A Castle Hill Inn engagement session is the perfect blend of coastal elegance and quiet romance. Located on the edge of Newport, Rhode Island, this venue is one of the most iconic spots on the East Coast for couples looking to capture their love in a timeless, scenic setting. As a Newport RI wedding photographer, I’ve always believed Castle Hill offers something special: light that wraps around you, views that steal your breath, and a sense of calm that lets your story shine through.
This session was the perfect example of all that and more.
There’s something undeniably romantic about Castle Hill. From the winding paths near the lighthouse to the wide, open stretch of beach, it invites you to slow down and soak in the moment. This couple began their session near the Castle Hill Lighthouse — a Newport landmark known for its panoramic views and rocky shoreline. The stone path, the bright sky, and the ocean crashing behind them all came together to create a location that felt cinematic and intimate at the same time.
They held each other close as they walked along the edge of the cliffs, the sea breeze brushing past them. Their chemistry was easy, and their comfort with one another made every frame feel like it belonged in a gallery.
After spending time near the lighthouse, we made our way down to the beach. That’s when the tone of the session shifted — in the best way. There’s a looseness to walking barefoot in the sand that makes people laugh a little easier and lean into each other a little more. And that’s exactly what they did.
They ran through the waves, twirled in the surf, and wrapped each other up in spontaneous hugs and playful lifts. These weren’t planned or posed moments. They were real. And they’re the kind of photos that couples come back to again and again because they capture something honest. It’s that spirit — carefree, joyful, connected — that makes a Castle Hill Inn engagement so powerful.
Photographing at Castle Hill Inn offers a kind of variety most locations can’t. You can start with bold, editorial shots near the rocks and end with soft, golden light on the sand — all within the same session. The shifting scenery makes every moment feel new, and for couples who want their engagement photos to feel effortless but elevated, it’s an unbeatable setting.
Throughout the shoot, the sun moved with us. We leaned into the light, using every chance to wrap the couple in it. When they reached for each other and the light caught her dress just right, it all came together in one of those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments that I was lucky enough to freeze in time. That’s what makes this job such a privilege.
As a Newport RI wedding photographer, I’ve worked in many beautiful locations — but Castle Hill always feels like a homecoming. It has an unspoken energy. It never feels rushed or overly curated. Instead, it invites couples to show up as they are, surrounded by beauty that doesn’t need to be forced.
This engagement session reflected all the things I love most: meaningful connection, natural movement, and light that dances across the frame. Castle Hill provides that again and again. Whether you’re planning an engagement, elopement, or full wedding celebration here, it gives you space to breathe, be present, and create images that are deeply personal.
If you’re dreaming of a Castle Hill Inn engagement in Newport, Rhode Island — I would love to help you create something timeless. Contact me today!
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Deirdre Photography is a fine art wedding photographer based in Connecticut, serving Newport, RI and the surrounding New England coast. As a Newport RI wedding photographer, Deirdre specializes in romantic, editorial-style images captured through a signature blend of film photography and digital imagery. She documents weddings, engagements, proposals, and couple sessions throughout Rhode Island, Providence, Boston, North Kingstown, and beyond — offering a relaxed, connection-driven experience for couples who value timeless imagery and genuine moments.
A lot of moving pieces go into planning a wedding day timeline and i know it's easy to feel like a hot mess! Grab our free guide to plan the perfect timeline for your day.
the list