20 Dreamy Northern Michigan Wedding Venues You’ll Fall in Love With
Wedding Planning Tips Leah Gauthier Wedding Planning Tips Leah Gauthier

20 Dreamy Northern Michigan Wedding Venues You’ll Fall in Love With

Searching for the perfect Northern Michigan wedding venue? From elegant lakeside resorts to charming barns and vineyard views, this curated list features some of the most stunning places to say “I do.” Whether you're dreaming of something romantic, rustic, or totally timeless, there’s a venue here for every kind of couple—photographer-approved and full of heart.

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How to Build a Successful Photography Business in 2025 | My Best Tips & Strategy
Photography Education Leah Gauthier Photography Education Leah Gauthier

How to Build a Successful Photography Business in 2025 | My Best Tips & Strategy

Ready to turn your photography passion into a thriving business in 2025? In this post, I’m sharing my top tips and strategy for starting and growing a successful photography business—from choosing a content plan to building an unforgettable client experience. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refresh your brand, this guide will help you build something meaningful and profitable.

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If I Was Starting My Photography Business Over Again in 2025…Here’s What I’d Do Differently
Photography Education Leah Gauthier Photography Education Leah Gauthier

If I Was Starting My Photography Business Over Again in 2025…Here’s What I’d Do Differently

Thinking about starting your photography business in 2025? In this post, I’m sharing everything I wish I knew when I first got started—from the gear I’d buy (and what to skip) to editing, legal setup, and how to actually start getting clients. Whether you're brand new or looking to finally take your business seriously, this guide will help you build a photography business with confidence, purpose, and clarity.

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The Winters’ Maternity Session at the Botanical Gardens in Traverse City, Michigan
Families Leah Gauthier Families Leah Gauthier

The Winters’ Maternity Session at the Botanical Gardens in Traverse City, Michigan

Ali and Christian’s maternity session at the Botanical Gardens in Traverse City was nothing short of magical. After capturing their engagement photos here, it felt so special to return for this new chapter in their lives. This spot has become a meaningful place for their growing family, and I couldn’t be more honored to document it. From the dreamy gardens to the golden fields, every moment was filled with love and anticipation for their little one’s arrival!

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The Second Half of My Branding Photos | Traverse City Photographer
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The Second Half of My Branding Photos | Traverse City Photographer

The second half of my branding photoshoot was just as fun and empowering—this time with Mandie behind the camera! We focused on capturing my personality, creativity, and the heart behind my work as a Traverse City photographer. Branding photos are such a powerful way to connect with your audience and showcase who you are. If you’re thinking about a branding session in Northern Michigan, I’d love to help bring your vision to life!

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My New Branding Photos | Traverse City Photographer
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My New Branding Photos | Traverse City Photographer

Branding photos aren’t just about looking professional—they’re about telling your story! I recently had the most fun, empowering branding session at Hudson & Co. Studio in Traverse City, MI, and I’m officially obsessed. From curating outfits that reflect my brand to watching my work come to life in creative flat lays, this experience reminded me just how important it is to show up in your business. If you’ve been thinking about a branding photoshoot, this is your sign to do it—and I’d love to be your photographer!

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Get to Know Your Photographer | Northern Michigan Wedding & Family Photographer
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Get to Know Your Photographer | Northern Michigan Wedding & Family Photographer

Hi, I’m Leah! I’m a Northern Michigan wedding and family photographer based near Traverse City, and I truly believe that connection with your photographer makes all the difference. I want to feel like a friend when I arrive—not just another vendor—so you can relax and enjoy every moment. From growing up in Elk Rapids to building my dream business while raising two boys, photography has been part of my life in so many ways. Get to know more about me, my journey, and the heart behind my work!

