Storytime: Exploring Foster Pond in Southern NH
a young couple kisses while the sun sets behind them at Foster Pond Trail in Windham, NH
Hidden Gem in Southern NH
I made it my life’s mission this season to try shooting at completely new photoshoot locations when I can. Couples love a sense of familiarity, and being able to choose locations based on knowing what the backdrop of their photos will be. And I feel completely the same. When I’m planning a session, I don’t want to have any guesswork on where/how I am going to be shooting a session. But that is maybe the whole point for couples? Going somewhere they haven’t been before, the thrill of exploring and discovering an area for yourselves.
A young couple walking along a ridge on Foster Pond Trail in Windham, NH
Foster Pond Conservation Area
One of the most rewarding sessions I’ve had in a while, I had such a great time exploring this area with the sweetest couple. I was looking for a spot that had a body of water surrounded by trees. This spot features a 2 mile loop of flat trails around a small pond in Windham, New Hampshire. Although the trail is wooded, the trail is surprisingly easy to follow. Some tips for couples:
The path is in the woods, so there will be branches on the trail
there are multiple wooden bridges spanning small creeks around the pond (therefore, not really wheelchair accessible)
many points in the trail are too narrow to walk side-by-side comfortably
literally zero elevation gain or inclines/declines.
perfect for couples that don’t want to “hike” for great pics
Spring in New Hampshire
Because it’s early spring, one of the major concerns (especially around bodies of water) will be how muddy the trails are. The colder the night before, the more likely the ground will remain hard (and stable) for your session. Obviously, making sure to have as much time between your session and the most recent rainfall is also helpful.
Wildlife Encounters
If you know me, you know nature will always be pretty high on the list for priorities. For this area, the major wildlife spotting opportunities will be:
Great Blue Heron
Beavers
people’s dogs (LOL)
Me and this couple were able to spot all 3, but sadly no pics :( (definitely next time). Going at sunrise or sunset means you’re a lot more likely to see these amazing New England natives.
If you are looking for a super easy photoshoot location that will make you feel deep in the woods without an hour-long trek, this is the perfect spot for you. And if you’re looking for a photographer that will turn a simple photoshoot into an adventure with your special someone, then we should probably be friends 😜
