Candid Summer Wedding in Connecticut – Real Moments, Real Love

Looking for a Connecticut wedding photographer who captures real, unscripted moments? You’re in the right place. I specialize in photographing weddings just like this one—sunny, love-filled days where laughter, happy tears, and genuine connection take center stage.

A Summer Wedding to Remember

This summer wedding was everything you’d want from a Connecticut celebration—warm weather, golden light, and a couple whose love radiated through every frame. From the quiet getting-ready moments to the epic dance floor moves under string lights, every second was a story worth remembering.

Why Candid Wedding Photography Matters

I don’t do stiff poses or forced smiles. I’m all about the in-between moments:

• That quick glance between you and your partner during the ceremony
• Your grandma’s emotional hug right after “I do”
• The spontaneous laughs during the toast that caught you by surprise

Candid wedding photography captures your day as it truly felt—so you can relive it over and over again.

Connecticut Has the Perfect Summer Wedding Vibes

Whether you're getting married at a rustic barn in the countryside, a coastal venue with an ocean breeze, or a cozy backyard surrounded by loved ones, Connecticut has no shortage of gorgeous backdrops for your wedding. And summer? It’s the season of golden light, outdoor ceremonies, and barefoot dance floors.

Planning Your Wedding in CT? Let’s Talk

If you're planning a Connecticut wedding and want someone who will capture your day authentically—with all the love, chaos, and magic that makes it yours—I'd love to hear your story. I’m based in Connecticut and travel throughout the state for weddings and elopements.

You bring the love. I’ll bring the camera (and maybe a few tissues for the teary-eyed moments).

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Interested in Booking Your Connecticut Wedding Photographer?

Let’s make some photo magic. Contact me here to check availability or learn more about my candid wedding photography approach.

Connecticut Wedding Venue | March Farm

DJ | Butch Gray

Caterer | The Art of Yum

Wedding Planner | Atlantic Events

Cake | Trew Sterling (man of honor)

Your Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Connecticut

Your Ultimate Guide to Eloping in Connecticut

Crafting a day that's authentically yours, surrounded by the natural beauty of New England.

What Is an Elopement?

Elopements have evolved from secretive ceremonies to intentional celebrations of love. Today, eloping means choosing an intimate, meaningful experience that reflects your unique relationship, free from the pressures of traditional weddings. It's about prioritizing what matters most to you as a couple.

Why Choose Connecticut for Your Elopement?

Connecticut offers a diverse landscape, making it an ideal backdrop for your elopement:

• Coastal Charm: Exchange vows on serene beaches like Hammonasset Beach State Park.
• Woodland Whimsy: Say "I do" amidst the lush greenery of Topsmead State Forest.
• Historic Elegance: Opt for venues like Gillette Castle State Park for a touch of history.
• Seasonal Splendor: Enjoy vibrant fall foliage or blooming spring gardens.

Planning Your Connecticut Elopement: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Envision Your Day

Start by imagining your perfect day. Consider:

• The type of setting you desire (beach, forest, urban).
• The season that resonates with you.
• Activities you'd like to include (hiking, picnicking, etc.).

2. Choose the Right Location

Select a location that aligns with your vision. Research permit requirements and accessibility. Some popular spots include:([Shell Creek Photography][1])

• Wickham Park: Known for its beautiful gardens.
• Eolia Mansion at Harkness Memorial State Park: Offers coastal views and historic architecture.

3. Understand Legal Requirements

To legally marry in Connecticut:

• Obtain a marriage license from the town clerk in the town where the ceremony will occur.
• No waiting period; the license is valid for 65 days.
• An officiant is required, but witnesses are not.

4. Assemble Your Vendor Team

Consider hiring professionals who specialize in elopements:

• Photographer: Captures the essence of your day.
• Officiant: Leads the ceremony.
• Florist: Provides bouquets and decor.
• Hair & Makeup Artist: Helps you look your best.

