Rocky Point State Park senior portraits

Oh my, how I love Rocky Point.

Before Rocky Point became one of my favorite places for senior portraits it was one of my favorite places as a child. I even went on one of my first dates there with my husband.

It brings back so many wonderful memories from my childhood. Every year our whole neighborhood, the “Old Farm Road Gang”, would spend a glorious day at Rocky Point. The kids would go off and ride all the rides while the parents...hmmm…not sure what they were doing. Ultimately we would have the best day and meet up for an amazing dinner at the Shore Dining Hall for their famous clam cakes. It was the unofficial kick off to summer and something I looked forward to every year.

When I was looking for locations for senior portraits one of my friends had mentioned that Rocky Point is a state park. I took a scouting trip to check it out and thought it was perfect for senior portraits.

The walking path and view of Narragansett Bay at Rocky Point State Park in Warwick, RI.

One of the iconic views at Rocky Point. The rocky shoreline and waterfront pier create a beautiful coastal backdrop for senior portrait sessions, especially at sunset.

Rocky Point has some paved walking paths, rock walls, benches, beaches and grassy areas. So many options in a small area, that allows time for outfit changes and the ability to create completely different looks during one session.

The open grassy fields create a completely different look from the rocky shoreline and sandy beaches giving seniors multiple backdrops without having to leave the park.

One of the things I love most about Rocky Point is the variety. Within a short walk, we can photograph on the rocks, at the pier, along paved paths and on this beautiful sandy beach.

jordi’s senior session

Last summer I had shared my scouting pictures of Rocky Point on Facebook as I was so excited about this location. Jordi’s mom reached out saying that looked like a great location for Jordi’s senior session.

Jordi had one of the windiest sessions of the summer, but she was amazing. She would smooth her hair and give me her stunning smile as we moved around the different locations at the park.

Jordi’s session highlighted how versatile Rocky Point is. The park has beautiful pockets of greenery that create a completely different look from location to location.

Jordi wanted to highlight her college decision by wearing her Bryant University sweatshirt for a few portraits. I always encourage seniors to include something that is meaningful to them.

This is one of my favorites from Jordi’s session. I still can’t believe how windy it was that night!

Our patience with the wind was rewarded with the stunning sunset. A beautiful way to end Jordi’s session.

Caroline’s cotton candy sky session

Caroline’s mom reached out and said she would be up for any location. She did ask for some flowers and we found some beach roses that were perfect. The park is not too busy but a little girl did ask Caroline what she was modeling for. I love the sweet interactions that make everyone smile.

I love how Rocky Point can feel different for each senior. I wanted to be sure we captured the stunning pier before the sun went down. Caroline’s dress was a perfect contrast to the natural blues and greens of the landscape.

While I was taking these photos is when Caroline got asked what she was modeling for. I can see it, she is so lovely.

I love when seniors bring different outfits to highlight their personality. I always want you to feel like YOU!

Mother Nature rewarded us with this stunning cotton candy sunset.

Caysen’s senior session

Caysen’s mom reached out to get some photos taken for Caysen’s senior portraits. Caysen had no preference for location and his parents were up for Rocky Point State Park. They had remembered visiting when they were younger too. Caysen and his dad had some fun exploring some of the old trails after we were done taking photos while his mom and I chatted.

Caysen came with just one look but his parents wanted to include some of his hockey gear. The seniors don’t always know what they want but are usually open to suggestions. It is fun to capture what is so important to them at this stage of their life. Sometimes, we parents have to say, “Humor me and bring the hockey jersey.” Very often they are everyone’s favorite images.

Our day was a little overcast but luckily the rain held out. I think the sky helped with some moody lighting for Caysen’s senior session.

Glasses or no glasses, it is a question I ask myself regularly. It is always up to the senior. Caysen did a little of both and I think he looked great either way.

Caysen has played hockey since he was little, he wasn’t sure if he wanted to include the hockey gear. I am glad his parents thought to bring it and we captured another little piece of his story.

Rocky Point provides so many looks and I love this one with the edges of the iconic arch in the background.

Who would have thought that I would be making new memories at Rocky Point all these years later. Taking senior photos is just as thrilling for me as riding the Scrambler back in the day. It is such a versatile location for seniors and I always look forward to my sessions here.

If you are thinking about senior photos and are not sure where to go, I’d love to help you choose a location that is right for you.

Planning tips for Rocky point

There is plenty of free parking. The walkways down to the shoreline are paved and fairly easy to navigate. There is a slight incline, most families (and myself with my gear) have no trouble navigating the park.

Portable toilets are available near the parking area. Since we are usually there at the end of a busy summer day…well…I’d recommend using the restroom before you arrive.

I typically bring a pop up changing tent if you have outfits that are tricky to change in and out of, so there is no need to change in your car.

Although I’m based in North Attleboro, Massachusetts, I frequently photography senior sessions at Rocky Point for families throughout Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts.