Ann Arbor, MI // See The Location

If you want to brave Ann Arbor, there are some amazing locations for portraits! The hardest part is finding parking, but there is some public parking on Thompson Street that gets you close to these locations I'm going to show you.

For those who want a mixture of a more urban look while still including that natural look, Ann Arbor is just about perfect. It's also nice because you can find a lot of classic looking buildings.

A quick note before we dive in. I took these photos in the middle of the afternoon in harsh light. Depending on the time of day and the weather, certain locations may not work for your session or it could have a slightly different look than these photos. Cloudy days look different than sunny days and evening light looks different than mid-day light. I just want you to know why your final gallery may look just a tad bit different than these photos.

Also, you can see an example of some of these locations by checking out Katie's session from early in my business. I still really like these photos, even though my style has changed a lot.

Nickles Arcade
I love this corridor! The glass ceiling and light stone walls make this an absolutely gorgeous place for portraits. It can be tricky to shoot around shoppers and products, but it's doable and totally worth it, in my opinion. (Parking fee required)

Recommended for: Senior Portraits

S State Street (U of M Law Campus)
All along this street are gorgeous old stone buildings. There are buildings with columns, stairs, dark stone, light stone, lanes... the options are almost endless! Because of how busy things are and the need to walk from place to place, this is not going to be an option for many people. (Parking fee required)

Recommended for: Senior Portraits & Small Families with Older Kids

This is just across the street from Nickles Arcade and is just a lovely bit of nature in the middle of Ann Arbor.

Kelsey Museum of Archeology

First Congregational Church of Ann Arbor

Michigan Union

Angell Hall

The Lawyers Club

Both of the above spots I can just picture the senior portraits we could create here!

Hutchins Hall

Island Park
Two bridges and some spots where you can get close to the water give you a few looks at Island Park. There is a playground which could be a reward for kids who do a good job smiling :) There is a pavilion there, so this would be a nice place to do a family gathering and do some photos while everyone is together.

Recommended for: Senior Portraits & Extended Family Portraits

Gallup Park
There is a lot more variety at Gallup. We have two bridge options, great water access for some in-the-water shots, a lovely overlook, some stone fencing. There is so much greenery that no matter the weather or light, there is going to be something beautiful for your session.

Recommended for: Senior & Family Portraits

County Farm Park
This park is not really set up for portraits, but there is this darling perennial garden that blooms mostly from June-September with pathways through the plants. I think it's a hidden gem and had to include it. If you are up for a bit of a walk, it would be a beautiful spot. You do have to walk right past a fun playground, so little kids might not handle that well.

Recommended for: Senior Portraits & Families With Older Kids

Parker Mill Park
This location is close to the Matthei Botanical Gardens and would be great to pair with time over there as well. The best portrait spots are down the hill behind the mill. The river is very accessible for seniors or families with older kids who want to do some wading photos :)

Recommended for: Senior & Family Portraits