5. Personalize Your Ceremony

Incorporate elements that reflect your relationship:

• Write your own vows.
• Include a meaningful ritual.
• Choose music that resonates with you.

Tips for a Memorable Elopement

• Embrace the Unexpected: Weather and unforeseen events can add uniqueness to your day.
• Stay Present: Focus on each other and the commitment you're making.
• Document the Journey: Capture moments leading up to, during, and after the ceremony.

Ready to Plan Your Connecticut Elopement?

As a dedicated elopement photographer, I'm here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your day is as unique as your love story. Let's connect and start planning your unforgettable Connecticut elopement.

Contact me to begin your elopement journey

How to Plan the Perfect Surprise Proposal in Connecticut

Tips from a Connecticut Photographer Who's Helped Capture Countless Surprise Wedding Proposals

Planning a surprise wedding proposal is one of the most exciting (and nerve-wracking!) things you’ll ever do. Whether you're popping the question on a scenic beach or at a cozy mountain overlook, Connecticut offers the perfect mix of charm, nature, and romance.

As a Connecticut photographer who’s had the honor of capturing many surprise proposals, I’m here to walk you through the process so it’s as smooth (and magical!) as possible.

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Step 1: Choose the Perfect Connecticut Proposal Location

Location sets the mood — are you going for dramatic, romantic, quiet, or adventurous? Here are some amazing places to propose in Connecticut:

Top Proposal Spots in Connecticut:

• Harkness Memorial State Park (Waterford) – Coastal views, a historic mansion, and manicured gardens.
• Topsmead State Forest (Litchfield) – Rolling hills, meadows, and a storybook cottage.
• Elizabeth Park (West Hartford) – A dreamy rose garden in full bloom in summer.
• Devil’s Hopyard State Park (East Haddam) – A waterfall backdrop for nature lovers.
• Hammonasset Beach State Park (Madison) – Sunset proposals right on the sand.

Bonus tip: Think about the time of day! Sunrise and golden hour give you the softest, most romantic light for photos.

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Step 2: Hire a Proposal Photographer (That’s Me!)

Let’s be real — you’ve put your heart into planning this. Don’t leave the photos to a blurry iPhone. I help with:

• Scouting the location
• Helping you plan your approach (literally)
• Staying hidden until the moment happens
• Capturing the surprise, joy, and the ring
• Optional: a mini engagement session right after the “yes!”

Step 3: Decide How You’ll Pop the Question

You know your partner best. Are they more into big gestures or quiet, intimate moments? Here are some Connecticut proposal ideas:

• The “Scenic Walk” Setup – Suggest a nature walk or park stroll, then propose in a pre-picked spot.
• Picnic Proposal – I can help set up a blanket, charcuterie, and candles in advance.
• Seasonal Surprise – Fall foliage, snowy pines, or spring blooms — Connecticut has it all.
• “Photoshoot Ruse” – Say you’re doing a couples session (great if they love dressing up), then drop to one knee.

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Step 4: The Details Matter

You don’t need a big production, but here are some things that make a proposal even more memorable:

• Have the ring ready and secure
• Dress nicely (but comfortably — we may walk a bit!)
• Bring a letter or printed vow if you’re nervous about what to say
• Think about a post-proposal celebration – dinner reservations, champagne, or a surprise gathering with family/friends

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Step 5: Capture the “Yes” and the Afterglow

Once you pop the question and they say yes we’ll take a few just-engaged portraits. These can be relaxed, playful, and true to who you are as a couple — no stiff posing necessary.

And yes — I’ll guide you through everything so you don’t have to worry about what to do with your hands.

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Let’s Plan Your Connecticut Proposal Together

If you're looking for a proposal photographer who’s more than just a fly on the wall — someone who helps you plan, gives you the inside scoop on the best spots in CT, and captures the moment with heart — I’m your girl.

Please reach out here and let’s plan the perfect surprise proposal in Connecticut together.

