Your Guide to Family Photography Sessions in Saugatuck, Michigan
Life moves fast and before we know it our kids grow up, parents grow older, and moments that seem ordinary today become some of the most treasured memories tomorrow. My goal is to create a relaxed, enjoyable experience for you as I capture your family photography. I’m here to guide you through every step from choosing your location, what to wear, and planning the session details to create photographs that truly represent your family.
Oval Beach in Saugatuck, Michigan
Great Locations for Family Photos in Saugatuck, Michigan
One of the best parts of scheduling a family photography session in Saugatuck is the incredible variety of beautiful locations we can choose from. Each spot offers its own unique charm and a stunning backdrop that makes your photos feel extra special.
Oval Beach: Oval Beach is stunning. The variety of greenery, sand dunes, sparkling Lake Michigan views, and that golden sunset glow, this location is perfect for timeless, relaxed family photos. It is hard to go wrong here.
Downtown Saugatuck: For families who love a lively, colorful vibe, Downtown Saugatuck is a fantastic option. The charming streets, unique storefronts, and art filled parks provide the perfect combination of character and charm and maybe even an impromptu ice cream stop for the kids!
Your Vacation Home: If your family is visiting Saugatuck and staying in a vacation home, we can make your session even more personal by capturing moments right where you’re staying. The familiarity of your rental’s rooms, porches, or backyard adds a cozy, intimate feel to your photos.
Local Parks: Saugatuck has a variety of local parks that work beautifully for family portraits. Spaces like Saugatuck Dunes State Park or Schultz Park offer lush greenery, trails, and open areas perfect for both posed and candid shots.
The location you choose sets the tone for your session, and I’d be happy to help you pick the perfect spot based on your family’s style and preferences!
The dunes at Oval Beach with Mt. Baldy in the background.
What to Wear for Your Family Photos
Deciding what to wear for your family session doesn’t need to be stressful! The goal is to coordinate without matching too much, letting everyone’s personality shine while creating a cohesive look. Here are some tips to simplify the process:
Pick a color palette: Choose 2-3 complementary colors and have everyone’s outfits reflect those shades. Think soft neutrals, earthy tones, pastels, or blues and tans.
Add textures and layers: Knitted sweaters, flowy dresses, or even a denim jacket can add dimension and interest without being overpowering.
Avoid distractions: Busy prints, logos, or neon colors can take attention away from the family connection. Keep it simple and timeless.
Be yourself: At the end of the day, your family’s vibe matters most. Choose outfits that make you feel comfortable and confident.
I’m also happy to consult with you about wardrobe choices beforehand, just send me a quick message!
Lake Michigan Sunest
What to Expect During Your Session
Family sessions are all about easing into the moment and having fun. We’ll start by capturing the entire family group. Whether that’s a big, bustling family or a small, intimate one. These group shots are perfect for holiday cards or that framed portrait over the fireplace.
Once the family group photos are done, we’ll move onto smaller groupings. We can photograph parents together, siblings sharing giggles, or individual portraits for anyone who’d like their moment in the spotlight. If there’s a special request such as photos with the family pet or recreating a beloved family pose, I’ll make sure to include those too!
The key to a great session is making sure everyone feels relaxed and natural. I’ll guide you with poses as needed, but I also love capturing those in between moments when your family’s love and connection shine through.
Kids love to have fun at the end of the session. Great opportunity for candid pictures.
What’s Included
Every family photography session comes with digital images and print permissions. That means you’ll receive high-quality files to display, share, and print however you like. Whether you want to DIY your holiday cards or post a photo to social media, you’ll have the freedom to use these images your way.
For families looking to elevate these cherished memories, I also offer stunning wall art and custom albums. There’s nothing quite like seeing your family’s joy displayed in your home every day or flipping through an album that tells your unique story. These are legacy pieces that will be treasured for generations.
Book Your Family Session Today
Don’t wait until the kids grow another year older or schedules get even busier—there’s no time like now to capture your family’s bond. Whether you're looking for a keepsake to cherish forever or a meaningful gift for a loved one, family photography is an investment in your personal history.
Contact me to book your session or ask any questions. I’m here to help you every step of the way, from picking out the perfect wardrobe to deciding which print sizes will look best on your wall.
Together, we can create images that tell the story of your unique family full of love, laughter, and the moments that matter most.