These are some of my favorite places to photograph engagement sessions in Connecticut. We are so lucky to have so many wonders in our state. So in no particular order here are my top 5. Enjoy!
Lovers Leap State Park-
Located in New Milford It is a walk-in park with hiking trails, scenic vistas and historic ruins. The 160-acre park located on the Housatonic River. Lover’s Leap State Park has a number of trails split into three sections. There are the Old Factory Trails, the Waramaug Loop, and the Hurd Estate Trails. Each has their own sights including a castle and overlooks of Lake Lilinonah. The historic iron bridge is frequently the main attraction. There are so many nooks and crannies that make this one of my top locations in any season. If you are into local legend The leap of Lover’s Leap is a rock formation overlooking Lake Lilinonah where, “tradition has it, that the Pootatuck Indian Chief Waramaug’s daughter, Princess Lillinonah, and her lover plunged to their deaths.” Cue dramatic music...
Gillette Castle State Park-
Gillette Castle State Park straddles the towns of East Haddam and Lyme, Connecticut, sitting high above the Connecticut River. The castle was originally a private residence commissioned and designed by William Gillette, an American actor who is most famous for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes on stage. It has hiking trails, ponds, and scenic drop offs. What I love about this place is that when you walk up to this estate it’s like you are being thrown into medieval times. Makes you feel like you want to be a fair maiden taken by a charming knight.
Harkness Memorial State Park-
Located in Waterford enjoy the panoramic views of Long Island Sound from Eolia, the elegant summer mansion of the Harkness family set on over 230 seaside acres of sweeping lawns, with stately trees and spectacular gardens. This place gives you everything you could want in a photoshoot. From the beach at sunset, the regal mansion feels, or the beautifully landscaped gardens this on my list for sure for my clients.
Wickham Park-
Located in Manchester offers 280 acres of gardens, open fields, woodlands, and ponds. Each garden is something to be seen with a unique theme all their own. From English, Irish, Italian, Lotus, Oriental, and Scottish gardens just to name a few; there is something here for everyone.
New Haven-
Located in the heart of New Haven I mean what is not to like! The architecture of Yale’s prestigious buildings, Lighthouse Point, the urban feel of the streets, Edgerton Park, Wooster square during cherry blossom season… Come on people I could go on and on and on… but I won’t… I’ll leave it up to you to check it out.
If you have any questions on your engagement shoot or need some fun out of the box ideas for your photoshoot, please contact the studio at support@angelstarrphotography.com or 203.208.4957