When a high school senior is willing to wake up before the sun and drive across the state for senior pictures, you know the session is going to be something special.
That’s exactly what Isabelle did.
She’s a senior at Comstock Park High School just outside Grand Rapids, and after coming across my work online, she knew she wanted something different — something beyond the usual park session or brick wall. She and her family made the trip all the way to Belle Isle in Detroit for a golden-hour sunrise session, and wow… the results speak for themselves.
The early morning light on Belle Isle is absolutely unmatched. Soft, directional, and golden — the kind of glow you just can’t fake with filters. Isabelle was incredible to work with. From the quiet confidence in her poses to the way her white eyelet dress flowed in the breeze, the whole shoot had this polished-yet-effortless feel that makes a session truly unforgettable.
We started by the Belle Isle Fountain as the sun began to peek over the Detroit skyline. From there, we moved through some of my favorite spots on the island — places that give just the right amount of drama without ever overpowering the senior in the frame. It’s exactly why Belle Isle is one of my all-time favorite locations, and why so many students — even from hours away — decide it’s worth the trip.
Excellent Experience
We had an Excellent experience with Paul! Super professional, customizing the shoot for our wants/needs of our senior & us as parents- we found that happy medium sweet spot that worked for everyone. We & our senior were very happy! We found Paul from a ‘best senior pictures in Michigan’ search on Facebook & found him Right away! Looked through a lot of photos on socials & on his site along with Lots of helpful guides & reading materials on his page about ideas, locations & sample pictures for senior photos. It’s clear that Paul’s specialty is senior pictures & that he loves what he does! He really understands the perfect settings & lighting & angles! Very experienced! We as a family can really appreciate & recognize great photography work & Paul’s a wealth of knowledge on the subject for sure! There was lots on his site to help you prepare for your session, plan outfits, coordinate best weather dates, locations, & times etc. He was very accommodating to us! These things were all super important to us so when we found his pricing to be quite reasonable, given his level of skill, expertise & accolades, we booked him right away!
If you're looking for a senior pictures experience that feels more like a destination session than just another local shoot, let Isabelle’s session be your inspiration. Michigan has no shortage of beautiful spots — but Belle Isle senior pictures at sunrise? It’s in a league of its own.
👉 Curious about what makes Detroit such an amazing backdrop? Check out the Detroit Senior Pictures page for more inspiration and ideas.
Want Your Own Travel-Worthy Senior Session?
Whether you're from Metro Detroit or planning a trip in like Isabelle did, let's create something completely unique for your senior year.
📆 Booking for summer and fall is now open!
📞 Call or text: 313-883-9500
📩 Or reach out through my contact form
Sneak Peek
Recommendations
OMGGG!!! STUNNING Paul!!! There are just no words!! These are Absolutely Fabulous!! You’re the Best! Thank You SO much!! Belle looks breathtakingly beautiful! She will be SO happy! 😍