We live in such a beautiful area in Michigan! We have beautiful lush greenery, and of course GORGEOUS beaches! I love to photograph high school seniors on our stunning lakeshore. There are a multitude of beaches along our great lakes. Being that Kari Douma Photography is based out of the Grand Rapids area, we typically head to Lake Michigan when photographing at the beach. We are so fortunate to have such amazing sunsets on our side of the state. One of my favorite beaches to photograph seniors at is Holland State Park. Let me show you why I like it so much!
One of the first things I look for when choosing a location for senior pictures is public access. (Unless the client has me photograph them on their private property.) I never trespass for senior pictures, and since Holland State Park has public access, it definitely meets criteria number one.
The next thing I look for when choosing a location for senior pictures is parking close to where we need to be. There are other state parks, and public beaches along lake Michigan, but not all of them have easy access to parking. Unless it is a holiday or holiday weekend, parking is fairly easy at Holland State Park.
One of the most important things I look for when choosing locations, is VARIETY. Holland State Park definitely meets that criteria! I have found more variety there, then at other public lakeshore locations. It is more than just sand and water. There are great dunes and dune grasses, trees, and some fallen logs that are close to the pavilion. I have even used the pavilion doors as a background! Then, we can move over the the channel that connects to Lake Macatawa. There is a GREAT railing, and the infamous “Big Red” Holland Harbor light house. That makes for some great backdrops. The rocks by the pier are perfect for posing, and then we can grab some great sunset shots at the end of the session.
The best time of day to photograph seniors at the beach is the last hour of the day before sunset. Weather you want to include the sunset in your pictures or not, the light is much softer and more flattering that time of day. My second choice for time of day to take pictures at Holland State Park would be the first hour of the day after sunrise. But, for some reason I can’t get many high school seniors to agree to this time of day! LOL (And the parking lot is not opened that early!)
Are you wondering what to wear for your senior pictures at Holland State Park? The best option is to keep it simple. Solid color shirts/tops/dresses work best. Jeans or plain khakis/shorts/skirts are a great choice. Think simple and classic. That way the focus is all on you. You can always check out our article on What to Wear for your Senior Pictures for more suggestions.
Are you ready to book your senior pictures at Holland State Park with Kari Douma Photography? Click the button below to get the conversation started!
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