After 10 years in the photography business, I can confidently say I’ve scouted my fair share of photoshoot locations. Some were totally mind blowing amazing, and some were a total bust. Here’s my hot take on locations in Michigan that are perfect for photos, and the benefits of each…

MetroParks

Metroparks are usually my first choice for engagement sessions because not only are they beautiful - they are roomy! There’s plenty of space to spread out and have fun taking engagement photos without curious spectators. Most metroparks in MI have a $10 day pass, or annual passes are available for the those who frequent often.

Stony Creek Metropark - For a rustic touch Stony is the place to go. Tons of trees, nature trails, and tall grassy fields for an untouched natural feel.

Kensington Metropark - Kensington is a great choice if you’re looking for a more manicured look. Perfect garden beds, seasonally blooming trees, and did I mention the wildflowers?

Lake St. Clair Metropark - A boater’s delight, this metropark is a great place for a nautical feel. Beautiful lake views with the occasional sailboat on the horizon.

Indian Springs Metropark - Full of nature trails, rustic sheds, and ponds that reflect the most beautiful golden light at sunset. This metropark is great for something a little more remote.

Lake Erie Metropark - This metropark is great if you like to keep things simple. Waterfront views, leafy tree lines, and open air fields all within walking distance.

Wolcott Mill Metropark Historic Center - For an old farmhouse touch with the occasional horse in the distance, this is the park for you!

State Parks

State Parks are another great option if you’d prefer more natural, open space for your photoshoot. Most state parks have a $7-$10 day pass, or you can opt for a state park pass when you renew your car tabs. Then you can skip the ticketing line all together!

Belle Isle State Park - The mecca of Detroit parks. Belle Isle has everything you need and more. It has waterfront, it has willow trees, it has bridges, It has fountains, it has historic buildings, and don’t even get me started on the Belle Isle Conservatory!

Maybury State Park - This place is small, but mighty! A garden lover’s dream, Maybury has a hint of whimsical wildflowers, and a splash of bohemian tall grasses.

Willian C. Sterling State Park - A beautiful option for our folks downriver. This mostly open air park has plenty of grassy areas to have a picnic, and beautiful waterfront views for sunset.

Historic Parks

For something a little more upscale, I recommend one of Michigan’s historic properties. These venues will require a proper photo permit costing roughly $75-$150, but in my opinion it’s 100% worth it!

Edsel & Eleanor Ford House - My personal favorite historic property nestled in Grosse Pointe. The grounds are absolutely breathtaking, the estate is the most regal playscape for photography, and the employees who help with the permitting couldn’t be nicer!

Northville Mill Race Village - This place is a treasure. Be sure to get your permit in advance as time slots are always flying off the shelf. This quaint historic village is the perfect scene for colorful portraits with personality.

Cranbrook House & Gardens - The iconic Cranbrook has recently opened their garden grounds to professional portrait sessions. The fee is a little heftier I will admit, but worth it? Very much so. Think Bridgerton reflection pool meets blossoming Japanese Gardens.

Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farms - For that white farmhouse chic look, this is the park for you. Transport yourself and your loved ones back in time to the 1800’s farm life.

Greenfield Village - Equipped with childhood nostalgia, Greenfield Village is a magical place to visit for your engagement photos. There are breathtaking garden beds, beautifully preserved historic buildings, and the clopping of horse’s hooves on the cobblestone makes for a pretty cool atmosphere.

Detroit Public Library + DIA - This isn’t a park per say, but worth a mention! This Midtown Detroit hotspot is the perfect place for a more formal photoshoot experience. White marble, historic architecture, and well manicured landscaping to pull it all together. It’s a great place to blend romance and class during any season! No fee is required to photograph here. Just polite manners to the library guards!

Public Parks

For a more casual approach, free from the worry of photo permitting and booking time slots, these public parks are a steadfast choice. Of course the catch is they won’t be as private as some of the previous options, but they are gorgeous none the less.

Gallup Park - This easy access park in Ann Arbor is a great option for nature lovers. There’s a river that winds through the park, wooden footbridges leading down walking trails, and this totally cool butterfly garden that makes for a great scene!

Nichols Arboretum & University Of Michigan Law Quad - This is a fierce combo of beautiful scenery and historic architecture. The arboretum is a classic, and never-gets-old kinda place for an elegant, botanical touch. The hydrangeas in this place are unreal! There are blooms during every season, too. Followed by a stop at the Law Quad on UofM’s campus for a step back in time of historic limestone arches and pillars. You really can’t go wrong!

George George Memorial Park - This park is admittedly getting more popular, but for good reason! I’d avoid going there on a Saturday as it’s flooded with prom goers, and wedding parties, but it’s a gorgeous and well kept park perfect for a weeknight photoshoot!