where I get to share love-filled wedding days, the sweet chaos of family life, and the real moments that make life so beautiful.

This is where storytelling and photography come together

Bride Samantha putting on lipstick while getting ready at Heritage Wedding Barns in Shelby, Michigan before her Northern Michigan wedding.
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9/03/2025

Weddings

An elegant barn wedding at Heritage Wedding Barns in Shelby, MI—just minutes from Silver Lake Sand Dunes. Samantha & Max’s day was filled with sentimental details, joyful celebration, and an unforgettable outdoor reception under the lights. If you’re planning a Northern Michigan barn wedding, this one’s full of inspiration.

Samantha & Max’s Heritage Wedding Barns Celebration near Silver Lake Sand Dunes

Bride and groom celebrating with their bridal party in champagne dresses and black tuxedos at Indianwood Country Club in Lake Orion, Michigan.
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7/18/2025

Weddings

Lauren & PJ’s wedding at Indianwood Country Club in Lake Orion, Michigan was the perfect blend of elegance, timeless style, and joyful celebration. From their gorgeous engagement session at Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive to their classic wedding day full of castle-like vibes, I loved every moment of capturing their story.

Lauren & PJ’s Elegant Wedding at Indianwood Country Club | Lake Orion, Michigan Wedding

Couple holding each other during engagement session at Empire Bluff in Sleeping Bear Dunes.
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7/03/2025

Featured

Nicole and Austin’s dreamy engagement session at Empire Bluff Trail in Sleeping Bear Dunes was full of love, laughter, and Lake Michigan views. With their sweet pup Lapua by their side and golden light all around, this destination engagement session near Traverse City was nothing short of magical.

Empire Bluff Engagement Photos | Nicole & Austin’s Sleeping Bear Dunes Session with Their Pup

Groom dipping bride for a kiss in a sunny Northern Michigan outdoor wedding.
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7/01/2025

Weddings

Wyatt and Alicia’s Blue Sky Barn wedding in Elmira, Michigan was filled with joy, emotion, and the most unforgettable moments—including their sweet pup Timber, a surprise champagne spray, and dreamy sunset portraits in a clawfoot tub. This Northern Michigan celebration was pure magic from start to finish.

Wyatt & Alicia’s Blue Sky Barn Wedding | A Joyful & Romantic Day in Northern Michigan

Bride and groom sharing a joyful moment on their elegant dusty blue Northern Michigan wedding day
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6/25/2025

Weddings

Brooke & Cameron’s summer wedding at Blue Heron Barn in Kalamazoo, Michigan was filled with heartfelt moments, beautiful details, and so much love. From their emotional first touch to the dreamy string lights and wood-fired pizza, every part of the day was uniquely them—and such a joy to capture.

Brooke & Cameron’s Romantic Summer Wedding at Blue Heron Barn in Kalamazoo

Mother holding her baby in a blooming cherry orchard during a spring family session in Northern Michigan
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5/31/2025

Families

This sweet cherry blossom session with the Thompson family in Traverse City was extra special—it was Samantha’s very first Mother’s Day! From the blooming trees to the joy of documenting such a meaningful season, this spring family session was one I’ll never forget.

Cherry Blossom Family Photos in Traverse City | The Thompson Family

Whether you’re here for wedding inspiration, tips for a stress-free session, or a peek behind the scenes of life as a Traverse City photographer, you’re in the right place. Take a look around, and I’m so glad you’re here!

For all the latest

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10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Photographing Weddings

Photographer smiling in casual outfit — sharing advice and lessons learned from photographing weddings
Education
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If I Was Starting My Photography Business Over Again in 2025…Here’s What I’d Do Differently

Smiling photographer turning toward the camera — reflecting on lessons learned from starting a photography business
Education
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A Northern Michigan Proposal: Autumn & Paul’s Sweet Moment on the Boardman Lake Trail

Couple sharing a joyful kiss on the dock after a proposal on the Boardman Lake Trail in Northern Michigan
Engagement Sessions
Expecting couple sharing a joyful moment in a grassy field during their maternity session at the Botanical Gardens in Traverse City, Michigan
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The Winters’ Maternity Session at the Botanical Gardens in Traverse City, Michigan

Families

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

Photographer smiling in a casual black top and jeans during a branding photo session in Traverse City, Michigan
Personal
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The Griesinger Family | Family Session at Empire Beach, Northern Michigan

Family sharing a sweet moment on the shore at Empire Beach in Northern Michigan during their family photo session
Families
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My New Branding Photos | Traverse City Photographer

Black and white photo of a photographer walking confidently during a branding session in Traverse City, Michigan
Personal
Photographer sitting on a stool holding a camera, smiling — Northern Michigan wedding and family photographer branding photo
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Get to Know Your Photographer | Northern Michigan Wedding & Family Photographer

Personal

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!

