Why Choose the MSU Gardens for Your Michigan Engagement Session

by Caitlin Maloney Photography

If you’re dreaming of an engagement session that feels romantic, elevated, and effortlessly timeless, the Michigan State University Gardens in East Lansing might be the perfect setting for you. As a Michigan wedding and engagement photographer specializing in classic, sophisticated, and artistic imagery, I’m always drawn to locations that combine natural beauty with refined design—and the MSU Gardens deliver exactly that.

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Michigan

Tucked away in East Lansing, the MSU Gardens are one of Michigan’s most stunning outdoor spaces. Every corner of the gardens feels intentional—lush blooms, sculpted hedges, ivy-covered walls, and romantic archways that transport you far beyond the Midwest.

It’s the kind of location that feels European in spirit yet effortlessly Michigan at heart. Whether you’re envisioning a golden-hour session surrounded by flowers, a summer evening stroll through manicured paths, or rich fall tones against the gardens’ architecture, the MSU Gardens are endlessly photogenic.

Why I Love Photographing at the MSU Gardens

I’ve photographed engagement sessions across Michigan, but the MSU Gardens remain a favorite for couples who want their photos to feel both natural and refined. The variety of textures and backdrops—cobblestone paths, vibrant florals, reflective ponds—make it ideal for creating classic yet elevated photos without needing to travel far.

For my couples, I aim to create imagery that feels effortless and emotional, blending fine art composition with candid moments. The gardens provide a cinematic setting for that balance—soft light filtering through the trees, a gentle breeze through the flowers, and space for you to truly connect and be yourselves.

My Tips for a Flawless Engagement Session

1. Dress intentionally. Choose outfits that reflect your personal style while complementing the natural tones of the gardens—think neutrals, soft pastels, or elevated fabrics like linen or silk.

2. Plan around the light. The gardens truly shine at sunset, and that warm glow gives your images a fine art, editorial look. I recommend shooting in the late afternoon and evening.

3. Add variety. Bring a second outfit to change into for both a casual and more formal style.

4. Relax and enjoy it. I’ll guide you through natural, effortless posing so you can simply be in the moment together.

Ready to Begin?

If you’re planning your Michigan engagement session and love the idea of a setting that’s lush, romantic, and classically beautiful, I’d love to help you bring your vision to life. Get in touch via the Contact link.

How to Make the Most of a Rainy Summer Engagement Session in Ann Arbor

You’ve spent weeks planning your summer engagement photos — the outfits, the locations, the vision. And then the forecast calls for rain. Don’t stress — a little summer rain can actually transform your session into something romantic and cinematic. A rainy day in Ann Arbor can actually make for some incredible engagement photos with the moody light and intimate vibes. Here are some photographer-tested tips (and a few Ann Arbor–specific ideas) to make the most of it:

Here’s how to make it work beautifully.

🌧 1. Lean Into the Mood

Rain doesn’t have to mean compromise. Overcast light is flattering, the colors of Ann Arbor become richer, and the atmosphere feels instantly more romantic. Imagine strolling through downtown or the U-M Law Quad with soft raindrops falling — it’s timeless, elegant, and real.

☂️ 2. Bring Elevated Rain Essentials

A few thoughtful details keep you comfortable and your look intact:

• Clear or neutral-toned umbrellas — they photograph cleanly and keep your skin tones natural.

• Waterproof makeup — you definitely don’t want your makeup running.

• Towels + hair touch-up essentials — a simple way to stay photo-ready between spots.

🏛 3. Choose Locations with Built-In Cover

Ann Arbor has no shortage of elegant spots that offer shelter and character:

• Nickels Arcade — airy light and vintage architecture.

• The Law Quad cloisters — those stone archways feel straight out of Europe.

• The Clements Library - the architecture is stunning and the arches provide cover from the rain.

• Downtown Ann Arbor streets — especially in the evening, the street lights provide a completely different vibe.

💕 4. Keep It Effortless and Intimate

Rain has a way of slowing everything down. Take your time. Hold hands, walk close, laugh when the wind catches your umbrella — those unplanned, genuine moments always photograph best. The rain gives permission to be natural, connected, and present.

🌦 5. Have a Flexible Plan

If it’s a passing summer storm (which it often is), we can easily wait it out or shift the start time. Michigan skies change by the hour, and post-rain light is often the most beautiful of the day.

✨ Final Thoughts

A rainy summer engagement session isn’t about adjusting expectations — it’s about creating a different kind of beauty. The atmosphere becomes cinematic, the light softens, and the connection between you becomes the focus.

So if the skies turn gray, embrace it. Ann Arbor in the rain is romantic, refined, and unforgettable — the perfect setting for a love story that feels timeless.

