my blog

The number one request I get for family photos is help with deciding which outdoor location in West Michigan would be best. Finding a great spot for family photos shouldn’t feel like a scavenger hunt or require a permission slip. I’ve rounded up my favorite places across the region where families can show up, explore […]

Jan 11, 2026

You wrangled the kids, picked outfits, packed snacks, and made it through your family photos (which, let’s be honest, is a monumental achievement on its own). Now comes the question every parent asks the second we wrap: what’s next after your family photoshoot? Let’s walk through what happens on my side of the camera once […]

Jan 11, 2026

A Mom-to-Mom Guide That Keeps It Simple – One of the biggest questions I get before every session is what to wear for your family photos. Picking outfits feels like a tiny project wrapped in stress, especially when you’re juggling snacks, nap windows, and trying to convince someone under age five that shoes are, in […]

Jan 10, 2026

golden retriever sitting with newborn brother wearing a "big bro" bandana, not looking pleased, funny image

When it comes to your Saint John’s Resort wedding, every detail, candid moment, and joyful smile matters. That’s why more couples are choosing to add a second photographer to their day. As a Michigan wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how dual coverage not only ensures nothing is missed but also adds depth, perspective, and storytelling […]

Dec 15, 2025

Sunset couple portrait outdoors at Saint John’s Resort wedding by a michigan and chicago based wedding photographer

By a Michigan Wedding Photographer Based in Grand Rapids – The Wild Phern When Kristen and Kelley reached out about having me document their small elopement in the woods of Northern Michigan, I knew it was going to be special. As a Michigan wedding photographer, I’ve seen celebrations of every size, but there’s something about […]

Nov 22, 2025

Overcast beach photo of the couple wrapped in each other’s arms.

Why Documenting Milestones Matters: Life doesn’t always follow the timeline you expect, but love is worth celebrating in every season. Shelby and Robert originally booked me for an engagement session while planning their intimate wedding. When life shifted their plans, they decided to exchange vows in a simple courthouse elopement in Michigan instead. What I […]

Oct 6, 2025

Robert dips Shelby in a joyful, movement-filled pose during their elopement in Michigan, capturing laughter and golden hour romance

I’ve done many sessions on Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Michigan, but this proposal is my favorite! When Austin reached out to me about planning a proposal for his girlfriend Hailie, (and now fiancée!), I couldn’t say yes fast enough. Hailie isn’t just any bride-to-be. She’s also a local photographer and a colleague of mine, which […]

Sep 9, 2025

Proposal photographer capturing the moment of the couple embracing

Some engagement photos just hit differently, and this super fun one absolutely did! Jessica and Cisco aren’t just any couple. They’re longtime friends of my husband, which made being their photographer for this milestone even more special. Getting to document a love story that’s been years in the making? That’s the good stuff. Jess came […]

Sep 5, 2025

Jessica and Cisco posing in elegant indoor space with vibrant natural tones.

As a Detroit wedding photographer, I’ve seen a lot of creative wedding themes, but Haley and Eric’s Star Wars wedding is one I’ll never forget. Planned perfectly for May the 4th (because, of course), their day was full of personality, laughter, and a little bit of galactic flair. Eric planned the entire thing — can you believe […]

Sep 2, 2025

Bride and groom posing with glowing Star Wars lightsabers, playful and cinematic wedding portrait.

Hannah and Andrew’s engagement session was the perfect mix of romance, personality, and city magic. As a Chicago wedding photographer, I always love when couples bring me into spaces that feel true to who they are, and these two nailed it. We created a little tour of their favorite spots in the city, blending iconic landmarks […]

Aug 29, 2025

Engagement photo of Hannah and Andrew under the L train tracks using long exposure to capture city movement.

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