Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, CT is a dream location for couples looking for a stunning mix of elegant architecture, open fields, and oceanside views. Whether you’re planning engagement photos or a wedding shoot, this park delivers a natural charm that’s hard to beat. I recently had the opportunity to photograph Erin and Chevar’s engagement session here, and I walked away not only with some beautiful moments but also with a few practical takeaways for making the most out of this scenic gem. If you’re planning a shoot or wedding here, keep reading—these tips are for you.
1. Time Your Session Around the Light
Golden hour hits differently at Harkness. The park sits right along Long Island Sound, and the sunlight as it moves lower in the sky brings warmth to both the gardens and the ocean backdrop. If you're planning an engagement shoot, I highly recommend starting about two hours before sunset.
That said, our session with Erin and Chevar actually started at 10am—a time many photographers might avoid due to the direct sun. But instead of fighting it, we leaned into it. We embraced the bold shadows, found shade when it mattered, and let the light create a sense of vibrancy and clarity that’s hard to replicate. A standout series was captured in the daffodil field—sunlight pouring in, creating contrast that made Erin's dress pop against the yellow and white blooms. Down by the beach, we highlighted not just the couple but also personal touches—like Chevar’s bright red bag or the golf balls Erin hand-lettered with their wedding date. Those thoughtful details popped under that strong sun and added personality to the shots.
2. Use the Architecture and Landscape Together
One of the things I love most about Harkness is how it allows for so many visual layers. You’ve got the stone mansion with its grand arches, the formal gardens bursting with seasonal color, and then wide open green space rolling into the shore. It gives you a range of moods without ever needing to leave the property.
A favorite moment from Erin and Chevar’s shoot was when we framed them under one of the iron archways near the gardens, then let them walk it out toward the tower. It gave their photos this cinematic progression, while also showcasing the unique structure of the park itself.
3. Keep Things Moving
This location shines when your couple feels free to move. Instead of just having Erin and Chevar pose, we let them stroll, dance, and interact naturally. That energy translated into a gallery full of connection and spontaneity. With so much space and variety at Harkness, you’re never locked into one setting.
We played with the idea of movement in the fields, took a quiet moment on a garden bench, embraced laughter under the shade of towering trees, and explored the symmetry of the mansion. Every shift in setting gave the photos a fresh layer of personality.
Whether you’re planning engagement photos at Harkness Memorial State Park or looking for a wedding photographer familiar with the space, this park offers something for every couple. Check out the official Harkness Memorial State Park website for more info on the venue.
And if you're still looking for a photographer who knows the flow of the space and can guide you through every moment, I'd love to chat. Just fill out the contact form below to get started.