Hammonasset Beach Elopement | Intimate Connecticut Wedding Photography

There’s something truly magical about a quiet, windswept shoreline — and Hammonasset Beach State Park is one of the most breathtaking spots in Connecticut to say “I do.” I recently had the honor of capturing an intimate beach elopement here, and it was the perfect blend of simplicity, beauty, and emotion.

If you're dreaming of a Connecticut beach elopement, keep reading for inspiration, tips, and a peek into one of the most heartfelt ceremonies I've ever photographed.

Why Elope at Hammonasset Beach?

Located in Madison, CT, Hammonasset Beach offers over two miles of sandy shoreline, stunning sunsets, and peaceful spots away from the crowds. Whether you're planning a sunrise ceremony with your toes in the sand or a sunset vow exchange with seagulls flying overhead, it's an ideal backdrop for couples who want a relaxed, nature-filled wedding day.

A Beautifully Simple Elopement

On this particular afternoon, the couple chose a quiet stretch of beach for their Connecticut elopement ceremony. With the sound of waves behind them and nothing but blue sky above, they exchanged heartfelt vows with just a few close loved ones present.

They brought handwritten vows, a small bouquet, and the biggest smiles — proof that you don’t need a big guest list to have a big love story. The natural beauty of the beach did most of the decorating, and the soft light made for some incredibly romantic portraits.

Connecticut Elopement Photography at the Beach

As a Connecticut elopement photographer, I focus on real moments. I love capturing the laughter, the wind in your hair, the sandy feet — the things that make your day feel completely you.

Hammonasset offers a variety of photo spots beyond the shoreline, including grassy dunes, walking paths, and a scenic boardwalk — all of which we took full advantage of to create a relaxed, documentary-style gallery.

Planning Your Beach Elopement in CT

Thinking about your own beach wedding in Connecticut? Here are a few tips to help you plan:

• Choose a weekday or sunrise/sunset time to avoid crowds.

• Keep it simple — a lightweight dress, sandals, and a bouquet that can handle a little breeze are perfect.

• Consider permits — depending on your group size or setup, the park may require a permit for ceremonies or professional photography.

• Work with a photographer who knows the area and can guide you to the best light and least crowded locations.

Ready to Elope at the Beach?

If you’re looking for a laid-back, meaningful way to tie the knot, Hammonasset Beach elopements offer the perfect setting. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous ceremony or a carefully curated beach wedding, I’d love to help you document your story.

Reach out to start planning your Connecticut elopement photography experience today.

Connecticut Engagement Photo Locations | Rebecca Lynne Photography

Top 10 Beautiful Places for Engagement Photos in Connecticut

Connecticut is filled with gorgeous locations that make the perfect backdrop for your engagement photos. Whether you're dreaming of a romantic garden, a breezy beach, or charming downtown streets, there's a spot for every couple's vibe. As a Connecticut engagement and elopement photographer, I love helping my clients find the perfect setting to tell their love story. Here are 10 of my favorite places for an unforgettable engagement session:

1. Elizabeth Park Rose Garden – Hartford

With hundreds of blooming roses and winding pathways, Elizabeth Park feels like stepping into a fairytale. It's especially magical in late spring and early summer when the flowers are at their peak.

2. Wickham Park – Manchester

Wickham Park offers sweeping hilltop views, stunning gardens, and peaceful wooded areas. In the fall, it transforms into a colorful wonderland that’s perfect for cozy, romantic photos.

3. Harkness Memorial State Park – Waterford

Harkness Park brings together everything — a historic mansion, lush gardens, and a dreamy beachfront. It’s one of my top choices for couples who want both elegance and a relaxed ocean vibe.

4. Silver Sands State Park – Milford

For a laid-back, barefoot-in-the-sand engagement session, Silver Sands is perfect. The wide open beaches and the boardwalk offer beautiful, natural light and plenty of space to explore.

5. Yale University Campus – New Haven

If you love classic architecture and a little old-world charm, Yale’s gothic-style buildings and quiet courtyards create a timeless, romantic atmosphere for your photos.