The Fairs

I would highly recommend her to anyone! She is super knowledgeable and professional while also making you feel like you've known each other for years. The love she has for photography is evident in every photo she takes. We love you, Leah—you are simply the best!

"If I could give this more than five stars, I would! Leah is not only an amazing photographer, but she is also an amazing person."

The Elkins

I would choose Leah over and over again to capture any of our life’s events and moments. Her wedding photo packages are inclusive, and there’s one for everyone. She went above and beyond during the whole planning process to make sure our day was perfect. When the day came, she was such a calming presence to us both and made sure to include all of the details we wanted. Not to mention, our photos are INCREDIBLE!! I can’t wait to get them printed ASAP.

"It took us a long time to find the perfect photographer to capture our wedding day, until we came across Leah’s page and never looked back."

The Eastmans

We were already sure of her and super excited after our engagement shoot with her, but after receiving our wedding photos, she blew us away! Our photos are absolutely perfect, and I feel like I'm reliving my wedding every time I look at them.

"Could not be happier choosing Leah as our wedding photographer. "

The Hansel’s 

We had her do our wedding photos and our maternity photos, and every time they are absolutely outstanding! I would highly recommend hiring her the next time you are looking into getting pictures done because she is the best! She is now our photographer for life!

"I love Leah's work so much! She does a phenomenal job of capturing your perfect moments! "

Leah was nothing short of amazing for both our engagement and wedding pictures! We have a one-year-old, and she was hopping around and doing everything she could to get him to smile—and it worked!! We are in love with all of our pictures! She took the time to answer all of our questions, set up a timeline, and was so fun and supportive on the day of our wedding! 

The Chappell’s

"We recommend her to anyone and everyone for wedding pictures or any pictures you may need to get done!"

 She’s very down-to-earth! It was so easy letting her capture our maternity pics—it felt like I had known her for years. If you book a session with her, you won’t regret it!

The Ziegler’s

" Leah is absolutely AMAZING! If you’re looking for a photographer in northwest MI/Traverse City area, she’s your girl! "

I used her for my first boudoir shoot post-birth, and she made me feel nothing less than beautiful. Then again, for a surprise shoot for my friend, and I was later surprised with a birthday shoot, which was beyond fun. I also used her for a last-minute family photoshoot as a surprise for my nieces while I only had them for a few more hours. Not only did she squeeze us in, but she also made it so relaxing, fun, and natural. Lastly, we did a best friend’s shoot, and she was amazing at capturing real-time memories and smiles.

Courtney Oakley

"She had a way of making everyone feel comfortable no matter the situation...I’m beyond impressed with my photos and the entire experience."

We were coming into town for vacation, and I reached out to Leah last minute to see if she was available for a family session! She was very, very accommodating and very personable in her messaging! The day of the session was just as great! She made a spot very close to us work and had to work hard to get our 1.5-year-old to cooperate! She took her time and was amazing with us!

The Anders

"The photos are just as AMAZING! We love them! We’ll definitely see her again when we’re back in Michigan!"

Leah is sweet, friendly, and easy to work with! She is very organized, and it is clear when working with her that photography is her passion. She is patient and kind when working with you to create the best shots. I enjoy looking back on my engagement and wedding photos. After our wedding, Leah even sent us a canvas print of one of our wedding pictures. I highly recommend Leah as your photographer; you will not be disappointed!

The Rushlaus

"I am very thankful that Leah was our photographer! The pictures are absolutely beautiful."

more about leah

As a Traverse City photographer, I’m lucky to spend my days capturing love and family in some of the most meaningful places—by the lake, in the backyard where your babies take their first steps, and beyond. More than just creating beautiful images, I want this to feel effortless and real, so when you look back, you don’t just see the moment—you feel it all over again.

get to know leah