Detroit Engagement Photographer for Couples Who Want Photos That Feel Like Them
Think of your engagement session as a date in the Motor city, with me tagging along as your mostly-invisible third wheel.
I’ll step in when the light is good, then step back so you can just be yourselves. We’ll laugh, wander, and make images that feel alive. As a Detroit engagement photographer, I love capturing real moments in places that mean something to you — from Belle Isle to your favorite dive bar.
Detroit engagement photos on 35mm film + digital.
Why Choose a Detroit Engagement Photographer Who Knows the City
Detroit engagement photo locations can look completely different depending on light, time of day, and the vibe you want. After almost 10 years photographing both engagement sessions and wedding photography, I know which corners of the Riverwalk stay quiet, which murals hit different at sunset, and how to sneak gorgeous shots inside the Guardian or Fisher buildings. You don’t have to stress about scouting, I’ve got that covered. All you need to do is enjoy yourselves.
Supporting a Detroit engagement photographer means supporting the local community I love. I’m proud to keep my work rooted here.
I don’t storyboard your day…I witness it. Sometimes I’ll guide you into good light. Sometimes I’ll wait until you forget I’m even there. Think candid, documentary-style with a little editorial polish when it counts.
The goal? Photos that look like you, not like everyone else.
What to Expect During Your Engagement Session
During your engagement photos in Detroit, expect a process that’s relaxed, fun, and a little goofy.
The first 15 minutes will feel awkward — that’s normal. By the time we’re wandering Belle Isle or sipping coffee in your favorite shop, you’ll forget I’m there.
I’ll guide you into great light and prompt natural movement, not stiff poses.
The goal? Engagement photos that look like you, not like everyone else
How to Make the Most of Your Engagement Photos in Detroit
Pick a spot that feels right. Your Detroit engagement photo locations don’t need to be fancy. Some of the best photos happen at a neighborhood park, your favorite bar, or your front porch. A few of my favorite Detroit photoshoot locations include: Belle Isle Park, Detroit Institute of Arts, and Campus Martius Park.
Choose somewhere with meaning. The place you walk your dog or the lot where you first said “I love you” might just become your favorite photo backdrop.
Wear what feels like you. Whether that’s dressed-up glam or sneakers and a band tee, comfort always makes better pictures.
Bring your vision. Shooting in a vintage car? Dancing in an empty parking lot? I’m in. Together we’ll make something personal.
Engagement Photography Packages in Metro Detroit
Engagement photos in Metro Detroit start at $500/hour. Each session includes one hour of photography, 35mm + 120mm film, plus digital backups. All final images are delivered in an online gallery for you to download, print, and share.
Reach out today to inquire about availability and book.
FAQs with Detroit engagement photographer
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Spring, summer, and fall will have the best outdoor weather if you’re not into the cold. Remember that July and August can be really hot and humid! May, June, and September tend to be Detroiters’ favorite times to do engagement photos, because the weather is nice, the days are still long, and key locations aren’t as busy.
If you want to do your photos indoors, book during the winter! The place of your choosing will be much less busy during this time of year. Plus, I love the way winter sunlight hits. It’s gentle and glowing!
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One hour is a perfect amount of time to take photos. Any more than that, you’ll get tired of taking pictures! During one hour, we will shoot about 3-4 rolls of film, which comes out to around 50-70 photos in your gallery.
I recommend booking more than one hour if you want to do multiple detroit engagement photo locations and there is travel between the locations.
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I love fashion, so I’m always down to help with outfit selection! I can tell you what outfits might photograph well together, and what colors will look nice on film.
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Yes! I typically shoot around 2-4 rolls of film during an engagement photoshoot, depending on the lighting. Sometimes, digital performs better in certain lighting situations, so I bring both digital and film cameras to every photoshoot.
You can expect around 50-70 images in your final gallery.
What Detroit Couples Say About Their Engagement Photos with Kari
“Kari is a one-of-a-kind, absolute gem…She was so thoughtful and considerate of our wants for our photography and she delivered 100-fold. We couldn't be happier with the photos we got from Kari. Anyone who wants a personalized photography experience with someone who you'll feel like family with by the end should absolutely choose Kari to photograph your event!”
— Christina & Georgi
“We had such a fantastic experience with Kari. We truly cannot say one negative thing. She made us feel so comfortable…she truly made us feel like family and she is such an artist! We look at our gallery often and are continuously blown away by the quality and how perfect our pictures turned out. We highly recommend Kari!”
— Maura & Nina
“Kari is such a talented photographer. We had the pleasure of working with her for our engagement photo sessions and she helped us capture our love story in all the locations in Detroit and beyond that mean the most to us. We were camera shy, but Kari was able to make us feel so comfortable and relaxed in front of the camera. We truly cannot thank her enough for our incredible set of engagement photos!”