6. Talcott Mountain State Park – Simsbury

Adventurous couples will love the hike to Heublein Tower at Talcott Mountain. The panoramic views of the Connecticut River Valley are breathtaking, especially at golden hour!

7. Topsmead State Forest – Litchfield

Topsmead is peaceful, open, and simply stunning in every season. The historic English cottage, rolling fields, and forest trails offer tons of variety for your session.

8. Roseland Park – Woodstock

This hidden gem in Connecticut’s Quiet Corner has a beautiful lake, charming boathouse, and scenic woodlands, making it ideal for couples who want a more private, nature-filled location.

9. Downtown Mystic

Mystic is picture-perfect with its cobblestone streets, colorful shops, and waterfront views. If you're looking for a classic New England vibe with a touch of coastal romance, you’ll love it here.

10. West Hartford Center

Want a stylish, urban feel? West Hartford Center’s cute cafes, murals, and pretty streets create a fun, lively backdrop for engagement photos with lots of personality.

Ready to Plan Your Dream Session?

Choosing a location that feels right for you two is one of the first (and most exciting!) steps in planning your engagement photos. Whether you’re drawn to the beach, the forest, or the city streets, I’d love to help you find the perfect spot and create images that feel so authentically you.

Why Micro Weddings in Connecticut Are Perfect for Beautiful, Candid Photography

The Beauty of Intimate & Micro Weddings: Why Small Guest Lists Make for the Best Wedding Photography

If you’re planning an intimate or micro wedding in Connecticut, you’re in for something truly special. With a smaller guest list, your wedding day becomes more personal, relaxed, and filled with authentic moments—exactly what I love to capture as a wedding photographer.

This intimate wedding Gouveia Vineyards in Wallingford, Connecticut is a wonderful example of small weddings in CT.

What Is a Micro Wedding?

A micro wedding typically includes fewer than 50 guests, allowing couples to focus on the experience rather than logistics. Unlike an elopement, which is often just the couple and an officiant, a micro wedding still retains the feel of a traditional wedding—just on a smaller, more intentional scale.

Why Choose a Micro Wedding in Connecticut?

Connecticut offers stunning locations for intimate weddings, from charming coastal venues to secluded forest retreats and historic estates. Whether you envision a backyard wedding in Litchfield County, a seaside vow exchange in Mystic, or a cozy barn wedding in the countryside, a micro wedding allows you to fully embrace these beautiful backdrops without the stress of managing a large crowd.

The Benefits of an Intimate Wedding for Photography

As a documentary-style wedding photographer, I specialize in capturing the candid, unfiltered moments that make your wedding day uniquely yours. With a smaller guest list, there’s more space for:

• Genuine Interactions – With fewer guests, you’ll have more meaningful moments with each person, creating heartfelt images that tell your love story.

• Creative and Relaxed Portraits – A micro wedding offers more time and flexibility for couple portraits, allowing us to explore unique locations and capture stunning, stress-free shots.

• A Focus on Emotions – The joy, the laughter, the happy tears—these are the moments that shine in intimate weddings, and I love preserving them through my lens.

My Approach to Photographing Micro Weddings

I believe your wedding day should feel like an adventure, not a photoshoot. My approach is laid-back and fun—most of my couples tell me that working with me feels like hanging out with a friend! My goal is to document your wedding day as it unfolds naturally, capturing genuine smiles, spontaneous laughter, and all the little details that make your celebration one-of-a-kind.

Planning Your Connecticut Micro Wedding?

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who will document your day with authenticity and creativity, I’d love to be part of your celebration. Whether you’re eloping in the woods or hosting a cozy backyard wedding, I’ll be there to capture every beautiful moment.

Let’s connect and chat about your wedding plans—reach out today to book your date!

Planning a Small Wedding in Connecticut: Venues & Tips | Rebecca Lynne Photography

More and more couples are choosing small weddings — and honestly, they’re some of the most meaningful and joyful celebrations I get to photograph. Connecticut offers amazing small wedding venues that let you have a stylish, heartfelt day without the overwhelm.