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The Story of How I Met My Husband Adam | A Personal Love Story
Personal Leah Gauthier Personal Leah Gauthier

The Story of How I Met My Husband Adam | A Personal Love Story

People always ask me how Adam and I met, and honestly, it’s one of my favorite stories to tell. It’s a mix of timing, fate, and a little bit of humor—because, of course, nothing in my life happens without a few funny moments along the way. I never could have guessed that meeting him would change everything, but here we are. So, if you’re up for a little trip down memory lane, here’s the story of how I met my husband, Adam.

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Courtney & Jay’s Romantic Beach Engagement at The Dam Beach in Elk Rapids, MI | Northern Michigan Engagement Photographer
Engagements Leah Gauthier Engagements Leah Gauthier

Courtney & Jay’s Romantic Beach Engagement at The Dam Beach in Elk Rapids, MI | Northern Michigan Engagement Photographer

Courtney and Jay’s engagement session at The Dam Beach in Elk Rapids was the best mix of fun, laughter, and golden-hour magic. We explored the greenery, ran through the sand, and even ended the night in the water! I always love when couples are up for a little adventure—it makes for the most carefree and beautiful moments. This Northern Michigan engagement session was definitely one for the books!

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Sam & Max’s Romantic Engagement Session | Northern Michigan Engagement Photographer
Engagements Leah Gauthier Engagements Leah Gauthier

Sam & Max’s Romantic Engagement Session | Northern Michigan Engagement Photographer

Sam and Max’s engagement session was everything I love about capturing love stories—so much laughter, the sweetest connection, and the dreamiest golden-hour light. We took their photos on Sam’s family property in Owosso, Michigan, a place filled with meaning and memories. From romantic moments by the pond to the cutest paddle boat photos, this session was one for the books! I already consider Sam a friend, and I cannot wait to photograph their wedding this summer!

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Ziegler Family’s Spring Orchard Photoshoot in Northern Michigan
Families Leah Gauthier Families Leah Gauthier

Ziegler Family’s Spring Orchard Photoshoot in Northern Michigan

Spring in Northern Michigan brings the most magical backdrop—blooming cherry blossoms—and the Ziegler family’s session was nothing short of breathtaking. Captured in the soft glow of golden light, their love and joy shine through every image. If you’ve been dreaming of a light and airy family session surrounded by blossoms, this gallery is pure inspiration!

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AJ & Delaney’s Engagement Photos at Pierce Stocking Drive | Sleeping Bear Dunes, MI
Engagements Leah Gauthier Engagements Leah Gauthier

AJ & Delaney’s Engagement Photos at Pierce Stocking Drive | Sleeping Bear Dunes, MI

AJ & Delaney’s engagement session at Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Sleeping Bear Dunes was filled with golden-hour light, breathtaking Lake Michigan views, and so much joy! From sandy trails to epic overlooks, this Northern Michigan location made for the perfect backdrop. See all the highlights from their adventure-filled session!

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Cameron & Brooke’s Empire Bluff Engagement Photos | Sleeping Bear Dunes Near Traverse City, MI
Engagements Leah Gauthier Engagements Leah Gauthier

Cameron & Brooke’s Empire Bluff Engagement Photos | Sleeping Bear Dunes Near Traverse City, MI

Cameron & Brooke’s engagement session at Empire Bluff Trail near Sleeping Bear Dunes was nothing short of magical! With breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and golden-hour light, this Northern Michigan location made the perfect backdrop for their love story. See all the highlights from this stunning adventure-filled session!

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Hannah & Joe’s Catholic Wedding at St. Joseph’s | BlueBridge Reception in Traverse City, MI
Weddings Leah Gauthier Weddings Leah Gauthier

Hannah & Joe’s Catholic Wedding at St. Joseph’s | BlueBridge Reception in Traverse City, MI

Hannah & Joe’s wedding day was nothing short of magical! From their heartfelt Catholic ceremony at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Old Mission Peninsula to their lively reception at BlueBridge Event Center in Traverse City, every moment was filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. See all the highlights from their stunning Northern Michigan wedding!

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