Fort Adams Family Portrait Session
Some family sessions feel especially meaningful and this one at Fort Adams in Newport, Rhode Island was definitely one of them.
As a Newport RI family photographer, one of the greatest privileges of this work is getting to watch families grow over the years. I first started photographing this family when the kids were just four years old, and since then I’ve had the honor of capturing so many milestones along the way, including each of their senior portraits. Seeing them again now again always feels like a full-circle moment.
Family Photos at Fort Adams in Newport
This session took place inside Fort Adams, one of Newport’s most unique and historic locations for portraits. The family had arranged a short window of time for us to photograph inside the fort, which made the session feel a little fast-paced but sometimes those quick sessions create the most natural moments.
The textured stone walls, dramatic archways, and historic architecture inside Fort Adams create a completely different backdrop from the typical beach setting that Newport is known for. The mix of light, shadow, and old stone adds depth and character that works beautifully for family portraits, especially with older kids and teens.
Photographing Families Through the Years
One of the most rewarding parts of being a family photographer is building relationships that last for years. I’ve photographed this family through so many different seasons of life — from childhood sessions to senior portraits — and it’s always special when they come back for another round of family photos.
When I first met them, the kids were small and full of playful energy. Now they’re young adults with their own personalities, interests, and plans for the future. Being able to document that growth is something I never take for granted.
A Family I’ve Photographed for Years
Even though we didn’t have a lot of time for this session, it was more than enough to capture what matters most — the connection between them.
Photographing families over many years is one of the things I love most about this job. Watching kids grow from elementary school to high school and college is pretty incredible, and it’s always an honor when families continue to trust me to document those chapters.
Sessions like this are a reminder that family photos aren’t just about one moment in time — they’re about preserving the story as it unfolds.
Melissa LaCouture | Rhode Island Portrait & Family Photographer 