Why Choose a Small Wedding?

• More time with each guest

• Less stress (and often less expense)

• Freedom to splurge on things you truly love (like amazing photography!)

Best Connecticut Small Wedding Venues

• The Lace Factory (Deep River) — Industrial chic meets riverfront romance

• The Webb Barn (Wethersfield) — Rustic elegance surrounded by gardens

• The Inn at Mystic — Coastal charm with ceremony options indoors and out

• Winvian Farm (Morris) — A luxury countryside retreat for unforgettable intimate weddings

• Saltwater Farm Vineyard (Stonington) — Vineyard views + modern architecture

Tips for Planning Your Small Connecticut Wedding

• Focus on Your Guest List: Invite only the people who light you up.

• Prioritize Experience: Think great food, a relaxed timeline, cozy vibes.

• Choose Vendors Who Specialize in Intimate Weddings: (I’m a big fan of small wedding days that feel intentional and real!)

Closing Invitation

If you're planning a small wedding in Connecticut, I'd love to help capture every beautiful, emotional moment. Reach out here to learn more about my small wedding photography packages!

Why Candid Elopement Photography in Connecticut Tells the Best Love Stories

If you're planning an intimate elopement in Connecticut, you're likely looking for something deeply personal, romantic, and free from the stress of a traditional wedding. But here’s one thing you absolutely don’t want to overlook—your photographer.

As a Connecticut elopement photographer who specializes in candid photography, I believe the best moments aren't posed—they're lived. And when you're eloping, every quiet glance, every spontaneous laugh, and every unscripted moment matters.

Why Elopement Photography Matters

Elopements are all about intention. Whether you're exchanging vows on a cliff overlooking the Long Island Sound or in the woods of Litchfield County, your elopement is a reflection of your unique love story. Documenting that with care and authenticity means capturing real moments as they happen.

Why Connecticut Is Perfect for Elopements

Connecticut is full of hidden gems and scenic backdrops that are perfect for an intimate ceremony. Whether you're drawn to the rustic charm of a vineyard in the Connecticut River Valley, the serene beaches of the coast, or a quiet mountaintop overlook, there's something here for every couple.

Some of my favorite Connecticut elopement locations include:

• Devil’s Hopyard State Park – for adventurous couples looking for waterfalls and forest trails

• Harkness Memorial State Park – a dreamy oceanfront estate with formal gardens

• Topsmead State Forest – for golden-hour photos in open fields and meadows

What Candid Elopement Photography Looks Like

Candid photography isn’t about “taking pictures”—it’s about preserving feelings. From the way your partner looks at you when you read your vows, to the laughter during your first toast, every shot tells a part of your story.

Here’s what you can expect when working with me as your elopement photographer:

• A relaxed, documentary-style approach—no pressure, just presence

• A timeline that fits your day, not the other way around

• A gallery filled with emotional, story-driven images that reflect you

How to Choose the Right Elopement Photographer in Connecticut

When searching for a Connecticut elopement photographer, here are a few things to consider:

• Style: Look for a photographer whose work feels real, raw, and emotional—especially if candid images speak to you.

• Experience: Elopements require flexibility and creativity. Choose someone familiar with different CT locations and comfortable shooting in unpredictable settings.

• Connection: Your photographer will be one of the few people with you on your elopement day. Make sure it’s someone who makes you feel comfortable and supported.

Let’s Create Something Meaningful

Your elopement deserves to be remembered in a way that feels true to you. If you're looking for a candid Connecticut elopement photographer who values real moments, I’d love to chat. Whether you're hiking to your ceremony spot or keeping it simple in your backyard, I’ll be there to capture it all—the big moments, the in-between glances, and everything that makes your love story one-of-a-kind.

Get in touch to start planning your day.