Why the Ford House in Grosse Pointe Is One of Michigan’s Top Engagement Session Locations

If you’re dreaming of a timeless, classic, and artfully elevated setting for your engagement session, the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe is truly one of Michigan’s most breathtaking locations. As a Michigan wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of photographing many couples here — and every time, I’m reminded why this estate remains one of my favorite backdrops for beautiful portraits.

1. Historic Architecture & Elegant Design

Designed by the famed architect Albert Kahn and completed in 1928, the Ford House is modeled after the Cotswold-style manors of England. From stone roofs and vine-covered walls to arched windows and ornate doorways, every corner of the property offers texture and timeless beauty — the kind that never feels dated or overly posed. It’s an aesthetic that resonates perfectly with couples who love artful, intentional photography.

2. A Variety of Stunning Backdrops

What makes this location exceptional is its range of scenery, all within one property. You can stroll through the rose garden, wander shaded stone paths, pause at the lakeside, or explore the grand lawns overlooking Lake St. Clair. Each spot tells its own story — whether you’re going for soft romance, modern editorial, or something classic and refined.

3. Lakefront Light & Natural Beauty

Because the estate sits right on the water, the light here is absolutely magical. During golden hour, the sky glows softly over Lake St. Clair, creating luminous tones that photograph beautifully. Whether we’re capturing gentle movement or still, quiet moments, the natural light helps create those timeless, editorial-style images you’ll treasure for years.

Ford House Photography Session Details

The Ford House requires a photography permit for all professional sessions. You can reserve your time directly through their Photography Booking Page. As of 2025, session rates are:

1-hour session $90

2-hour session $170

📸 Wedding or extended sessions (such as bridal portraits or wedding party sessions) start around $400–$500 for 2–3 hours.

Booking Tips:

• Reservations should be made at least 3 weeks in advance.

• The interior of the house is not available for photography — all sessions take place on the grounds.

• You’ll need to complete a short Photography Request Form

My Approach to Ford House Engagement Sessions

When photographing at the Ford House, I love to take full advantage of the variety and light the property offers. My engagement sessions here typically last about 1–2 hours and include:

• Multiple looks (often one formal and one relaxed)

• A mix of editorial, artistic and natural poses

• Timing around golden hour for the most flattering light

• Gentle direction to help you feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera

Ready to Plan Your Ford House Engagement Session?

You can learn more about the location and reserve your photography permit directly through the Ford House website. If you’d like to work together to create your engagement session there, I’d love to help. You can book your session directly via my online booking calendar.

Timeless Engagement Sessions at Cranbrook House & Gardens

by Caitlin Maloney | Detroit Wedding & Engagement Photographer

There’s something undeniably romantic about Cranbrook House & Gardens in Bloomfield Hills. The historic stone architecture, sculpted hedges, and sunlit reflecting pools feel like a scene from Europe — right here in Michigan.

If you’re dreaming of a refined, nature-filled setting for your engagement session, Cranbrook offers the perfect blend of elegance and serenity. Here’s everything you need to know before booking your session — along with my personal tips as a Detroit engagement photographer who’s captured countless love stories here.

🕊️ Booking Your Cranbrook Gardens Engagement Session

Professional photography sessions at Cranbrook must be booked in advance through the official Cranbrook House & Gardens website.

👉 Reserve your Cranbrook Gardens Portrait Session

Each session includes:

• Two hours of photography access to the gardens

• A reservation for your chosen time slot (set by Cranbrook)

• Access to a variety of exquisite outdoor spaces

💰 Session fees paid directly to Cranbrook:

• 1–4 people: $300

• 5–10 people: $500

• 11–16 people: $700

(This fee covers use of the property — my photography services are separate.)

Reservations typically open in spring and close each year in early fall. Because the gardens are winterized in October, plan ahead for a session between May and September for peak color and beauty.

🌿 My Professional Tips for a Flawless Engagement Experience

1. Book Early for the Best Light & Bloom

Cranbrook is one of Michigan’s most sought-after engagement locations — especially during late spring and early fall. I always recommend reserving your session as soon as the booking calendar opens.

2. Schedule Around Golden Hour

The soft, golden light just before sunset enhances every texture and tone — from the limestone terraces to the lush greenery. It’s the secret behind that effortlessly romantic, glowy look you see in editorial engagement photos.

3. Select Spaces That Reflect Your Aesthetic

The gardens offer endless possibilities, each with its own energy and texture:

• 🌿 The Sunken Garden — intimate and secluded

• 🪞 The Reflecting Pool lawns — architectural and classic

• 🏛️ The Courtyard — perfect for timeless, formal portraits

4. Elevated Outfit Planning

There are no indoor changing areas at Cranbrook, so thoughtful styling is key. I suggest:

• One statement look — elegant and editorial (think soft neutrals, tailored silhouettes, or flowing fabrics)

• One refined casual look for movement and comfort

• Minimal accessories or layers to shift the tone between setups

Your palette should compliment the garden’s textures — greens, stone, and water photograph beautifully against muted or neutral tones.

