top of page

Best Photo Locations in Grand Rapids (and Beyond!) for Your Next Session

Writer's picture: Stephanie BrownStephanie Brown

So, you’re booking a photo session (yay!), but now comes the big question—where should we take your pictures? The location sets the mood, brings out your personality, and makes all the difference in how your final gallery turns out.


Lucky for you, West Michigan is FULL of amazing places for photos, whether you want urban cityscapes, golden fields, dreamy forests, or the perfect beach sunset(yes, we’ve got that too). Here are some of my favorite locations that look incredible in every season!


My Go-To Locations for Stunning Photos


1. The Highlands – My All-Time Favorite

If I could only shoot in one place forever, The Highlands would be it. This spot has rolling fields, wooded trails, and tall grasses that catch the light in the most magical way. It’s absolutely stunning year-round—lush greens in the summer, golden tones in the fall, snow-covered trees in the winter, and soft pastels in the spring. If you love nature but want something a little more unique than a typical park, this qis it.


2. Grand Haven Beach


Want a sunset beach session? Let’s head to Grand Haven! The combination of sandy shores, rolling dunes, and that iconic lighthouse makes for truly dreamy photos. The best part? Golden hour here is next-level gorgeous. Whether you’re running barefoot along the water or cozied up in the dunes, beach sessions always feel relaxed, fun, and effortlessly beautiful.


3. Prairie Wolf Park – A Hidden Gem in Byron Center

I LOVE this spot. Prairie Wolf Park has wide-open fields, tall grasses, and peaceful wooded trails that give off a dreamy, natural vibe. It’s one of my go-to locations, especially in the fall when everything turns warm and golden. If you want a mix of open skies and woodsy backdrops, this is a perfect choice.


4. The Amway Grand Plaza

If you’re looking for elegant and sophisticated, you can’t go wrong with the Amway Grand Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids. The historic architecture, stunning chandeliers, and classic decor make for luxurious, high-end portraits—perfect for engagement sessions or a more polished, formal feel.


5. The Blue Bridge


Want something iconic and urban? The Blue Bridge in downtown Grand Rapids is one of the city’s most famous spots. Whether we’re capturing movement, city lights, or that golden glow at sunset, it’s always a solid choice. Plus, the pedestrian-friendly setup makes it super easy to get a variety of shots without dodging traffic.


6. Grand Rapids Downtown Market


For something modern, bright, and a little different, the Downtown Market is a perfect pick. The huge glass windows, greenery, and sleek industrial vibes make it a fun and fresh setting. Perfect for engagement sessions, branding shoots, or even a cozy couples’ session inside with coffee and pastries!


7. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park


This is hands down one of the most visually stunning places to shoot. If you love botanical gardens, unique sculptures, and dreamy greenhouse settings, you’ll love Meijer Gardens. It’s also an amazing option for winter sessions since the indoor gardens stay lush and green even when there’s snow outside! (Heads up: they do require a permit for professional photography.)


8. The Civic Auditorium


If you love classic, timeless architecture, the Civic Auditorium is a great pick. The grand columns and elegant stonework give off a sophisticated and high-end feel. If you’re dressing up for your session, this is a location that will complement formal attire beautifully.


9. Monroe Center Street


This little stretch of downtown Grand Rapids has so much personality! Cute storefronts, brick-paved streets, and plenty of charming nooks make it perfect for lifestyle-style photos—especially if you want a fun, casual, “out and about” feel.


10. Heritage Hill Historic District


Old, charming homes? Check. Gorgeous tree-lined streets? Check. Heritage Hill is a dreamy and romantic setting, especially in the fall when the leaves start changing. If you love classic, storybook-like backgrounds, this one’s for you.


11. Pearl Street Bridge


One of the best city skyline views in Grand Rapids! Whether you want to capture the downtown lights, river reflections, or a classic cityscape, the Pearl Street Bridgedelivers every time.


12. Monroe Center Parking Garage (Rooftop)

This might sound a little unconventional, but trust me—it’s SO cool. The rooftop of the Monroe Center Parking Garage gives us an edgy, urban setting with amazing panoramic city views. It’s perfect for seniors, couples, or anyone looking for something a little different from the usual park setting.


13. Provin Trails


If you love tall pine trees, winding trails, and soft, golden light filtering through the woods, Provin Trails is a must. It’s a little slice of fairytale magic tucked right inside the city. Perfect for engagements, family sessions, and anyone who wants that dreamy forest feel.


14. Millennium Park


This place is MASSIVE, which means we can find tons of different backdrops all in one spot. There’s a lake, a covered bridge, wooded trails, and open fields, making it a great all-around choice for family and engagement sessions.


15. Riverside Park


Located right along the Grand River, Riverside Park is great if you want open green spaces, water reflections, and a peaceful, natural vibe. It’s especially pretty in the fall when the leaves change, but it works beautifully in any season.


How to Pick the Perfect Spot for Your Photo Session


Still undecided? Here’s how to choose the best location for your session:


What’s your vibe? Do you want something elegant and polished (Amway Grand), natural and airy (Prairie Wolf Park), or fun and modern (Downtown Market)?

What season are we shooting in? Some spots shine in summer, while others are pure magic in the fall or winter.

What will you wear? Outfits should complement the location—think soft, earthy tones for nature settings and bolder colors for urban settings.

Do you want variety? Some locations (like Millennium Park or The Highlands) offer multiple backdrops in one place, while others are more focused.


Let’s Plan Your Session!


No matter where we shoot, the most important thing is that the location feels authentic to you. Whether you’re drawn to sunset at the beach, golden fields at The Highlands, or twinkling city lights downtown, we’ll find the perfect place to bring your vision to life.


Ready to book? Let’s make some magic together!

16 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

댓글


bottom of page