Westerly RI Family Photographer | Extended Family Beach Portraits for a 90th Birthday

Posted on 11 Days Ago by Melissa Lacouture

Extended Family Beach Portraits for a 90th Birthday

Celebrating a milestone birthday with the entire family gathered together is something truly special — and this extended family portrait session in Westerly, RI was the perfect way to honor Bob’s 90th birthday.

As a RI family photographer, I love when families choose the beach as the backdrop for meaningful moments like this. The ocean, soft sand, and relaxed coastal setting create timeless portraits that feel both natural and heartfelt.

Extended Family Beach Portraits in Westerly, Rhode Island

This session brought together three generations to celebrate Bob turning 90. His two daughters were there with their families, along with his wife and her daughter and grandson. Altogether, eight grandchildren filled the beach with energy, laughter, and just the right amount of joyful chaos.

Extended family portrait sessions are about more than just getting everyone in one frame. They’re about documenting connection — grandparents with grandkids, siblings together again, cousins laughing in the sand. I always make time for large group portraits, smaller family groupings, and individual grandparent photos so every relationship is captured.

Why Choose a Westerly RI Beach for Family Photos?

Westerly’s coastline is one of our favorite locations for Rhode Island family photography. The soft evening light, open space for large groups, and calming ocean backdrop make it ideal for extended family sessions.

Beach sessions also naturally encourage interaction. Kids can move, cousins can play, and grandparents can relax — which results in portraits that feel genuine and full of life.

Planning an Extended Family Session in Rhode Island

If you’re gathering multiple generations together — whether for a milestone birthday, anniversary, or summer vacation — an extended family portrait session is the perfect way to document it.

As a Westerly RI family photographer, we help guide large groups with ease so the session feels organized but never stressful. From outfit guidance to grouping combinations, we make sure everyone feels comfortable and cared for.

Because moments like a 90th birthday don’t come around twice.

Extended family session on the beach in Westerly, RI

Grandparents and grandkids at extended family session on the beach in Westerly, RI

Fall Mini Sessions in Roger Williams Park – RI Outdoor Mini Sessions

Posted on September 29, 2024 by Melissa Lacouture

One of my favorite times of the year is here – Mini session season! If you’ve been following me you’ve probably heard me say it a million times but I truly love these sessions. It’s such fun to reconnect with so many familiar faces each year. Some families have been with me since I started 14 years ago! Watching these kids grow up, capturing new milestones, and freezing these moments in time makes my job that much more rewarding.

For those who haven’t done a mini session before they’re essentially a full portrait session but with a time limit. Every time I sit down to edit these photos I think how much of a deal these sessions really are. If you don’t believe me just take a look at this session from last year!

This year I’m offering mini sessions at Roger Williams Park. The park is massive with so many options for gorgeous backdrops. I can’t wait to see my returning families and meet new ones too!

If you’re thinking about booking, don’t wait too long! These mini sessions fill up fast, and I don’t want you to miss out on what could be your new favorite family tradition.

Kids at their mini session in Roger Williams Park in Providence, RI

Family at their mini session in Roger Williams Park in Providence, RI

Family walking at their mini session in Roger Williams Park in Providence, RI

Kids in the park at their mini session in Roger Williams Park in Providence, RI

Family Portrait at Harkness State Park in CT

Posted on February 13, 2024 by Melissa Lacouture

This is not just another family portrait session in the beautiful Harkness State Park; for me it is a throwback with a family adore. I first met Stella and Shane years ago when I photographed their engagement session! Since then, we’ve revisited this picturesque place for so many milestones, from their wedding day to a maternity session as they awaited the arrival of baby number 2 to family sessions. And it hasn’t been just pictures! Stella and I have supported each other along the way with tips on Disney vacations, online classes for our kids during lockdown, being cat moms and more. So much has changed yet remained the same. Mom and dad stand side by side surrounded by their growing children with the oldest (oh my god!!!) almost in high school! Each session at Harkness State Park is cherished tradition for me. Dare I say the next time I am here might be Madi’s senior portrait?!?

Family portrait at Harkness State Park in CT

Driftway Park Family Portrait in Scituate, MA

Posted on February 7, 2024 by Melissa Lacouture

Another photo session with a family that has become dear to my heart. From first birthday pictures for the oldest to this latest family portrait, I’ve had the privilege of documenting them through the years. What began as a professional relationship has blossomed into a friendship, especially with mom, who I so happy to call a friend.

To my wonderful clients turned friends, thank you for allowing me to be a part of your lives! Your trust and loyalty mean the world to me. Here’s to many more years of snapping photos together!

Brothers Portrait at the Studio – RI Family Photographer

Posted on February 2, 2024 by Melissa Lacouture

I had the pleasure of photographing three adorable brothers. I first met this family when there was only one baby! The youngest of the trio just celebrated his first birthday. This portrait session was filled with laughter and playful antics as you can see in the pictures! It’s these kinds of moments captured that make my job as a photographer so rewarding. Seeing families evolve and capturing their bonds is a privilege that goes beyond just taking pictures. As always thanks for letting me be a part of the journey!