I love Michigan. Let me forewarn you that that is a biased statement (born and raised here, hey!), but even those not from Michigan love it. We have the Great Lakes, beautiful nature, all four seasons (although I am seriously questioning that this year - spring, where are you?!), and Yoopers and Trolls (people who live in the UP and those who live below the Mackinac Bridge). It is also one of the best photography places.
Although I have only been to the Upper Peninsula once, I can testify how gorgeous it is up there. And it wasn't even during its popular summer season. The water is blue and gorgeous, the mountains are ideal photoshoot places, and nature is beyond beautiful. It's no wonder people love to go there for camping, vacation, and retirement. But let's not forget about Southeast Michigan, a place that not too many people credit for its beauty. In SE Michigan, we have the state capital, Lansing, the largest city, Detroit, a lot of diverse cities, Dearborn, Hamtramck, Pontiac, Farmington Hills are a few examples, and some of the most well-known universities, Michigan State, the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan Univesity, University of Detroit-Mercy, and Wayne State University.
All of this variety in Southeast Michigan allows for some very unique and worthwhile photo-ops. Just by where I live is Heritage Park (one of the places that I shot Amber's photos), a beautiful bridge over a pond along Halsted and south of 111⁄2 Mile (also a photoshoot place), and 12 Oaks Fountain Walk. Now imagine how many more photogenic places exist throughout Southeast Michigan. Check out the top 10 places to take pictures below.
Best Places for Taking Photos in Southeast Michigan
1. Detroit Riverfront: Not only do you have the Detroit River to photograph in front of, but also Canada in the background (plus the Ambassador Bridge!), the Renaissance Center in the opposite direction, Joe Louis Arena not too far away, Belle Isle nearby, a boat available (The Detroit Princess), and more. Downtown Detroit is one of the most photo-ready places available in SE Michigan.
2. Downtown Royal Oak: Here, you can find the cutest cafes, stores, and businesses. Royal Oak is unique in its city-like feeling. It is not too large, but it isn't too small. Popular attractions here is the Emagine Theatre, Buffalo Wild Wings, Royal Oak Music Theatre, Astoria's, bars and clubs, and more. Nice portraits and senior/graduation photos would be taken here.
3. Heritage Park: This park in Farmington Hills deserves a second mention. It is so beautiful here! Whether you are interested in nature (Nature Center), senior/grad photos, or family photos, this place is for you. There is so much that you can get into here: a splash-pad, horseshoe pits, volleyball, hockey rink, an Amphitheatre, cross-country skiing, grilling, an Art Studio, and more.
4. Michigan State University: Normally, college campuses are nice places to photograph at, so it's no surprise that MSU made my list. Both nature and people photography can thrive here. You can get the city side of East Lansing or stay right on campus for that feeling.
5. Comerica Park: Naturally, if you are a sports fan, you should get here and take some photos. Not only do you have the iconic tiger, you have a lot of space in or around to work with. (Just remember to check up on the rules for photography when entering the stadium! You do not want to get your camera confiscated or ejected from the game altogether.)
6. Graffiti Around Detroit: Graffiti is considered art (at least in my books). Posing in front of a few nicely done walls can make your photos very unique. Detroit is notorious for the amount of graffiti filled walls.
7. Greektown: Not only can you stop by Astoria and buy a sweet or two, you can get some really nice shots when in Greektown. You have streets bustling with people who are heading to the Greektown Casino, Pizza Papalis, or one of the many businesses lining the street. Get in the street and do a photo-op, take a closeup of the casino sign - make the most of the area!
8. Hart Plaza: Do you want a perfect view of the Detroit skyline? Or concerts or festivals? Also not too far from the Joe Louis Fist or the Spirit of Detroit, Hart Plaza is a perfect place for photos. You can walk on down from Comerica Pak or the Riverfront. Make it a day trip of exploring Detroit and getting all of the photos that your heart could desire.
9. The DIA: Not only abandoned buildings in Detroit have beautiful architecture, up and running, well-known buildings do as well! Both on the inside and outside, the Detroit Institute of Art is a perfect place for photos. Get under the arch in the entrance or walk a little further to be directly under the chandelier. Make sure to take note of the policies.
10. Eastern Market: Full of life, music, and healthy food, Eastern Market is a great place for photos. Photograph the events of the day or get your subject in between it all. Plus, there is some nice wall art waiting to be photographed.
