Best Engagement Session Locations in West Michigan
Southern Exposure Herb Farm
This place has it all: a barn, gardens, greenhouses, antiques, a vintage car. It’s in Battle Creek and does require a fee, but it’s not nearly as high as the fees around the Detroit area. It’s also quiet and not super crowded. It is privately owned and you do need permission. They also host weddings and other small events! This would be a great location for a summer engagement session.
South Haven
South Haven is my favorite Michigan beach town to photograph in because of the ease and diversity of the area. You can park right in the lot at South Beach (fee required) and walk a few feet and be standing on the beach. If you don’t want to be covered in sweat walking to the top of sand dunes, this is your place. There are small dunes accessible from the South Beach parking lot as well, and the great thing about them is they are small to hike to the top, but give the illusion you are really high up. They have a gorgeous view of the water and lighthouse, and also if you turn away from the water, you can photograph in the paths and with the sea grass. When you’re done shooting at the beach, you can change in the restrooms on site and then walk up the street towards the docks. They are accessible (not private) and photos look really pretty when boats are docked. There are also spots along the channel and on the rocks as you walk down the street to shoot at. So many backgrounds in such a small area make for a great variety of photos. South Haven is great when it’s warm, so late spring, summer and early fall are good times for shoots there. All other times of year can be cold and very windy.
Downtown Grand Rapids
If you’re looking for urban scenery, it’s easy to walk around downtown Grand Rapids and find cool spots. My favorites are by the art museum and the Civic Theater and bridges. However, there are so many alleys and cool off the beaten path spots to explore! Grand Rapids is my favorite in summer so the parks can be utilized, but since this location is urban, the city scapes look nice any time of year.