How to Plan a Beautiful Elopement in Connecticut (With a Local Photographer’s Tips)

If you’re dreaming of an intimate, meaningful wedding day focused on just the two of you (or maybe a few loved ones), eloping in Connecticut might be exactly what you’re looking for. As a Connecticut elopement photographer, I’ve had the honor of documenting love stories in cozy forests, waterfront parks, and charming historic towns across the state. Whether you’re planning a simple courthouse ceremony or a nature-filled adventure elopement, Connecticut offers a perfect mix of romance and scenery.

Why Elope in Connecticut?

Connecticut is the hidden gem of New England when it comes to elopements. You get a little bit of everything: ocean views, mountains, gardens, quiet lakes, and quaint towns — all without the overwhelming crowds. Plus, CT is easy to travel around in a single day, so you can hit multiple beautiful spots for your ceremony and portraits.

Best Places to Elope in Connecticut

Here are some of my favorite Connecticut elopement locations:

• Harkness Memorial State Park (Waterford) – Sweeping lawns, ocean views, and a mansion backdrop.

• Talcott Mountain (Simsbury) – For couples who love a short hike and panoramic views.

• Elizabeth Park Rose Garden (West Hartford) – Especially stunning in early summer when the roses are in full bloom.

• Gillette Castle (East Haddam) – A whimsical, fairytale-like location with history and charm.

• Small Towns Like Essex or Mystic – Cobblestone streets, marinas, and cute B&Bs make these towns great for cozy elopements.

What You Need to Know About Eloping in Connecticut

Marriage License:

You can get a marriage license from the town where your ceremony will take place. There’s no waiting period, but it’s only valid for 65 days. You’ll need valid photo ID and both of you must be present to apply.

Officiant:

You can hire a justice of the peace or ordained officiant. Some couples bring a friend or family member who gets ordained online, which adds a personal touch.

Witnesses:

Connecticut doesn’t require witnesses for a legal marriage ceremony — perfect for true elopements!

Tips From a Local Elopement Photographer

• Embrace the season: Fall foliage and spring blooms make stunning backdrops in CT. Winter elopements with snow can also be magical.

• Plan for lighting: Golden hour (the hour before sunset) is the most flattering time for portraits.

• Pack light: If you’re hiking or moving locations, bring only the essentials — your vows, rings, maybe a bouquet, and snacks!

• Make it your own: Whether you want to say your vows barefoot by the water or in a vintage dress under the trees, elopements are all about freedom and authenticity.

Let’s Make Magic Together

Eloping is about celebrating your love in a way that feels right for you — without pressure, stress, or a giant guest list. As a Connecticut elopement photographer, I focus on candid moments, natural emotion, and creating an experience that’s fun and easy. I’ll help you find the perfect spot, recommend vendors, and guide you through every step of the day.

Ready to start planning your Connecticut elopement? Let’s chat and bring your dream elopement to life.

How to Plan the Perfect Micro Wedding in Connecticut

Planning your Connecticut Micro Wedding

Planning a micro wedding in Connecticut? You’re in for a beautifully intimate and meaningful celebration. With a smaller guest list, you can focus on what truly matters—your love story, your closest family and friends, and a wedding experience that feels personal and stress-free. As a wedding photographer specializing in intimate weddings, I’ve seen firsthand how magical micro weddings can be. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect day.

What Is a Micro Wedding?

A micro wedding typically includes 50 or fewer guests. It’s smaller than a traditional wedding but still includes all the essential elements—ceremony, reception, and, of course, stunning photography. The beauty of a micro wedding is that it allows couples to prioritize experience over logistics and create a day that truly reflects their personalities.

Why Choose a Micro Wedding in Connecticut?

Connecticut is filled with picturesque venues that are perfect for small weddings. Whether you dream of a waterfront ceremony in Mystic, a charming inn in Litchfield, or a cozy backyard wedding, there are endless possibilities. A micro wedding lets you embrace these stunning locations without the stress of coordinating a large guest list.

Steps to Planning the Perfect Connecticut Micro Wedding

1. Choose the Right Venue

Micro weddings give you the flexibility to think outside the box when it comes to your venue. Consider:

• Private Estates & Airbnb Rentals – Ideal for an intimate, homey feel.

