Goddard Park |

Golden Hour at Goddard Park | Fall Family Session in East Greenwich, RI

One of the most rewarding parts of being a photographer is watching a couple’s love story grow—and getting to document each new chapter along the way. I first met this sweet couple when we photographed their wedding, and this fall, I had the absolute joy of capturing them again—this time as a family of three—at beautiful Goddard Park in East Greenwich, Rhode Island.

Their little one, around 7 months old, was all smiles (and a few adorable giggles!) as we wandered through the golden foliage. Fall in Rhode Island is truly magical, and Goddard Park delivered with its mix of vibrant leaves, tree-lined paths, water views and soft, glowing light.

We kept things relaxed and candid for this session, focusing on connection and natural moments—snuggles and little laughs. It was such a full-circle moment for me to see them again, now stepping into this new season of parenthood with so much joy and tenderness.

If you’re thinking about booking a fall family session in Rhode Island, Goddard Park is one of my favorite spots for its variety of backdrops and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you’re a returning wedding client or it’s your first session with me, I love creating relaxed, meaningful images that reflect the real heart of your family.

Scroll through to see a few of my favorite moments from this cozy fall session.

Family Portrait in Goddard Park in East Greenwich

Goddard Park Extended Family Portrait Session – RI Family Photographer

Posted on March 2 by Melissa Lacouture

There’s something special about an extended family session—multiple generations, lots of laughter, and the perfect mix of chaos and love. This crew met me at Goddard Park in East Greenwich, RI. The kids ran wild (as they should), grandparents soaked in every second, and we captured all the sweet in-between moments that make family time so special. This session was a reminder that the best photos are the ones where everyone is just being themselves.

The backdrop gave us endless options for both classic portraits and candid fun. Extended family sessions like these aren’t just about the photos—they’re about freezing time, even just for a moment, so years from now, everyone can look back and remember the joy of being together.

Extended family portrait session at with photographer at Goddard Park in East Greenwich, RI

Calvin’s First Birthday Cake Smash Portrait – RI Baby Photography

Posted on October 3, 2013 by Melissa Lacouture

I’m so happy that family saw my photos up at Bellani Maternity because they are really just a pleasure to work with. I’ve had the honor of taking Calvin’s photos since he was… well in Mommy’s belly! The first picture I took of his face was of an ultrasound photo. Now here he is making a mess of his first birthday cake! He is turning out to be quite the handsome devil. Who is lucky enough to blue eyes like that?! Can’t wait for the opportunity to capture the next phase in Calvin’s life and see the family again!

Steve and Leanne’s Maternity Shoot in East Greenwich – RI Maternity Photography

Posted on August 27, 2012 by Melissa Lacouture

Steve and Leanne were shopping for baby items at the fabulous store, Bellani Maternity, when they spotted my photos on the wall. Luckily they contacted me about doing a maternity. I’m lucky because it really was a pleasure to meet this lovely couple and be able to document this exciting time in their lives. Spending time with them I know two things for sure. The first thing is that they love each other, really love each other. The second is that they are SO excited to have this little boy and be parents. Whenever I do a maternity shoot I like to ask some questions to see what’s been going on during the pregnancy. It makes the photos a little more personal. Steve and Leanne have been doing renovations on their house for pretty much the duration of the pregnancy. This is where they are going to one day live with this baby that’s cooking. The baby is almost ready, the house is almost ready. It’s nice to be able to capture this moment when (and where) so many great things are about to happen.

Our second stop was this cool dock close by…

Ending with my favorite!!! Love it!

2011 Rewind :: Preschoolers and Big Kids – RI Portrait Photography

Posted on December 30, 2011 by Melissa Lacouture

My final rewind post and my final post of 2011! What an amazing, amazing year! I can’t wait for 2012 – to meet new familes and to see everyone again. 2012 is going to be a big year for new siblings! Four of my families are expecting a new baby this year!! I can’t wait to meet the little ladies and gents!

This last batch of photos includes some of my favorites kids and photos. Older kids can be a little intimidating because if they don’t like you… well you know it! They have hit a point of self awareness. Now all of a sudden they have opinions on what they want to do for the pictures and how they want to look. I love it when they can have some fun with me – when they say “Take a picture of this!” and do something pretty ridiculous. In this post is a family I’ve done pictures for around 6 times now! They love pictures, my kind of family! I love my sassy rockstar with her tinsel star backdrop. The one’s in her roller skates are awesome! A lot of these kids’ parents were my friends in high school. My daughter also makes an appearance in this one. She is sitting on ledge in front of the roll up grate. Speaking of my little girl this post features her best friend from birth, her best friend from Gymboree and her best friend for school. She is a lucky girl to have so many buddies. Putting these posts together has made me feel lucky as well. Thanks for letting me photograph what you love the most – your families! Happy New Year!