An Intimate Lakeside Celebration photographed by a New England Wedding Photographer
There’s something incredibly special about a wedding day that takes place at home, or in this case, at a family home filled with meaning. As a Connecticut wedding photographer who specializes in intimate, heartfelt celebrations across New England, days like Cara and Joe’s are always a favorite to document. Their wedding was the perfect example of how personal, relaxed, and unforgettable an intimate backyard celebration can be. Set at Cara’s uncle’s lakeside home in Farmington, Connecticut, their day was full of emotion, laughter, and a whole lot of dancing under the stars.
Getting ready by the Lake in Farmington, CT
The day began with getting ready moments for both Cara and Joe, each tucked away in separate spaces. There was a quiet nervous energy in the air, the kind that only happens on a wedding morning. Cara wore a stunning strapless gown with a classic, timeless silhouette that felt effortlessly elegant, a bridal look that photographs beautifully in natural light and outdoor New England wedding settings. Joe got ready in a fitted blue suit, equal parts polished and relaxed, perfectly suited for a lakeside summer celebration.
Both were excited, a little nervous, and counting down the moments until they could finally see each other.
A Backyard First Look | Farmington Connecticut Wedding
Cara and Joe chose to share a first look in the backyard, just steps from the lake. With the familiar comfort of family property surrounding them, the moment felt incredibly intimate. The nerves melted away the second they saw each other, replaced with smiles, laughter, and that unmistakable *this-is-it* feeling.
First looks like this are always some of my favorites: unhurried, emotional, and grounding in the best way.
A Lakeside Ceremony Officiated By Friends
As guests arrived, they were greeted by the most beautiful ceremony setup overlooking the lake. Two of Cara and Joe’s close friends officiated, making the ceremony deeply personal and full of warmth. With the water as their backdrop and loved ones gathered close, the ceremony felt meaningful, relaxed, and entirely them.
There’s something about a lakeside ceremony that naturally slows everything down, letting the moment breathe.
Cocktail Hour on the Lawn
Following the ceremony, guests mingled on the lawn for cocktail hour while soaking in the lake views. The mobile cocktail bar, The Crafted Cocktail, served up some seriously good-looking beverages that quickly became a guest favorite.
Laughter, clinking glasses, and easy conversation filled the space, the exact vibe Cara and Joe envisioned for their wedding day.
A Tented Reception & Heartfelt Speeches
The reception took place under a tented setup in the backyard, transforming the familiar space into an elegant yet comfortable celebration. Heartfelt speeches from family and friends had everyone laughing one moment and tearing up the next, the perfect reflection of how deeply loved these two are. As the sun dipped lower, we stepped away for sunset portraits by the lake: soft light, quiet moments, and just-married joy. Once the party officially started, it really started. Cara and Joe’s guests were more than ready to celebrate, and the dance floor stayed packed well into the night. Under the stars, surrounded by friends, family, and the glow of the tent lights, the energy was unmatched.
This was such a fun group, the kind that reminds you why wedding days are so special.
A Joy to Photograph
From start to finish, Cara and Joe were an absolute joy to work with. Throughout the entire process, they were constantly making each other — and me — laugh. Their trust in me meant everything, and getting to watch their vision come to life in such a meaningful setting was truly an honor.
Cara and Joe’s Farmington backyard wedding was a beautiful reminder that the most memorable celebrations are often the most personal ones — filled with intention, connection, and a whole lot of love.
Planning an intimate backyard or lakeside wedding in Connecticut or New England? I’d love to help you tell your story in a way that feels true to you
"Rebecca is indescribable, from how calming she was through a hectic day, producing such stunning photographs that gave a sneak peak in less than 24 hours. She is absolute magic behind the lens (and once you meet her). There is nobody else we would have wanted or trusted for this day”
- Kylie & Mike
Founder and photographer
Behind every photograph is a person who cares deeply about the stories being told. For me, connection has always been at the heart of this work, noticing the laughter, the quiet pauses, and the warmth that makes each moment feel like home. What began as a simple love for capturing beautiful scenes has grown into a calling to preserve the memories that shape your life.
If you’re drawn to a photographer who leads with sincerity, calm, and genuine care, I’d love to share a bit more of my story.
Meet Rebecca Walker
Timeless, Heartfelt Imagery in New England & Beyond
Your wedding day is a blend of quiet moments and sweeping emotion, and my role is to preserve it with a calm, unobtrusive presence. Through a mix of documentary observation and refined portrait guidance, I capture the softness, the joy, and the coastal charm that shape your celebration.
MY Services
Wedding
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Engagement sessions are relaxed and sun-soaked, inspired by the places that feel meaningful to you. With gentle direction and an eye for natural connection, I create imagery that feels effortless, romantic, and true to the rhythm of your relationship.
Engagement
02
Family, maternity, and newborn sessions are designed to feel cozy, calm, and rooted in genuine moments. I focus on the tender details, the in-between expressions, and the nostalgic warmth that makes these seasons worth remembering.
Family
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