Lexi and Gianni’s Aldrich Mansion engagement session actually felt like something straight out of a movie. From the vintage car to the classic old-money aesthetic they envisioned, everything about this day came together perfectly! They came in knowing exactly the look they wanted, and the mansion could not have been a better backdrop. This is definitely one of my all-time favorite engagement sessions I’ve had the privilege of capturing.

Why Aldrich Mansion Is Perfect for an Engagement Session

Aldrich Mansion is one of Rhode Island’s most unique (and stunning) locations for engagement photos, especially if you’re drawn to a vintage, old-money aesthetic. The estate sits on a hill overlooking Narragansett Bay, and the combination of stone exteriors, carved wood interiors, and grand staircases gives couples a setting that feels elevated and dramatic.

One of the best parts about the mansion is the variety you get in one place. Inside, the rooms range from bright and airy to moody, depending on the time of day. The wood paneling, antique furniture, long hallways, and tall windows all photograph beautifully and offer plenty of options for both classic portraits and more editorial-style images.

Outside, the property opens up to wide lawns, pathways, and panoramic water views, and the grounds stretch all the way down toward the bay. The front entrance is another favorite spot. Its symmetry and architectural details make it another beautiful spot for photos.

If you’re considering Aldrich Mansion for your engagement session, keep in mind that for photos inside, you’ll need to reach out ahead of time and get permission. Weekdays tend to be the quietest, and the lighting inside the mansion is often best earlier in the day, while the outdoor spaces shine closer to sunset. With a mix of indoor and outdoor locations, the property works well year-round and gives couples more variety than most engagement session spots in Rhode Island.

As a Rhode Island wedding photographer who has worked here multiple times, I’ve learned how to use each part of the property intentionally. Having experience with the space helps me guide couples toward locations and lighting that bring their vision to life, all the way from the planning process through to a stunning final gallery. 

Inside Lexi & Gianni’s Aldrich Mansion Engagement

We began the session inside Aldrich Mansion, taking advantage of the beautiful architecture. The grand staircase is one of my favorite spots because it adds so much depth to portraits. Lexi looked incredible floating down the steps, and Gianni brought such an effortless energy to the session.

Upstairs, the piano room is a must! Adding personal elements to a session always makes engagement photos feel more meaningful, and photographing Gianni at the piano with Lexi beside him told a part of their story that made the session even more special.

From posing to adjusting small details (hand placement, posture, hair), I like to keep the experience relaxed while making sure every frame feels intentional. My background in fashion photography ensures my couples always get the editorial images they’re dreaming of. Beautiful photos come from the little things, and Lexi and Gianni were so easy to collaborate and create timeless images with! 

If you’re planning an Aldrich Mansion engagement or want photos elsewhere in New England, see more of my Rhode Island engagement sessions!

The Library Light at the mansion

There’s this room at Aldrich Mansion with shelves of old books, dark wood walls, and windows that let in the most dramatic light when the sun hits just right. As soon as we walked in, a hard beam of sunlight was streaming across the bookcase. I knew instantly this would be a stunning spot for photos.

I brought them into the light and started creating portraits that leaned into a bold, editorial direction. The shadows, the contrast, the texture of the room. Everything worked together to give us images that feel so timeless. This is the kind of environment where creativity naturally takes over, and it’s part of why I love shooting at Aldrich Mansion.

Vintage Car Portraits by the Bay

After finishing indoors, we headed outside with the vintage car rented from Newport Classic Car Tours. We drove all the way down to the back of the property where the mansion opens up to views of the beautiful Narragansett Bay.

The sun was high and perfect for a high-end, harsh light editorial look. With such a gorgeous setting, I also brought out the drone for some wide shots of Lexi and Giannia on the grounds with their vintage car. Drone images always bring that fresh perspective and help to see the full scale of a location, especially one as grand as Aldrich Mansion.

See more of my work on Instagram!

Portraits at the Front of Aldrich Mansion

We wrapped the session at one of the most iconic spots, the front entrance of Aldrich Mansion. Between the architecture, the stone textures, and the symmetry of the building, it’s one of the best locations for engagement photos. 

Lexi and Gianni wanted imagery that felt luxurious, intentional, and styled, and I truly feel like their vision was brought to life. Their confidence, style, and trust allowed me to focus on creating something meaningful, and I’m so proud of the gallery we made together.

“From the moment we met Nick, his kindness, compassion, and vision were unmatched. He immediately made me feel comfortable and confident. When I opened our gallery, I was speechless. My whole family cried. Every single photo was breathtaking. Nick is a master in every setting – as the sun shifted, he instinctively knew how to capture the most flattering, magical lighting. These were only our engagement photos, and I already can’t wait to see the magic he creates on our wedding day.” 

-Lexi & Gianni

Planning Your Own Aldrich Mansion Engagement?

If you’re drawn to a vintage, editorial, old-money aesthetic, Aldrich Mansion is the perfect setting. I’d love to create something meaningful with you here! Whether you want to bring in a classic car, explore the mansion interiors, or keep things simple and romantic, there are so many ways to make this location feel like your own.

If you’re interested in booking your own Aldrich Mansion engagement session or want to talk through ideas, reach out and let’s chat!