5. Relax & Be Present

Your engagement session isn’t about posing perfectly — it’s about feeling connected. I’ll guide you through movement and emotion so your images reflect the two of you looking and feeling natural, while utilizing the beautiful light and surroundings of the gardens to culminate in artistic, timeless images.

6. Weather & Rescheduling

Michigan weather can be unpredictable, but Cranbrook allows one complimentary reschedule in the same season due to severe weather. I can always bring clear umbrellas if there is only light rain in the forecast, too. Rainy day images are always some of my favorites.

✨ Etiquette & Expectations

Cranbrook is a historic landmark and active public space, so sessions must respect its preservation rules:

• No pets (except service animals)

• No climbing, touching, or entering fountains or sculptures

• No food, alcohol, or amplified music

• Exterior locations only — interiors are not available for portrait sessions

• No confetti, streamers or glitter

💫 Why I Love Photographing at Cranbrook

Every time I photograph a couple here, I’m reminded why it’s one of Michigan’s most iconic engagement locations. The light in the gardens during golden hour is stunning, and there are so many different backgrounds that your photos will have a vast variety of options to choose from for your save the dates or to display in your home or at your wedding.

It’s a place that feels grand, yet intimate — perfect for couples who want their engagement photos to feel sophisticated, timeless, and effortlessly romantic.

If you’re drawn to refined architecture, soft natural light, and meaningful storytelling through imagery, a Cranbrook Gardens engagement session might be the perfect fit.

💌 Ready to Begin?

You can book your garden permit directly here and coordinate Cranbrook’s availability with my own:
👉 Cranbrook House & Gardens Portrait Sessions

You can see my availability and book your engagement session online here:  https://caitlin maloney photography.as.me/

Taylor and Bogdan mixed classic and timeless with some University of Michigan love for their engagement photos. We started their engagement session at the stunning law quad for some elegant engagement photos. Taylor had the prettiest dress! Then we headed over to the Block M for some U of M pics. Bogdan was so excited about these…you could see it in his face. He immediately started grinning once we got to the Big House! Here are some of my favorites from their spring session!

If you asked me what my favorite season was to photograph in, it would be hard for me to answer! They are all wonderful for different reasons. However, there is something special about spring…the excitement and energy of everyone emerging from the winter slumber…the excitement for the green, the warmth and of course, the flowers! Spring flowers seem to only be in bloom for 1-2 weeks for each kind…tulips and magnolia trees in April for a week or two…lilacs in May…peonies end of May and early June. Capturing photos with these fleeting blooms is so special for that reason! For Zoe and Jeff’s session, we were lucky enough to capture some of these spring blooms in all their glory on the stunning MSU campus. Here are some of my favorites from their East Lansing engagement session!

When Jadyn and Marc booked me for their wedding, they had already had an engagement session…in Italy! However, it was a year earlier and they confessed, all of their things had been stolen during the session when they set them down on the ground to take photos, so a second round of engagement photos sounded good to them! They thought they could use the practice…and maybe a stress free session too!

We met up in Detroit in January, which is not a popular time for engagement photos. It may have been cold enough to turn our skin pink and purple, but we prevailed, dipped into a few places to warm up, and got some gorgeous photos. These two were in from out of town, so rescheduling wasn’t an option when zero degree temps hit the forecast. They wore long coats, we secretly had hand warmers in our pockets, and the Siren Hotel lobby helped warm us back up to normal skin tones. It was all worth it for these photos; my favorites are below! Can’t wait for their War Memorial wedding in Grosse Pointe later this fall!

When preparing for what to wear to an engagement session, many brides choose to wear white. However, I love it when brides choose to to wear something that really pops against the background of the location they chose. That is exactly what what Sydney did. She chose to wear a wine colored dress, which really popped against the architecture of the Law Quad in Ann Arbor. It also perfectly matched the color of the hydrangeas all around the building! Here are some of my favorite photos from Justin and Sydney’s engagement session in Ann Arbor, and take note of Sydney’s dress when planning your own outfits!

Let’s face it- engagement photos feel awkward! That’s one of the benefits to doing them- you won’t feel as awkward on your wedding day, right? To combat some of that awkwardness and to make things feel as comfortable as possible, these two chose to have their engagement session at their beautiful home in Grosse Pointe. We took photos inside and out, and I love how they came out. Bonus to doing them at your home- you don't have to worry about permits, fees, venue hours, bathrooms to change in, etc...because it's at your own home. Here are some of my favorites!

One of the cutest accessories a couple can bring to their engagement session is their puppy! Last summer, I spent an evening on beautiful Belle Isle in Detroit with these two and their corgi! They hugged him, cuddled him, kissed him, and those big corgi eyes gave me some of my favorite photos ever! I’m super excited to photograph S + N’s wedding at the Book Tower in Detroit next month! Come back to check out some of those favorites soon, but for now, here are my favorites from their engagement session!