• Boutique Hotels & Inns – Offers charm and convenience.

• Coastal & Outdoor Locations – Perfect for scenic, romantic backdrops.

• Barns & Historic Venues – Add character and warmth to your wedding.

2. Keep the Guest List Small and Intentional

A micro wedding is about quality over quantity. Focus on inviting your closest family and friends who will make the day even more meaningful.

3. Personalize the Details

With fewer guests, you can allocate your budget toward meaningful details like custom décor, a gourmet dining experience, or unique entertainment options.

4. Create a Relaxed Timeline

One of the biggest benefits of a micro wedding is the flexibility in your schedule. With a smaller guest list, you won’t feel rushed, allowing more time for relaxed, candid moments and beautiful photography.

5. Hire Vendors Who Fit Your Vision

A micro wedding doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means choosing vendors who align with your style. Consider a personal chef, a live musician, or a documentary-style wedding photographer (like me!) to capture every authentic moment.

Why a Micro Wedding Is Perfect for Photography

As a wedding photographer, I love micro weddings because they allow for more intimate, unposed moments. With fewer distractions and a more relaxed atmosphere, I can focus on:

• Capturing genuine emotions and interactions

• Creating artistic, stress-free couple portraits

• Documenting all the little details that make your day unique

Let’s Capture Your Micro Wedding!

If you’re planning a micro wedding in Connecticut, I’d love to help tell your love story through photography. Whether you’re having a cozy backyard celebration or a scenic coastal wedding, I’ll be there to capture every moment in a fun, natural, and heartfelt way.

Let’s connect and make your wedding vision a reality—reach out today to book your date!

Connecticut Proposal Photographer’s Guide to Surprise Engagements

Planning a Surprise Proposal in Connecticut? Here’s Why You Need a Photographer (and How to Make It Perfect)

If you're thinking about popping the question and want to make it unforgettable, a surprise proposal photography session in Connecticut is the way to go. Whether you’re planning a romantic beach moment, a hike to a scenic overlook, or something intimate in your backyard, having a photographer there to capture the look on your partner’s face when they realize what’s happening? Absolutely priceless.

As a Connecticut photographer who specializes in capturing real, unscripted moments, I can tell you: surprise proposals are some of the most emotional and joyful sessions I get to shoot. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your dream proposal (and get beautiful photos to remember it forever).

Why Book a Photographer for Your Connecticut Proposal?

Let’s be real—this is a once-in-a-lifetime moment. You’ve probably been planning it for weeks (maybe even months), and you want to make sure it’s remembered exactly how it felt: full of love, excitement, and happy tears.

Having a proposal photographer means:

• Authentic reactions are captured without interruption

• You’ll have professional-quality images to look back on forever

• You don’t have to rely on a friend with an iPhone or awkwardly staged photos after the fact

• You can relax and enjoy the moment, knowing someone has your back

The Best Places to Propose in Connecticut

Connecticut is full of beautiful proposal spots, whether you want a classic New England vibe or something totally unique. Some of my favorite places for surprise proposal photography include:

• Harkness Memorial State Park (Waterford) – Think sweeping ocean views, gardens, and golden hour glow.

• Wickham Park (Manchester) – A hidden gem with gardens, pavilions, and gorgeous landscaping.

• Heublein Tower (Simsbury) – For the adventurous couple who loves a good hike with a stunning view.

• Downtown Mystic or Essex – Quaint coastal towns with charming backdrops for a more relaxed and romantic proposal.

• Your own backyard or favorite spot – Sometimes the most meaningful place is somewhere that’s already special to you both.

If you’re unsure, I’m always happy to help scout a location and make recommendations based on your story.

How a Surprise Proposal Session Works

Worried about the logistics? Don’t be—I’ve done this before (many times!) and I’ll walk you through every step.

Here’s a quick rundown of how it usually goes:

1. We plan together. We’ll go over the location, time of day, where I’ll be hiding (yes, really), and how you’ll signal me that it’s go-time.

