If you’re from Michigan, you know the magic of summer here. Those long, gray winters eventually give way to a few glorious months of perfect weather and abundant sunshine. Days stretch late into the evening, perfect for outdoor adventures before the cool air settles in for cozy campfire nights. As a Colorado transplant, this is my fourth Michigan summer, and I’ve quickly learned to seize every moment of this incredible season.

These past few weeks have been a whirlwind of family shoots, as everyone rushes to capture their summer memories. It’s the ideal time to get those Christmas card photos done, though fall, with its vibrant foliage, can also be beautiful (if a bit more unpredictable with the cooling weather). My clients often ask for location ideas, so I’ve compiled a list of my favorite places to shoot in West Michigan during these sun-drenched months.

1. The Big Lake: Lake Michigan

The most obvious choice, and for good reason! Lake Michigan offers endless opportunities with its sandy beaches, stunning blue water, and vast skies. While some might consider it cliché, I respectfully disagree. With a bit of exploration, you can find plenty of quiet, secluded beaches perfect for capturing your family in moments where so many of our favorite Michigan summer memories are made. The expansive views and natural beauty provide a timeless backdrop that never gets old.

2. An Orchard Escape

Michigan is renowned for its bountiful orchards, and they offer a serene, picturesque setting for family photos. I recently had a fantastic shoot at Overhiser Orchard, and it was a dream! You’ll typically need to contact the staff in advance to schedule your shoot and pay a small fee, but the folks at Overhiser were incredibly friendly. One worker even drove me around to help me find the absolute perfect spot among the cherry trees. It can be especially fun to get some action shots if you plan to pick apples or cherries while you’re there.

3. Lakeside Retreats: Local Inland Lakes

For a different lakeside vibe, local lakes like Gun Lake and Reeds Lake offer a wonderful blend of natural beauty. Both feature a mix of lush forests, expansive green grass, and, of course, beautiful lake backdrops.

• Reeds Lake is a convenient central location for many, with well-manicured areas that are easy to explore and provide diverse backdrops.
• Gun Lake boasts a beautiful state park with numerous small beach access points and shallow water, perfect for splashing around up to your knees. These spots can be less crowded than Lake Michigan, making it easier to find a private location for your session.

And if you’re one of the fortunate few with a lake house, it’s a no-brainer – capturing your photos right there allows you to remember all the special times family gathers at the house.

4. Park Playtime: Local Parks

West Michigan is dotted with fantastic parks, and they offer a wealth of opportunities for playful, authentic photos. I recently had a blast shooting at Fallasburg Park in Lowell and ending our shoot with some fun in the water!

Beyond a beautiful backdrop, parks offer a dynamic environment where your family can simply be. Instead of a rigid, posed session, a park provides the perfect playground for genuine moments to unfold naturally. The open, grassy fields are ideal for letting kids run wild, chase a ball, or play a game of tag. This freedom to move and expend energy not only keeps them happy and engaged but also results in joyful, unforced smiles that light up the camera.

For a bit of exploration, many parks feature a winding path or a small stream. Walking hand-in-hand down a trail allows for sweet, candid shots of your family together, sharing conversation and laughter. And for the little adventurers, a stream is a world of wonder—whether they’re carefully stepping on rocks, splashing their fingers in the water, or simply marveling at the ripples. These small interactions and moments of curiosity are what create truly memorable and personal photographs, capturing your family’s unique connection far better than any studio backdrop ever could.

5. Home Sweet Home: Your Own Space

Some of my absolute favorite shoots take place right in the comfort of your own home. If you have decent natural lighting and can clear a bit of clutter from your living space, it truly is the best place to capture your family feeling genuinely at ease. These in-home sessions are laid-back, fun, and offer a welcome escape from the summer heat. They capture the real, everyday magic of your family life.

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What are your favorite West Michigan locations for summer memories? I’m always eager to explore more of this beautiful state, so let me know your thoughts! I’d love to be your photographer this summer and help you capture lasting memories at your favorite place.