Engagement Session at the Historical Hammond Castle

When Clair and Andrew shared with me that they wanted an “eclectic and historical vibe” with gorgeous florals and greenery, I knew Hammond Castle photos in the Northshore Mass area would be the perfect location to capture their engagement! 

A Fun Filled Day Exploring Hammond Castle

You can tell it’s going to be a great photoshoot when you click right away with your clients. Clair and Andrew brought so much energy and laughter to the session. We had a blast together! Like lots of couples, they were a tad camera-shy at first, but I had plenty of fun tricks to help them loosen up. Once we got going, they relaxed and really let their love shine through the lens! This comfort allowed us to capture the most genuine, candid moments throughout their historical Hammond Castle photos. 

A Little Bit About Hammond Castle

Hammond Castle, sitting on a cliff in Gloucester, Massachusetts, mixes medieval and Renaissance styles. Built by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr. in the early 1900s, it’s a cool mix of old and new. With its big stone walls, fancy design, and gorgeous views, it feels like stepping back in time. You can check out the historic rooms and walk around the gardens throughout the property! 

Pro Tip: Make the most of the indoor courtyard! It’s a unique feature of the Castle, serving as an indoor garden perfect for capturing shots with greenery, especially during colder months or rainy days. With its glass ceiling, you get the outdoor feel without worrying about the weather! It’s a win-win!

How to Plan an Engagement Session at Hammond Castle

While Hammond Castle is known for hosting weddings, it’s also an ideal spot for any couple to explore for their engagement photos! 

Do I need to make a reservation?

Yes! Before arriving for your engagement shoot, you need to make a reservation with the groundskeeper. Make sure you submit your request 30 days before your planned date! You can submit your request, here! Want me to take this off your hands? I am more than happy to coordinate with the groundskeeper to secure a date and time that works best for you!

Is there a fee to get engagement photos taken? 

Yes! The rental fee is $350 per hour between 4-5pm, $450 per hour between 5-6pm, and $500 per hour between 6-7pm. This fee gives you access to the interior and exterior of Hammond Castle! 

Where can I take photos at Hammond Castle?

Once the reservation fee is paid for the engagement shoot, we will have access to anywhere outside on the property as well as the Great Hall and Courtyard within the Castle. These locations around the property are more than enough to create a dynamic gallery with fun shots!

Clair brought sunflowers to the photoshoot, which could not have been a more perfect prop to include throughout the session. This was a personal prop to their relationship and helped make the photos truly unique to them.

Clair and Andrew’s Kind Words

“My fiancé and I had an engagement photo session with Paula and she was exceptional from start to finish! When the original location we wanted to shoot at wasn’t available, Paula took our vision and offered thoughtful alternatives; when a location was decided, Paula took it upon herself to secure the reservations for us — taking one more thing off my to-do list! 

During the photo session, Paula made both of us (normally camera-adverse people) feel so comfortable. It really felt like we were able to just be authentically us and I think that really shows in the photos she was able to capture of us. I truly cannot say enough wonderful things about Paula. I will be recommending her talents and skills to family, friends, strangers — literally anyone who will listen!”

Overall, documenting Clair and Andrew’s engagement here was a dream! This location is truly magical and perfect for any couple that wants a fairytale-inspired engagement experience! 

New England Engagement Photographer | Paula Milena Photography

For the romantics who cherish genuine, unscripted moments and are deeply in love. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, I’m passionate about capturing your unique story just as you envision it. You deserve a photographer who’s as enthusiastic about your day as you are. Think we’d make a great team? Reach out through my contact form to reserve your date!