I noticed that all of the spots on the Michigan page are state parks and other types of scenic and historical spots. Those are great, but as a photog in the Detroit burbs, I am more interested in those cool little spots I can take a client to for portraits, engagement sessions, senior pics, etc. To that end, and in the hopes more people will share their little gems, here are a few spots I like:
ROYAL OAK:
1) The park that is at Catalpa and the train tracks (between Main and Woodward). This is a dog friendly park with tons of very tall trees that afford great open shade. Wonderful spot for engagements, senior and family portraits, especially if your client wants to include their pet.
2) Train tracks that run thru downtown RO, just north of 4th St, between Washington and Center. There is a cool little store that has the word FLAIR painted large on an aqua brick wall. The tracks from there disappear into the trees and give a good perspective shot. The wall or the tracks work great for seniors and other edgy type pics. If you hear the bells signalling a train, do not hesitate to get off these tracks immediately. This is a busy track used by shipping trains and Amtrak. Be smart, not dead
WIXOM:
1) Wixom Rd, just north of Pontiac Trail. There is a set of old tracks that are no longer used that are on the south side of Wixom Elementary School. There is a parking lot, also unused, and a huge tree right next to the tracks. This is a favorite spot of mine and it photographs beautifully.
ROCHESTER:
1) Yates Cider Mill. There is a cool park immediately next to the Cider Mill with lots of open shade. For a few different photos, head across the street to the city park. To the left by the river there is a nice sandy area. Test the sand before you walk out with your gear...it sinks like quicksand in a few spots. Same with stepping into the water to get a shot. Slippery, so test your footing without your camera in hand. To the far, far right of the park is a small waterfall/dam area. If you head down the grassy slopes to the water where people fish sometimes, you can get the waterfall behind your subject.
(sorry not a better image of that. Lots of blow-outs in that session. It happens.)
KENSINGTON STATE PARK:
1) This state park is located at the Kent Lake Rd exit from I-96, between Wixom and Brighton. There is a bike/walking path that runs around the entire lake and there are tons of great little niches and areas for photos. The path is about 8 miles around, so don't plan to walk it with your clients fully, but def worth taking the time to ride your bike and take note of the areas you like so you can then DRIVE to them with your clients
Lots of cool wooden bridges (not covered, just over creeks and such), docks and decks for fishing that are great spots to have the water behind clients, grassy knolls and alcoves and of course the two beaches. At color changing time, the leaves here are spectacular for fall portraits.
I hope these spots help out someone else too! Happy snapping!
-Beth
http://www.limitless-photo.com
