Blog | Mezzaninehttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/2024-03-29T12:10:19+00:00BlogBlack and Cream Studio Bridal Portrait Editorial in a Lace Wedding Dress2020-08-15T22:19:47+00:002024-03-29T01:21:40+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/black-and-cream-studio-bridal-portrait-editorial-in-a-lace-wedding-dress/<h2>About the Split Toned Studio Bridal Portrait Editorial</h2>
<p>So much of my studio bridal portrait work has been about deconstructing, stripping down the process and making simple and beautiful works. When I photograph outdoors, so much of the emphasis is on chasing beautiful sunsets or the next picture perfect location. When I'm in studio, I have the opportunity to create breathtaking photographs without the distractions and without the complications. I typically shoot on clean paper backdrops, centering my work around a few specific colors. I'd worked with the model, Emily Jo, before and knew she had a very defined, jet black hair cut and wanted to come up with a way to accentuate that and create added shape and contrast. I started with my tan Savage Seamless backdrop and crossed it with my black Savage Seamless backdrop for a split toned effect. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc studio bridal portrait with black and cream savage universal backdrop and lace claire pettibone dress" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/cream-black-pettibone-bridal/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portraits-editorial-fashion-00007_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>In post, I decided to increase the contrast and crush deepen the shadows so that the model's hair seemed to disappear into the shadows of the black portion of the backdrop. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc studio bridal portrait on black and cream seamless paper backdrop and cream lace wedding dress from claire pettibone" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/cream-black-pettibone-bridal/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portraits-editorial-fashion-00003_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Why I Love Studio Bridal Portraiture</h2>
<p>Brides are timeless and so is studio portrait work. In my Charleston SC Portrait Studio, I focus on creating works that are simple but look like no one else's bridal or wedding portraiture. It's a fun challenge and gives me the opportunity to really focus on the subject and their story. Below are a few more links to studio bridal portrait blog posts from my Charleston Photography studio and my Traverse City Photography studio. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/why-studio-bridal-portraits-will-never-go-out-of-style/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/why-studio-bridal-portraits-will-never-go-out-of-style/">Why Studio Bridal Portraits Will Never Go Out of Style</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/charleston-sc-film-bridal-portraits-in-studio-with-bold-olive-green-florals/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/charleston-sc-film-bridal-portraits-in-studio-with-bold-olive-green-florals/">Olive Green Backdrop and Studio Bridal Portraiture on Film</a></span></p>
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<p><img alt="studio bridal portrait in charleston sc by wedding photographer brian d smith with claire pettibone dress" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/cream-black-pettibone-bridal/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portraits-editorial-fashion-00030_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>About The Cream Lace Wedding Dress by Claire Pettibone</h2>
<p>I've long been a fan of Claire Pettibone's work. I've had a few opportunities recently to use her dresses for editorials and I've fallen in love with each and every one. There's just something special about them. There's thoughtful details and fabrics that you won't find in traditional wedding dress boutiques. They are artful and progressive, yet so timeless. This dress is a textured cream fabric with lace trimmings, details and my favorite feature...sleeves. The gown has lace beadwork adorning the back and running along the dress seam with a matching cream lace belt that ties at the waist. </p>
<p><img alt="lace wedding dress back in cream by claire pettibone photographed in studio by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/cream-black-pettibone-bridal/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portraits-editorial-fashion-00024_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>This editorial was shot on digital, but stay tuned for the film photographs where I experimented with developing my own film and shooting multiple exposures. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal portrait in studio by charleston portrait and wedding photographer brian d smith with black and cream color" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/studio/cream-black-pettibone-bridal/2006-charleston-studio-bridal-portraits-editorial-fashion-00018_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Studio Portrait Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/studio-portraits/">Brian D Smith Photography Studio Portrait Portfolio and Information</a></span></p>
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<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the portrait photography studio<span> </span>services I offer. I have poratrait studio locations in Charleston SC and Traverse City Michigan. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in<span> </span>portrait<span> </span>photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and tell your story through intentional and creative portraiture. I photograph Branding Portraits, Bridal and Wedding Portraits, Heirloom Portraits, Boudoir, and Creative / Editorial Portraiture and Fashion in studio. I celebrate all<span> </span>people, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Studio Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>5 Days and a Tour of Michigan's Best Wedding Venues2020-07-29T16:45:39+00:002024-03-29T04:29:14+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/5-days-and-a-tour-of-michigans-best-wedding-venues/<h2><span>About the Michigan Wedding Venue Tour Project</span></h2>
