I Fell in Love with Harkness…Here’s Why You Will, Too!
Let me tell you why Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, CT, should be at the top of your list for family photos. After having lived here for 13+ years, this place has a special spot in my heart. My husband and I love it so much that we’ve made it our go-to spot for annual family portraits. Seriously, we’ve been doing this since it was just the two of us—our engagement photos were here back in 2013! Fast forward to 2024, and we’re now a family of four, still snapping away at Harkness, and somehow, it never gets old.
Click here to see our engagement photos at Harkness taken by Toni Spinelli Photography.
Engagement photos taken by Toni Spinelli Photography
So, what makes this park super magical? Picture this: a 42-room mansion (yes, 42 rooms!) known as Eolia, surrounded by the kind of gardens that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale. The lawns are as grand as they come, rolling right down to the Long Island Sound. You’ve got historic architecture, meticulously kept gardens, and views that would make anyone look good in a photo.
And here’s the best part—this park is huge. With over 300 acres & diverse landscapes, you can switch up your backdrops with ease. Playful candids on the sweeping lawns? Check. Colorful, vibrant shots in the flower gardens? You bet. Dreamy, golden hour photos on the beach? Absolutely. Trust me, Harkness has it all.
To make the most of your session at Harkness Memorial State Park, I’ve got a few tips up my sleeve...
Let's start with the Must Haves on your packing list (aside from the diaper bag, that is .. ;) )
Must Haves: A Blanket, Stroller, and Kid-Friendly Toys!
- I highly recommend bringing a neutral colored blanket to your session. Perfect for those cozy, snuggly shots on the grass or at the beach. You could also bring a couple children’s books, some bubbles, a ball, or a kite. Candid moments of you reading or playing together make for the sweetest photos. And it’s a great way to keep the kiddos engaged!
-Don’t Forget the Stroller! - The grounds are massive - we’ll cover more distance if you don’t have to lug your baby in your arms. If you prefer, you could bring a baby carrier and wear him or her as we’re moving around the park
-Cash for Parking: If you’re not rolling with Connecticut plates, don’t forget some cash for the parking fee during the peak season (May through October). Aside from the parking cost, there is no admission fee required to visit Harkness..
My Favorite Spots at Harkness for Photos
- The Gardens: These formal gardens are where the magic happens, especially when everything’s in bloom. It’s like Mother Nature’s version of a color-changing backdrop,,,perfect for giving your photos that unique vibe.
- The Beach: If you’re anything like my toddler, who thinks sand is the coolest thing ever, you’ll love this spot. The shoreline offers stunning views of the Long Island Sound and is perfect for capturing those perfect sunsets. Check out these dreamy beach photos from past sessions I’ve done.
Whether it’s your older kids playing in the sand, the baby dipping his or her feet in the water for the first time, or a quiet family moment, the beach is a must for - you guessed it - awesome candid shots!
- The Lookout/Viewing Area: This little gem is just off the boardwalk and offers a breathtaking view that’s bathed in beautiful light during golden hour. It’s a great spot to stop before hitting the sand and adds some variety to your beach photos.
- The Great Lawn: This is where we let loose! Picture your family running around, playing games, or just lounging on a blanket. It’s all about capturing those natural, candid moments that show the real you.
- The Mansion: Eolia’s architecture is not just unique; it’s downright stunning. It’s a fantastic backdrop for your photos, and I love sneaking in some candids on the grass right in front of it. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different era.
Impressive History
For the history buffs out there, Harkness Memorial State Park has a pretty cool backstory. It was the summer home of Edward and Mary Harkness, who were big on philanthropy and loved nature. The mansion, Eolia, is a beautiful example of Classical Revival architecture, and the gardens were designed by Beatrix Farrand, one of America’s top landscape architects. This isn’t just a pretty place; it’s a slice of history, and it adds a little something extra to your family photos..
So, if you’re looking for a location that offers stunning landscapes, a bit of history, and endless fun, Harkness Memorial State Park is where it’s at. Whether you’re a family of two, four, or more, this place has something for everyone. And who knows, maybe we’ll bump into each other there next time—I’ll be the one chasing my toddler down the beach with a camera in hand!
