessarily want to travel hours for them.

  5. Roger Williams Park

    The Botanical center at RWP is a photographer’s dream! This is New England’s largest botanical center and obviously there are fees and permits required to shoot there. An hour long engagement session has a $150 permit fee which has to be presented at the start of the session.

  6. Crescent Park Carousel

    Last but not least, for all the hopeless romantics out there. Photos on the carousel right after sunset on a warm summer night. Can’t beat that!

A couple standing in Roger Williams Park Botanical Center.