S + J wanted to have their engagement photos taken at a location that was meaningful to them: the place they met, their home! Not too many couples can say they met at the home they live in, but that’s exactly what happened with these two. J had a Fourth of July party at the house, S came with a friend, they met, and the rest is history! I love the photos we captured; they were laid back, relaxed, and just comfortable- exactly what a home lifestyle should be. Here are some of my favorites from their session!

I’m not sure if there is anything prettier in Ann Arbor than the peony gardens at the Arb when they are in full bloom. They only bloom for two weeks of the year, the last week of May into the first week of June. Whenever a couple inquiries with me for an engagement session in Ann Arbor, I always say, if you can do one of these two weeks, choose the peony gardens for your engagement photos! It’s a unique setting that very few couples are able to have, and the results are so so stunning. Here are some of my favorites from a session there last year!

The Law Quad on the campus of U of M is one of the few locations that looks amazing in photos in any season and any form of weather. It can be used in rain, in spring, in summer, and in fall. It’s a classic and elegant background, so photos taken here look even better when engaged couples dress up! For guys, that might mean sport jackets or cardigans, for women, that might mean a dress and heels. I loved the outfits B+A chose; not super formal but not completely casual either. Here are a few of my favorites from their engagement session!

This season was filled with so many amazing shoots in so many amazing places. Boston Common and the surrounding areas are so pretty, and even in the height of a weekend afternoon, you can still find little nooks to capture beautiful photos without swarms of people. I loved how Meghan and Bailey stayed true to their style in this session— when Bailey whipped out his sunglasses and asked when he could wear them, I got excited because I could see that HE was excited about it. I love how these turned out and here are a few of my favorites!

When the leaves are no longer on the trees, my favorite locations for engagement sessions are downtown/city spots! Especially around the holidays with the hanging twinkling lights, the vibe is cozy, the architecture provides interest, and long coats add texture. As long as it’s not freezing (so that noses aren’t running and extremities aren’t turning funny colors!), the off season can make for some of my favorite images. Here are some of my favorites from Alex and Benji’s December session, on an unseasonably warm day near 50 degrees, in downtown Detroit!

When I first chatted with Grace, one of the first things we talked about was the fact that I worked on both the East Coast and in Michigan. While she and Bo are going to get married in Grand Rapids summer of 2024, she desperately wanted engagement photos on Nantucket, where she and Bo summer every year and where Bo’s grandparents have a home. Luckily, our dates aligned and the week they were on Nantucket happened to be the week I was in Newport for a wedding, so I hopped the ferry (with the kids and nanny in tow!) and we made a day trip of it! We went to the Whaling Museum in the morning (highly recommend!), I photographed Grace and Bo in the afternoon while the nanny hung with the kids, and then we went shopping and had dinner before taking the ferry back to our hotel on the Cape. Even though it was raining, we still had an amazing day, and I LOVE how the photos turned out! A light drizzle isn’t always bad at the beach…it usually means its empty so no beach goers in the background! And no squinting because its overcast :) . Here are a few of my favorites from their session!

I met up with Patricia and Devin at the beautiful Dow Gardens in Midland for their engagement session. It was my first time at these gardens and they were an instant favorite! Seriously- such a stunning place for a shoot! And- there isn’t a permit fee to shoot there! We had a wonderful summer evening strolling through the gardens— here are a few of my favorites!

One of my favorite things to do is walk around downtown Detroit finding new streets, corners, and nooks with my couples to photograph them in. My goal is to find one new little spot or angle every time I shoot to keep myself challenged, work fresh, and make sure my couples have some unique shots in addition to every one’s faves (like Shinola!). I had so much fun walking around with Lexi and Jimmy, and we had the most pleasant November day. We even found a tree with leaves still on for a fall look! You would never know that this was directly next to a large construction zone. Here are a few of my favorites from their session!

When Ashley and Jake asked to have their engagement session at the new Roosevelt Park, I was so excited! It had just re-opened a couple of weeks earlier, and its always so fun to shoot at new locations. Detroit locations like the DIA can become crowded, so its nice to have more options. They did such a nice job with Roosevelt Park….the old train station is such a landmark and then the landscaping with all of the hydrangeas was so pretty! Excited to shoot here again in the future!

One of the nice things about working two regions is that I’ve made a little niche for myself- people who have connections to both. This is exactly the case with Daniel and Jean…they are getting married at Shinola in Detroit in 2024, but currently live, work and go to graduate school in Boston. We were able to do their engagement session in Boston this summer when I was in town for a wedding I was photographing over Labor Day weekend. It worked out perfectly, we got gorgeous weather, and I love what we captured. Here are a few of my favorites!