<p><span>This project started as a simple idea to connect. I've spent my entire life visiting Northern Michigan in the Summer but never established any connections in the industry that now has become my life and allows me the flexibility to spend my Summer amongst the beauty of the Michigan landscape. I connected with Emily from Connolly House Events on Instagram. What started out as an attempt to connect with wedding planners in Michigan turned into a personal bonding over fashion and a genuine desire to elevate the style of the wedding industry. I felt that Emily and I both had the desire to do things a bit differently. We loved the traditions of marriage and weddings, but sprinkled with a touch of Vogue. We adore the quiet Michigan landscape, but with a pinch of NYC energy. </span></p>
<p><span><br/>Something I have learned in my early career as a wedding photographer is that the industry functions in teams. Being the best individual often requires the best team. Thus, the idea to engage with Michigan's Best Wedding Venues was born. Thousands of "best wedding venue" blog posts already exist, so in Emily and I's genuine and true fashion we set out to do it differently. We spent 5 days road tripping around the entire state visiting the best wedding venues in West Michigan, Grand Rapids, Metro Detroit, and Northern Michigan. We visited venues, explored cities, crashed with friends and family and ate good food...all fueled by the best coffee you can find. </span></p>
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<p>When you are done reading through the best of what Michigan has to offer for nature wedding venues, city wedding venues, modern wedding venues, and historic wedding venues, please check out Emily and I's websites and be sure to give us a follow on Instagram! If you'd like to chat, please call or email either of us and I'm sure we can convince you of just how passionate we are about what we do and why it makes us the best in Michigan's Wedding Industry.</p>
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<h3>About The Michigan Wedding Photographer and Wedding Planner</h3>
<p>I spend my Summers in Northern Michigan, and whenever I have weddings scheduled throughout the year, and Emily lives year round in Grand Rapids. She also grew up in Metro-Detroit. So, between her and I, we have the entire state covered and have a deep, personal connection to the entire Michigan landscape. Emily and I are great as individuals but, if you are planning your wedding, I highly encouarge you to speak with the two of us and we can echo our shared vision of what we find inspiring about the wedding industry and how we strive to push it forward into a fashionable future. </p>
<p><img alt="best michigan wedding photographer and wedding planner on kodak film brian d smith photography connolly house events" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2004-william-aiken-self-portraits-on-kodak-portra-800-film-and-zeiss-tlr-00002_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h4>For More Information About Each of Our Michigan Wedding Businesses Check Out Our Websites</h4>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weddings/michigan-weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/weddings/michigan-weddings/">Brian D Smith Photography - Michigan Wedding Photographer</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/">Connolly House Events - Michigan Wedding Planner</a></span></p>
<h4>Likewise Connect with Us and Follow Us On Instagram</h4>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">Brian D Smith Photography On Instagram</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/connollyhouseevents/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/connollyhouseevents/">Connolly House Events on Instagram</a></span></p>
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<h2><span></span>Michigan's Best Wedding Venues</h2>
<p><img alt="michigan's best wedding venues by brian d smith photography on a tour of best ceremony and reception wedding locations in detroit, west michigan and northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-36_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>I'd like to start out by saying that this list isn't necessarily all inclusive. Some venues we reached out to were either not open or unable to accomodate because of covid restrictions and resulting staff shortages. So, if you'd like to be on the list but are currently not, please reach out because we would love to speak with you! This project was largely about making connections with the people who run and are passionate about the wedding venues, but we also wanted to highlight our favorite details and vignettes that make each such a desireable place for your Michigan Wedding. </p>
<h3>Best West Michigan Wedding Venues</h3>
<p><span>Our Journey started in West Michigan, the home of Emily's wedding planning business and a wonderful mixture of hip, historic and countryside wedding venues. </span></p>
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<h4>FELT MANSION</h4>
<p>Felt Mansion is located just north of Saugatuk Michigan and is one of West Michigan's most historic and cherished wedding venues. Felt Mansion comprises the sprawling estate and residence of Dorr E. Felt, a self made millionaire who inveted the comptometer - think early calculator. Dorr E. Felt passed away, along with his wife, shortly after the homes completion in 1928. It remained in the family until WWII when it exchanged hands a few times serving as a home for Catholic Nuns and an office for the State Police. It was sold, by the state, to Laketown Township in the early 1990s under the stipulation that it be used as a public historic site. Today, Felt Mansion operates as a wedding venue to fund the costs of upkeep and preserving the beautiful history of this Western Michigan Estate. </p>
<p><img alt="felt mansion west michigan best wedding venue by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-33_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Felt Mansion's exterior is a lovely faded brick with towering stone columns that surround it's entryway. Greenery adorned arches offer a glimpse into a tiny breakfast nook patio that is a perfect cocktail hour bar location for your outdoor Michigan Wedding. </p>
<p><img alt="michigan wedding venue felt mansion brick home exterior in Sagautuk " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-37_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The venue features a permanent, conrete floor reception tent and patio so you never have to worry about adding a tent option. Not to mention it extends right out into a state park and sprawling grass field where guests can mingle at cocktail hour and the couple can take some dynamite sunset wedding portraits. </p>
