Downtown Grand Rapids is one of my favorite places to photograph high school seniors.  We have such a fun downtown city that is continually growing. It always has this exciting vibe about it!  There are so many reasons why Grand Rapids would be a great place for your senior session!  If you're not sure what type of location you want for your senior pictures, you can check out our article about "Choosing a Location for Senior Pictures".   

Photographing seniors in Grand Rapids gives variety

Downtown Grand Rapids has great variety!  From sleek and modern, to urban and rustic there are a lot of looks to incorporate.  Options range from the city scape along the Grand River, to the new modern architecture, to old century brick and doors. It is even a great place to find some one of a kind things.  During events, there are different art pieces or displays that are temporary that make great backdrops for your senior pictures.  Because there is so much variety, this is a great option for anyone!

There is a lot within a short walking distance  

There is so much within a short walking distance in downtown Grand Rapids. After our consultation to find out the look you are going for, we decide where to meet.  We can park the car, and get out and walk.  There are so many options within a mile of where we park.  We get out of the car, and make the rounds.  We can head back to the car to grab a different outfit or prop, then continue on.  There is no need to keep moving and re-parking the car.  

Lighting is great most of the day

The buildings in Grand Rapids make for great lighting at almost all times of day.  When shooting outside, I try to avoid direct bright sunlight.  The tall buildings provide a great open shade area all morning, and mid-afternoon through evening.  It makes it easier to fit a session in the time of day that works for you.  We can even schedule a night lights session!  I’ll talk more about that below.

It’s a public place

When photographing seniors outdoors, I always look for public areas to photograph in, unless the senior has access to private property.  The sidewalks are public area in Grand Rapids, so that makes it easy!  We won’t be trespassing, we won’t need to purchase any permits, and we won’t need to get permission ahead of time to go.  

Grand Rapids is still fairly easy to get to

A lot of big cities are wall to wall traffic, making it difficult to maneuver or find parking.  Grand Rapids is a great city that has easy parking options at a reasonable cost.  Traffic isn’t too bad even during rush hour.  I am very familiar with parking options downtown.  When you schedule a session with me and if you are unsure where to park, I can help direct you to where would be a good place.  

Nighttime options are available and fun

Another fun option to think about for senior pictures in downtown Grand Rapids is a night time session.  Grand Rapids city scape has great lights that are fun to incorporate into your session.  This gives you a different look!  It is a way to set yourself apart from others.