There are some sessions that feel like pure magic from beginning to end. And this photoshoot was exactly that. Taking these photos on Walloon Lake with Mikki and Ashton was absolutely incredible.
Let’s rewind to how we even met. My fiancé Dawson and I were out at one of our all-time favorite spots, Barrel Back (best place ever) when we ended up giving Mikki and Ashton a ride home. I know, kind of wild, especially considering where I’m from you definitely don’t get in the car with strangers. But I guess there’s just something about northern Michigan that makes the world feel a little smaller and safer. Since then, Dawson and I see Mikki and Ashton a few times throughout the year when they visit Ashton’s family nearby.
I love, love, LOVE Walloon Lake with my whole heart and have been wanting to do a cinematic session on the lake for a while. So, of course I had to ask Mikki and Ashton if they’d be up for doing a photoshoot together. It was their first time ever getting photos taken together, and WOW, did they bring the energy.
These two are so full of joy and affection. The way they looked at each other made me giddy behind the camera. I totally loved that they were down for anything — even jumping into the lake.
Summertime Creativity
I’ve been dreaming of a creative session like this for a long time, one that really captured the vibes of summertime spent on the lake. We did the session during the most beautiful golden hour. I approached the session a little differently than usual. I wanted to capture the sunny, golden glow on their skin, even when it makes the photos harder to edit. But leaning into that light made these feel so magical. Definitely worth it!
We started the session at Ashton’s family home on the lake, using their dock to set the tone. We continue the photoshoot by taking the boat out on the lake. I used my film camera here and there during the session and I could not be happier with how the shots turned out.
Which, by the way — FILM is now a part of all my wedding photography packages! I’ve been loving the nostalgic element that film brings. (And, I can’t wait to share the film that I’ve been taking at weddings recently!!! Stay tuned!)
The warmth, the water, the golden light, the dock, the boat… ALL OF IT felt so romantic and cinematic to me. I wanted these photos to feel like a memory Mikki and Ashton could step into and easily be right back in that moment in time. Basically, I wanted these photos to scream SUMMER ON WALLOON — and I feel like they did just that.
After the session, we all went out for dinner and drinks at Barrel Back, where we all first met. It turned out to be such an amazing summer night.
Walloon Lake Photos
If you or someone you know is getting married on Walloon Lake (or even considering it) — let’s talk! I would absolutely LOVE to be a part of your day. As a local, and as someone who loves this lake with my entire heart, your wedding photos here will reflect that and be TOP NOTCH.
I’m always inspired not just by my couple’s love stories but also where they get married. I’ve been endlessly inspired by this place, and I know that your Walloon Lake wedding photos could perfectly capture the magic of your love and the beauty of this location.
Want to start the convo? Let’s connect!!! Click here to send an inquiry my way!
