THE BEST PLACES TO PHOTOGRAPH IN RHODE ISLAND

We are studio photographers, but when we aren’t at Studio Newport, we are on location!

That’s because Rhode Island might be the smallest state, but it’s bursting with picturesque locations that are perfect for portrait photography. From stunning coastal landscapes to historic urban settings, the Ocean State offers a wide variety of backdrops to make your portraits truly shine.

Where are the best places for photography in Rhode Island?

1. Newport’s Cliff Walk: Newport, Rhode Island, is known for mansions and a scenic coastlines. The Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile long public access walkway, meanders along the rugged shoreline, providing dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the magnificent mansions. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to capture breathtaking portraits with the soft, golden light.

2. Beavertail State Park: Beavertail State Park, located at the southern tip of Jamestown, offers some of the most stunning coastal views in the state. The rocky cliffs, crashing waves, and the iconic Beavertail Lighthouse provide an excellent backdrop for portraits that encapsulate the raw beauty of Rhode Island’s coast.

3. Napatree Point Conservation Area: This sandy peninsula in Watch Hill offers serene coastal landscapes, dunes, and salt marshes, providing ample opportunities for nature photography.

4. Roger Williams Park: Roger Williams Park in Providence is a large urban park that offers diverse settings for portrait photography. The meticulously maintained rose garden, Victorian architecture, and the Japanese Gardens provide colorful and serene backgrounds, while the swan boats on the park’s ponds add an extra backdrop.

5. Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy: This hidden gem in Providence offers panoramic views of the city skyline, forests, and rolling hills, providing a unique perspective for photographers seeking to capture urban and natural landscapes in one frame.

6. RISD Campus: The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) campus in Providence is an eclectic place, perfect for portrait photography. The contemporary architecture, unique sculptures, and vibrant murals make it an ideal location for creative and avant-garde portrait sessions. Explore the campus for colorful and unconventional backdrops.

7. Narragansett Town Beach: If you’re looking for a classic beach setting, Narragansett Town Beach is the ideal spot. The sandy shores, rolling waves, and the iconic Coast Guard House provide a quintessential coastal backdrop. The golden hour is the perfect time to capture warm and glowing beach portraits.

8. Colt State Park: Colt State Park, in Bristol, offers a wide range of backdrops, from manicured lawns to natural woodlands. The park’s charming stone bridges and open fields create a diverse range of settings for your portrait sessions. It’s especially beautiful during the fall when the foliage transforms the park into a vibrant display of colors.

9. Federal Hill: Known as Providence’s “Little Italy,” Federal Hill is a vibrant neighborhood with bustling streets, Italian restaurants, and colorful storefronts. It’s a great spot for street photography and candid portraits, capturing the energy and diversity of the city.

10. Pawtucket’s Slater Mill Historic Site: Just a short drive from Providence, Slater Mill Historic Site in Pawtucket is a well-preserved industrial site from the early 19th century. The rustic setting, including old mill buildings and wooden bridges, provides a unique and vintage backdrop for portrait photography.