The Rowans’ Elk Rapids Family & Newborn Session at Dam Beach
Some sessions stay with you long after the photos are delivered, and this one is absolutely that.
Cheleana is not only an incredibly talented photographer, but also one of my closest friends. Getting to document her beautiful family means more to me than I can put into words. Being trusted with moments like these—especially for the people closest to me—is something I’ll always hold dear.
I first met Cheleana over four years ago, when she was pregnant with her first baby. Since then, I’ve watched her family grow, and now she and her husband are raising two sweet little boys. Documenting these seasons of life for them has been such a gift.
A Sentimental Location in Elk Rapids
We chose Dam Beach in Elk Rapids for their family and newborn session, a place that’s deeply meaningful to me. I grew up running around Elk Rapids and spending summers at this very beach, so every session here feels personal in the best way.
Beyond the sentiment, Dam Beach offers so much variety. There’s lush greenery, rustic wooden fencing, sandy shoreline, and shaded areas that allow sessions to start earlier—perfect for families with young kids and early bedtimes. It’s one of those locations that truly works for every stage of family life.
A Relaxed, Real Family Session
This session felt easy and unhurried, which is exactly how I want family photos to feel. There was space for snuggles, for movement, and for simply letting the boys be themselves. Those in-between moments—the laughter, the quiet pauses, the way parents naturally settle in with their kids—are always my favorite to capture.
Sessions like this remind me why I love family photography so much. It’s not about perfection. It’s about connection, presence, and preserving the fleeting seasons that pass far too quickly.
Ending the Evening the Elk Rapids Way
One of my favorite things about sessions in Elk Rapids is how they naturally turn into a full family evening. After photos, it’s easy to head downtown for ice cream at Peddlers or grab pizza at Chef Chuck’s. It’s such a simple, joyful way to end a summer night together.
Cheleana, thank you for trusting me to document your sweet family. Your friendship means the world to me, and I’ll always cherish these moments we get to capture together.
Ready to Document Your Family?
If you’re dreaming of an Elk Rapids family session or a relaxed Northern Michigan newborn experience, I’d love to help you capture this season in a way that feels natural, meaningful, and true to your family.
You can reach out here to inquire and start planning your session.
If you loved this sweet family session, you can see another favorite—the Ziegler family’s spring cherry blossom session in Northern Michigan—right here.
If you’re hoping to document your own family in a way that feels natural, connected, and true to this season of life, I’d love to photograph that for you. You can reach out here to inquire about a session.