Perhaps the most anticipated season in New Hampshire, depending on how unforgiving the winter was, spring is an energizing time in New England and New Hampshire has no shortage of stunning locations to stage portrait and family photo shoots.
We’re certain you have your favorites and our team certainly has ours. For the sake of keeping our blog posts easily digestible, we’ve restricted this list (which won’t be our last) to areas located throughout southern New Hampshire, specifically.
Rather than attempt to organize this list based on favorites, we’re sticking with old school ABC order. Without further ado, we give you seven of the best photo locations southern New Hampshire has to offer…
Beaver Brook and Maple Hill Gardens, Hollis, NH
Where candid shots are magnified by natural beauty, Beaver Brook, home to Maple Hill Gardens, is the ideal scene for those who appreciate quiet surroundings and the freedom for kids (and adults) to run wild. Featuring more than 2,200 acres of protected land and 35 miles of trails, Beaver Brook also boasts Maple Hill Gardens with its 13 unique themes, including a wildflower trail, pollinator garden, herb oval, rockery, and even a dedicated compost site.
Before we go on, take a look Behind the Lens and Learn What to Expect During Your CYV Photography Session.
Benson Park, Hudson, NH
Here’s where it stays stunning, and also gets a little strange…
The former home of Benson’s Wild Animal Farm, which opened in 1924, (nope, not kidding), the 166-acre Benson Park gives picnic vibes, with plenty of tables and benches around the various ponds and playground. This is potentially the perfect spot for family photos as the kids can play in their natural element — quite literally — and parents can set up snacks at any of the picnic tables. With nine trails to choose from, there’s really no end to the exploring.
Did we mention there is also a preserved Elephant Barn, not to mention the Gorilla House, former 20-year home of “Colossus,” supposedly the largest gorilla ever held in captivity? Just another reason why Benson’s was referred to as “The Strangest Farm on Earth.” Think of the photo ops!
Be sure to check out our 8 Strategies to Prep Your Kids for a Stress-Free Family Photo Shoot.
Bedrock Gardens, Lee, NH
Switching gears entirely, Bedrock Gardens is a blend of both wild and manicured beauty. Think whimsical. So whimsical, in fact, that every year, Bedrock Gardens is home to the incredibly popular Fairy and Hobbit House Festival. It’s not hard for children or adults to imagine that this is where fairies and hobbits really live. Anyone who appreciates unusual sculptures, landscape artistry, and mesmerizing water features will feel right at home here. The Boston Globe calls Bedrock Gardens, “One of the most beautiful and intriguing landscapes in New Hampshire.” And they’re not wrong!
Greeley Park, Nashua, NH
Situated in the north end of Nashua, Greeley Park is a stone’s throw from the vibrant downtown scene, making this another family-friendly photo location. Situated on 125 acres, Greeley Park offers an abundance of wide open spaces and recreational details, including a playground, baseball diamond, tennis court, trails, horse shoes, wading pool, and picnic areas. Definitely a city park, Greeley still offers vast green spaces and is an all-around easily accessible setting.
Lake Massabesic, Manchester, NH
Moving on to the reservoir option on our list, Manchester’s Lake Massabesic is the city’s primary drinking water supply, which makes recreational options limited due to water quality regulations. However, there are 2,560 acres on which to sail, fish, kayak, or canoe. Or just take in the view from Lake Massebesic Trail, which spans 3.7 miles. Not far from Lake Massabesic is the 5,000 square foot Massabesic Center in Auburn, yet another can’t-miss photo op location, rich in trails, pollinator gardens, woodland wetlands, streams, marshes, and a pond. Given their close proximity, we would suggest visiting both spots in a single session.
Wildcat Falls, Merrimack, NH
Definitely a more rugged environment, Merrimack’s Wildcat Conservation Area offers 87 acres of forest to explore along the Souhegan River. Wildcat Falls is a popular destination within this protected land and visitors can choose from several trails of varying elevation, making them ideal for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Woodmont Orchard, Hollis, NH
Dubbed a “birding hotspot,” Woodmont Orchard is home to 183 species of birds on an active certified organic farm. Between the walking paths and pick-your-own opportunities, Woodmont Orchard is an historic gem that represents the agricultural and natural spirit of the Granite State.
We could go on and on, but as we said, we’re trying to keep our reads manageable and fun. Stay tuned for more installments of our favorite photo shoot locations around New Hampshire and elsewhere in New England.
Don’t let the spring season slip by without booking a fresh professional photo session for your family. Contact us today to get on our calendar!
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