If you’re planning your engagement session in Southeastern Michigan (primarily Detroit and north), you’re in luck! This region is full of diverse and stunning locations that offer a perfect backdrop for your love story. Whether you’re drawn to an urban setting scenic nature, or something in between, there’s a spot for you. Here are some of the best engagement session locations that I have personally worked at in Southeastern Michigan:
1. Downtown Detroit
Detroit offers a vibrant mix of urban charm and historic elegance. The Detroit Riverwalk, Campus Martius Park, and the historic architecture of the city make for striking engagement photos. The city’s iconic landmarks, murals, and rooftop views create a bold and dynamic backdrop.
Best Time of Year: any time of the year. Different seasons offer different opportunities!
2. Belle Isle Conservatory – Detroit
For a touch of natural beauty in the heart of the city, Belle Isle is a must-visit. The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory provides a lush, tropical setting with gorgeous greenery year-round. The island also features picturesque bridges, waterfront views, and the James Scott Memorial Fountain.
Permit Required: Yes, you will need a state parks pass to enter the island and a permit to photograph in the conservatory.
Best Time of Year: Spring/Early Summer
3. Nichols Arboretum – Ann Arbor
This botanical garden is a dream for nature lovers. Located near the University of Michigan, Nichols Arboretum features rolling meadows, wooded trails, and seasonal blooms that add a soft, romantic feel to engagement photos. The peony garden in late spring is particularly breathtaking.
Best Time of Year: Spring time/Early Summer for more flower blooms. Fall for leaf changes.
4. Rochester Municipal Park – Rochester
Rochester Municipal Park offers a mix of charming bridges, walking trails, and peaceful water features. The park’s lush greenery and vibrant fall foliage make it a perfect spot for any season. It’s a quiet yet scenic location ideal for intimate, romantic photos. The park can get a bit busy at times (especially in the summer time), but there are plenty of little pockets where it gets quieter and away from most people. For summertime and warmer months, there is also the river that runs through the park.
Best Time of Year: All seasons
5. Stony Creek Metropark – Shelby Township
If you’re looking for a location with a mix of lakes, forests, and open fields, Stony Creek Metropark is a fantastic choice. The park provides endless opportunities for variety, from waterfront shots to dreamy golden hour sessions in grassy meadows. Keep in mind, the time of year that you schedule your engagement session at Stony Creek does make a difference on how busy it will be. Summertime will be packed to the brim. Check out my feature on Stony Creek in this blog post!
Permit Required: You will need a Metroparks Pass to enter or there is a $10 daily fee that can be paid at the entrance gate.
Best Time of Year: All seasons
6. Wolcott Mill Metropark
This historic park features a charming old mill, rustic barns, and wooded trails, giving it a timeless, country feel. It’s a great location for couples who want a rustic or vintage aesthetic for their engagement photos. This is definitely a park that I have a lot of photo experience with and know all of the fantastic spots. Plus, if you are willing to walk a bit on the trails, you can find some hidden gems deep in the park.
Permit Required: You will need a Metroparks Pass to enter or there is a $10 daily fee that can be paid at the entrance gate.
Best Time of Year: All seasons, especially in the fall when the leaves change
7. Goodells County Park – Goodells
For a quiet, rural engagement session, Goodells County Park is a hidden gem. The historic buildings, scenic trails, and charming covered bridge offer a variety of beautiful backdrops for your engagement photos. The huge barns and chapel building provide a variety of textures. Plus, there is expansive fields if you want that openess.
Best Time of Year: All seasons
8. Fort Gratiot Lighthouse – Fort Gratiot
For couples who love the water, Fort Gratiot Lighthouse is a stunning location. As Michigan’s oldest lighthouse, it provides a picturesque maritime setting with beautiful views of Lake Huron and the Blue Water Bridge bridging the U.S.A. and Canada. The sandy beaches and dramatic sky make for breathtaking engagement photos. Plus, then you can head downtown Port Huron and hit up some of the wonderful restaurants and pubs.
Best Time of Year: Spring/Summer/Fall
9. Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth, known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria”, is a charming town filled with European-inspired architecture, covered bridges, and beautiful seasonal decor. Whether you visit during the holiday season with twinkling lights or in the summer with blooming flowers, this town has a magical feel.
Best Time of Year: All seasons, especially in the winter for the holiday decor and festivities
10. Sleeper State Park – Caseville
For a beachy engagement session, Sleeper State Park on the shores of Lake Huron is a perfect spot. The sandy dunes, wooded trails, and serene waters make for stunning, relaxed engagement photos with a natural, carefree vibe.
Best Time of Year: Spring and Fall. There are less people on the beach during the off seasons.
Where Will Your Love Story Take You?
Choosing the right location for your engagement session depends on your style and personality as a couple. Whether you’re drawn to the energy of the city, the charm of small towns, or the beauty of Michigan’s natural landscapes, there’s a perfect spot for you. No matter which location you choose, your engagement session will be a beautiful reflection of your love story!
I have so many ideas for locations for engagement sessions. These are just some of my favorites. To learn more about how you can book your engagement session with me, reach out on my website or Instagram!
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