A Whimsical Family Session with Fairy Gardens and Summer Magic

Some locations feel like they were made specifically for family photos, and Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum is absolutely one of them.

Between the gardens, walking paths, waterfront views, and historic mansion, it creates the perfect backdrop for family portraits in Rhode Island. And for families with young kids? It feels almost magical.

This sweet family brought their two daughters for a session at Blithewold, and the girls were especially excited because they knew there would be a mansion and fairy gardens involved.

Honestly, I don’t blame them.

Why Blithewold is One of My Favorite Rhode Island Photo Locations

One of the best parts about photographing sessions at Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum is how much variety it offers in one location.

The gardens are beautiful throughout the season, the grounds feel peaceful and romantic, and the mansion adds such a timeless New England feel to photos.

I also personally have a membership to Blithewold, which means my clients do not have to pay the additional photography fee that is normally required for sessions there. It is one of the perks I love being able to offer families who want this gorgeous location for their portraits.

White Dresses, Fairy Gardens, and Childhood Magic

The girls wore beautiful white dresses for the session, which fit the setting perfectly.

Between exploring the fairy gardens, walking the paths around the property, and seeing the mansion in the background, the entire session had such a whimsical feel to it. It truly felt like stepping into a storybook for the evening.

Some of my favorite family sessions are the ones where kids are genuinely excited to be there, and these girls absolutely were. Their excitement made everything feel playful, natural, and full of personality.

Family Photos That Feel Like an Experience

What I love about sessions at Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum is that they feel like more than just taking photos.

Families get to slow down, explore the gardens, and spend time together while we create images naturally along the way. Those moments always lead to the most meaningful photographs—the real smiles, the curiosity, and the little interactions that parents never want to forget.

Planning Family Photos at Blithewold in Bristol, RI

If you are looking for a beautiful Rhode Island location for family portraits, Blithewold Mansion, Gardens & Arboretum is such an incredible option.

It is especially perfect for families who love:

• Garden settings
• Historic mansions
• Coastal Rhode Island scenery
• Romantic and timeless portraits
• Whimsical locations for children

Sessions here always feel elegant, relaxed, and a little bit magical.