<p><img alt="wedding venue felt mansion back patio and wedding reception tent in west michigan by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-38_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>CEREMONY LOCATIONS</h5>
<p>Felt Mansion features two primary wedding ceremony locations. The first, and the one that I find the most unique, is a circular reflection pool with a long stone walkway leading to a central fountain. It is surrounded by lush greenery. It's a really wonderful option if you are hiring a film photographer, as the light reflects quite intensely off of the stone pathway. Film handles highlights so beautifully. Plus, can you imagine walking down this walkway in your dress?</p>
<p><img alt="michigan wedding venue outdoor ceremony location at felt mansion with circular fountain " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-31_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The second ceremony location is in front of this adorable white chapel at the back of the property and butting up to the state park. Honestly, you can't go wrong with either location. Imagine walking down that long stretch of as guests turn around to see your wedding dress in all of it's glory! It's pretty rare that a wedding venue offers two distinct outdoor ceremony location and the property's size certainly makes it a rare find as a Western Michigan Wedding Venue. </p>
<p><img alt="outdoor wedding ceremony in front of white chapel at west michigan wedding venue Felt Mansion" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-42_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>INTERIOR</h5>
<p>The interior of Felt Mansion is certainly something that makes it wonderfully unique. The township did such a wonderful job preserving the original character and architecture of the estate. It features period correct murals, meant to replicate the originals found in the home, and wood craftsmanship and trimmings worthy of magazines. I spend my time in a 1960s wood cabin in Northern Michigan when I stay here during the summer so I am always partial to dark wood interiors. Guests will love touring the home and aweing at its history. </p>
<p><img alt="felt mansion interior featuring historic wood and vintage murals in western michigan for wedding ceremony and receptions" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>It features one of the best groomsmen getting ready locations I've seen in a wedding venue yet - a vintage book lined library. </p>
<p><img alt="historic library in western michigan wedding venue groomsmen getting ready location by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-30_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>This wedding venue has enough vintage touches to make the hippest of couples feel at home. Guests can stay in the home's historic rooms. It's funny to look back on the cycles of traditions. If I had to style a home today, I would do it just like this one. </p>
<p><img alt="west michigan wedding venue interior at felt mansion with vintage chairs and woodwork" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-12_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>It features an alternate, indoor reception area on the top floor of the property with a beautiful, curved plaster ceiling. </p>
<p><img alt="alternate indoor wedding ceremony location at west michigan wedding venue felt mansion" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-18_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Admiring quirky wallpaper and vintage mirrors quickly led to a tour long trend of taking selfie's in the wedding venue mirrors. Please please tell me where I can buy that wallpaper (hint...you can't).</p>
<p><img alt="west michigan wedding venue interior wall paper and self portrait by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-25_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The bridal suite at Felt Mansion was far and away my favorite room in the house. It had plenty of natural light, which is a wedding photographer's dream, and tons of vintage furniture for your interior bridal portraits. Honestly, it is probably my favorite bridal suite I've seen at any wedding venue and one of the reasons Felt Mansion would be at the top of my list for best michigan wedding venues. </p>
<p><img alt="west michigan wedding venue felt mansion bridal suite by wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-6_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Last but not least...a touch that probably won't be reflected in your wedding day photos too much, but something I always admire - a good vintage bathroom. I adore vintage tilework andd the bathrooms at Felt Mansion certainly do it well. I'd love to shoot some bridal prep boudoir in these bathrooms. This project really opened my eyes to appreciating the little details of Michigan Wedding Venues and thinking outside my ever expanding creative box for portrait locations and storytelling opportunities. </p>
<p><img alt="vintage blue bathroom tile at felt mansion west michigan wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-a-felt-mansion-grand-rapids-west-michigan-wedding-venue-best-brian-d-smith-3_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFO ABOUT WEST MICHIGAN WEDDING VENUE FELT MANSION</h5>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.feltmansion.org/wedding-receptions/" target="_blank" title="https://www.feltmansion.org/wedding-receptions/">Click here for more information about Michigan weddings at Felt Mansion</a></span></p>
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<h4>GRAND RAPIDS ACCOMODATION</h4>
<p>Emily was gracious enough to host me in her own home during the first two nights of the trip. It was a real step up from the intended sleeping spot of my 4runner, and it was a great opportunity to have someone show me the charming uptown areas of Grand Rapids. </p>
<p>Backpacking through Europe has made me excellent at packing light and living minimally. I packed a small backpack of clothes andn my favorite film camera gear!</p>
<p><img alt="super 8 and film camera gear of brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-grand-rapids-brian-d-smith-3_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Of course I brought along my favorite Austrian hat (A country that Emily and I both bonded over) and had time for my classic mirror self portrait. </p>
