Grace Hudson of Captured by Grace Photography is a pro when it comes to capturing couples’ intimate and adventurous moments. Here, she shares six scenic places to take Northern Michigan engagement photos and tips for your photo shoot. From Old Mission Peninsula to Sleeping Bear Dunes, these places provide the perfect natural backdrop.
Pyramid Point // Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Tip: It’s important to schedule your session an hour or two before sunset for that golden glow! Plan and budget for more time if you’re going to hike around the dunes, as many of the great views are an average of a mile hike out.
Robert H. Manning Memorial Lighthouse // Empire
Tip: Unique architecture not only showcases great locations, but it also creates interesting lines to draw your eyes toward the most important subject: You!
Warehouse District // Traverse City
Tip: Don’t let rain stop your adventures! Cloudy days make your skin look great and bright colors pop, plus I always carry a cute umbrella in my car in case of a rainy-day session.
Bonobo Winery // Old Mission Peninsula
Tip: Choose a location you love to visit on date nights or in your free time. You’re already comfortable and happy there, and that shines through in your photos!
Chandler Lake // Traverse City
Tip: The most important thing to remember is to be yourself. Don’t worry about “posing” or what to do with your hands—a great photographer will keep you moving and laughing to capture those sweet in-between moments where you authentically connect with each other.
Sunflower Field // Suttons Bay
Tip: If you want to highlight a seasonal feature like sunflowers, cherry blossoms or fall colors, make sure to communicate often and early with your photographer to plan your session at just the right time.