2. You pop the question. I’ll be in position, ready to capture every single second—from the nervous smiles to the big “YES!”

3. Mini session afterward. Once the surprise is out, we’ll take a few relaxed portraits while you're both glowing. No pressure, just authentic joy.

4. You get the gallery. You’ll receive beautifully edited images that you can share with friends, family, and all over Instagram.

Tips for Planning the Perfect Surprise Proposal

• Choose a meaningful spot. Whether it’s your first date location or a favorite trail, personal touches make it extra special.

• Pick the right time of day. Golden hour (about an hour before sunset) gives the dreamiest light for photos.

• Think about attire. You don’t need to dress formal, but if you want nice photos, give your partner a reason to dress up a little without spoiling the surprise.

• Communicate with your photographer. I’m here to help with planning, timing, and even nerves.

Let’s Plan Your Connecticut Surprise Proposal

If you're ready to turn your proposal into a memory you’ll treasure forever, I’d love to help you make it happen. As a local Connecticut photographer, I know the best hidden spots, how to stay stealthy, and most importantly—how to capture genuine, emotional moments without getting in the way.

Ready to chat? [Contact me here] and let’s start planning your unforgettable surprise proposal photography session.

Why Candid Wedding Photography is Perfect for Intimate Weddings

Why Candid Wedding Photography is Perfect for Intimate Weddings

When planning an intimate or micro wedding, every detail is intentional—your guest list, your venue, and the overall experience. But one of the most important aspects of your day is how it’s captured. That’s where candid, documentary-style wedding photography comes in. If you want photos that truly reflect the emotions, laughter, and natural beauty of your wedding day, candid photography is the perfect fit.

What is Candid Wedding Photography?

Candid photography is all about capturing real, unscripted moments. Instead of stiff poses or forced smiles, this approach focuses on genuine emotions and spontaneous interactions. Whether it’s a tearful first look, an inside joke shared between guests, or the way you and your partner glance at each other during the vows, candid photography preserves these moments as they naturally unfold.

Why Candid Photography is Ideal for Micro Weddings

Micro weddings create the perfect setting for documentary-style photography because they emphasize intimacy, authenticity, and connection. Here’s why candid photography works so well:

1. Authentic Storytelling

With a smaller guest list, your wedding is filled with people who truly matter to you. Candid photography captures the love, joy, and connections between you and your guests, telling a story that feels deeply personal and real.

2. Less Pressure, More Natural Moments

Large weddings often come with tight timelines and long lists of formal photos. Micro weddings, on the other hand, allow for a more relaxed experience. This means more space for natural interactions, unplanned laughter, and moments that make your wedding unique.

3. A Focus on Emotion

When you look back at your wedding photos, you want to remember how you felt on your special day. Candid photography captures these emotions—happy tears, belly laughs, heartfelt hugs—without interruption or posing.

4. Unobtrusive & Relaxed Photography Experience

Many couples feel nervous in front of the camera. With candid photography, there’s no need to worry about awkward poses or forced smiles. My approach as a photographer is to blend into the background, allowing moments to unfold naturally so that your photos truly reflect your day.

How I Capture Candid Moments at Your Wedding

As a wedding photographer, I take a documentary approach to capture the essence of your day. Here’s how I ensure your micro wedding photos are full of life and emotion:

• I focus on real interactions, letting you enjoy your wedding without constant interruptions.

• I use natural light and unique angles to create artistic, beautiful images.

• I anticipate emotional moments, like a proud parent wiping away tears or the joy of your first dance as a married couple.

• I encourage movement, laughter, and genuine connection so that your photos feel dynamic and real.

Let’s Capture Your Wedding Story

If you’re planning a micro wedding in Connecticut and want photography that reflects your love in the most natural and authentic way, I’d love to be a part of your day. My goal is to create images that bring back every feeling, every smile, and every unforgettable moment.

Let’s connect and chat about your wedding plans—reach out today to book your date!