Location—Public or Private?

When we plan our session, one of the first decisions you'll make is choosing the right location. Our beautiful state of Massachusetts offers a mix of historic charm, coastal beauty, and stunning garden landscapes—but should you go for a private venue that requires a permit fee, or opt for a public spot that doesn’t?

Brooksby Farm • Peabody, Massachusetts

Private Locations in Massachusetts: Controlled, Exclusive, and Worth the Fee
Massachusetts is home to some gorgeous private venues that I absolutely love shooting at—think historic estates like Glen Magna in Danvers, Long Hill Estate in Beverly, The Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens in North Andover, or even the Crane Estate in Ipswich. These locations provide beautifully maintained settings, minimal crowds, and an upscale, exclusive atmosphere—making them ideal backdrops for family portraits, maternity sessions, and more. However, most of these locations require a photography permit fee in advance, usually ranging from $50 to $200.

Pro Tip: Weekday permits are often less expensive than weekends.

Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens • North Andover, Massachusetts

Long Hill • Beverly, Massachusetts

Public Spaces: Scenic and Budget-Friendly (But with a Catch!)
Massachusetts is rich with free public spaces perfect for photos—like Boston Public Garden, Lynch Park in Beverly, Wingaersheek Beach (free after 5pm!), or Halibut Point State Park. Quaint town commons and public garden spaces can work well, also. These spots can be just as stunning, but consider the limited privacy, unexpected events, and crowds—especially beaches at sunset. Some locations are public but still require a permit, albeit at a lower cost. For example, Appleton Farms and Endicott Park both require a $25 photography fee, even if it's just a quick portrait session.

Wingaersheek Beach • Gloucester, Massachusetts

Endicott Park • Danvers, Massachusetts

Making the Choice
If you want a relaxed, quiet, and uninterrupted experience with phenomenally beautiful backdrops, a private setting is the best choice. Everyone will feel a bit more relaxed, free to be themselves, and inspired by the magical surroundings. If you don’t mind a little unpredictability—an unexpected wedding booked at the local park, a school field trip at that hidden gem of a garden, orchard closed for pesticide application, Town Recreation Day, etc. (yesss, these all happened!)—a public location can make just as beautiful a backdrop.

Old Garden Beach • Rockport, Massachusetts

North Andover Town Common • North Andover, Massachusetts

Appleton Farms • Ipswich, Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, we’re never short on beautiful backdrops—I adore them all. When you book with me, I will give you a handful of beautiful setting options based on our session date and location and you can decide what is right for you and your family.

Long Hill • Beverly, Massachusetts