For their engagement session, Madhvi and Keith picked Halibut Point State Park, in Rockport, MA. The timing could not have been better, either, because it was one of the cooler days during a heatwave, AND the freakin’ golden hour that day was about as golden as it gets.
Did I geek out about Madhvi’s British accent? Obviously. Did I nerd it up over art-house horror movies with Keith, a fellow film buff? You know I did. But what else did we do? We scaled cliffs! We ran around in spectacular light with seagulls overhead! I slipped on algae-coated rocks and fell on my ass into a tidal pool, washing away all traces of my dignity into the sea. (If only I had gotten photos of it!)
I don’t like fake moments in my photos–I try to avoid them at all costs–so I told them we were just going to be hanging out and going for a walk while I shot them. I encouraged them to just be with each other, enjoy each other’s presence. And so if Madhvi is smiling in the pictures, it’s because Keith is making her smile. If she is laughing, Keith is making her laugh. Just like in their relationship. Real moments, unstaged. They didn’t “act natural”; they WERE natural. This is the charm of being a documentary wedding photographer, I actually get to capture real moments rather than create them.
But that itself can feel unnatural to people, who have gone their whole lives being told to look at the camera and smile. I tell my couples DON’T look at the camera. And it may feel awkward at first, but they soon realize that it feels good to not pretend and to not force anything. If I see that they need more loosening up, of course, I’ll give them a nudge with a game to play with each other, and then that opens them right up to the candid moments that make up real life.
Anyway. Here are some pros and sons for an engagement session at Halibut Point State Park:
Pros
Scenic Views: The park boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged granite formations, and a scenic quarry pond. These diverse landscapes provide a picturesque backdrop for engagement photos.
Variety of Settings: From its coastal cliffs, flat seaside rocks to sit on, and tree-surrounded paths, Halibut Point offers a range of settings that can add depth and variety to your photo shoot. MUCH more preferable to “let’s walk in a field.”
Natural Lighting: The park’s natural surroundings allow for beautiful natural light, especially during golden hour and blue hour, when you get to watch the sunset over Ipswich Bay.
Peaceful Atmosphere: The park’s tranquil environment can create a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, perfect for capturing candid, genuine moments between you and your partner.
Unique Features: The park’s historic granite quarry and coastal features provide a distinctive backdrop that sets your photos apart from more conventional locations.
Cons
Crowds: Depending on the time of year and day, the park and the beach area can be busy with hikers and tourists, which is never a real deal-breaker because it’s a pretty large area, and finding a spot for photos is usually not an issue. Though we did have to wait five minutes for a woman, who was apparently TikTok-ing the longest selfie video ever, to relocate….
Limited Amenities: The park doesn’t have extensive facilities like restrooms or shelters, so you may need to plan accordingly and bring essentials like water and comfortable shoes. There were two porta-potties in the parking lot, however.
Accessibility Issues: The terrain can be uneven and rocky, which could pose challenges for folks with mobility issues.
Permits and Regulations: While Halibut Point State Park generally doesn’t require a permit for photography, they do have a fee for parking. Massachusetts residents can expect to pay $5, and out-of-state visitors will have to pay $20. Remember, most photographers (myself include) will require you pay for your vehicle as well as theirs.
Film Engagement Photos
Shot a few photos on the 35mm film Sprocket Rocket. Love the Vibe the sprockets add to the photos! If you’re looking for a photographer who offers film and digital coverage for your next engagement or wedding session in MA or RI, reach out to us here!
