When Lincoln and his family began planning his senior pictures, they knew they wanted to head from Fenton to Ann Arbor. Lincoln is in his final year at Oakland International Academy, and the University of Michigan campus offered the perfect blend of architecture, urban atmosphere, and outdoor scenery that they were looking for.

We started early in the morning, one of my favorite times for graduation sessions at the University of Michigan. Not only is the soft morning light fantastic, but there’s another major advantage: we can photograph some of the busiest spots before the campus and downtown streets fully come to life.

The “Law Quad” (the Law School courtyard) was an ideal starting point. Its stone buildings, archways, courtyards, and warm lighting take on a completely different feel in the early morning; plus, Lincoln’s dark shirt and khaki pants complemented the classic architecture perfectly. We had plenty of room to move around, experiment with different compositions, and make the most of the surroundings without having to deal with crowds.

Next, we changed the setting to “Nickels Arcade.” Lincoln switched into a burgundy sweatshirt and jeans, giving the photos a much more casual vibe, while the arcade itself provided striking lines, glass ceilings, and that quintessential downtown Ann Arbor character. This contrast is precisely why I prefer to hold sessions across several different locations, rather than trying to capture everything in just one spot.

We also took time to showcase a completely different side of Ann Arbor. The autumn colors, the river, exposed tree roots, rocks, and wooded areas gave Lincoln’s session a natural, relaxed feel. If you’re a parent and aren’t sure whether to choose an urban setting or something more natural, you don’t have to settle for just one!

Lincoln’s session is also a good reminder that senior pictures don’t have to happen close to home. He lives in Fenton, but Ann Arbor was the setting that felt right for the look he and his family wanted, and that’s what matters. Senior year only happens once, so choosing a location because it fits your senior makes a whole lot more sense than choosing one simply because it’s nearby.

Want senior pictures that actually mean something? I’ll help you create a session that feels like you. Let’s plan something that tells your story and highlights where you’re headed next.

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