<p><img alt="self portrait on fuji x100v by brian d smith photography in circular target mirror" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-grand-rapids-brian-d-smith-6_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>We stopped by the perfect Covid friendly coffee shop/van as we departed early for Greencrest Manor. Outside coffee company in Uptown Grand Rapids did not disappoint and is certainly a spot I'll go back and hang at again. </p>
<p><img alt="outside coffee co camper van coffee cart in uptown grand rapids" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-grand-rapids-brian-d-smith-10_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h4>GREENCREST MANOR</h4>
<p>Greencrest manor is a Bed and Breakfast and Western Michigan Wedding Venue located in Battle Creek. Greencrest is Michigan's best European style wedding venue, and I'd argue one of the best in the country. It's truly a gem, located deep within the trees down a narrow road in a Western Michigan farm town. I've had my eye on Greencrest Manor for a long time, in large because of my love for European styling and architecture. It isn't something easy to find in any United States wedding venue. Greencrest was built as an estate for an early 1900s lumber baron. It was later transfered to the Catholic church and served as a seminary before exchanging hands with a few private owners. Today, the estate is owned and run by Jenn and David Ederer. I prefer to let the exquisit french architecture of this west michigan wedding venue do most of the talking, but I'd be remissed if I didn't mention a few words about Jenn. Jenn owns, operates, and tends to this property as a passion project - not just as a wedding venue or bed and breakfast. When we visited, she was tirelessly tending to the gardens with the heart and care of someone whom the littlest detail is a reflection of their own personal vision. When you stay at Greencrest, you are staying at someone's home. You are staying in a place built to inspire, to relax and to comfort. You are transported to a french countryside in the middle of West Michigan, where Jenn is your tourguide, curator, and hostess. You have to see the property to truly appreciate it, but I hope my pictures come close or inspire you to visit yourself. I could make magic hear as a Michigan wedding photographer, and I hope you see it's potential too. </p>
<p><img alt="greencrest manor by film wedding photographer brian d smith in western michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The ivy walls on the front of the home's facade are certainly the showstopper, but when you inspect the home in further detail you see just how much attention to detail goes into every inch of this west michigan wedding venue property. Can you imagine your wedding day portraits in front of this facade?</p>
<p><img alt="french architecture at european styled wedding venue greencrest manor in battle creek michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-2_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>If my images don't convince you enough just how much I loved every detail of this property, please reach out and I'd love to tell you just how breathtaking a michigan wedding would look catpured on this property, all on film. </p>
<p><img alt="film wedding photographer brian d smith captures west michigan wedding venue greencrest manor" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-3_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>GARDENS</h5>
<p>Making your way around to the back of the property reveals sprawling gardens, with the quaint and cozy feel of the french countryside. Archways and stone staircases guide you through the properties numerous, lush gardens. </p>
<p><img alt="greencrest manor gardens and wedding reception venue in western michigan by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-21_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The opportunities for wedding day portraits at this michigan wedding venue truly make it one of the most desirable in the state, if not the entire country. </p>
<p><img alt="european wedding venue greencrest manor gardens by film wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-10_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="european flower garden at united states wedding venue greencrest manor by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-14_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="european wedding venue in the united states by film wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-9_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>EUROPEAN INTERIOR</h5>
<p>Greencrest Manor's interior is just as well thought out and styled as the home's exterior. Every inch of the property is pure character and reflective of old world french styling and architecture. Wedding guests can stay in one of the manor's numerous, uniquely styled rooms, making it the perfect weekend getaway wedding venue for you, your bridal party and entire family. </p>
<p><img alt="greencrest manor wedding venue interior in battle creek michigan by film wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-41_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="greencrest manor bed and breakfast and wedding venue bedrooms in western michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-34_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The interior is spacious, yet cozy. I felt like I could live there after only having been inside for a few minutes. Its inspiring, yet inviting. Your guests will love your wedding day exerience just as much as you will. </p>
<p><img alt="french architecture and paintings on the teal walls of greencrest manor wedding venue in west michigan by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-36_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Light and textures, everywhere. </p>
<p><img alt="light and textures of greencrest manor interior in west michigan by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-55_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The sun room / breakfast room to the left when you first walk in the property is a large and inviting room where you and your closest friends and family can gather during your wedding weekend getaway in west Michigan. </p>
<p><img alt="sun room and breakfast room at western michigan wedding venue and bed and breakfast greencrest manor" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-48_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Every fabric, every texture is curated to be true to the original french inspiration of the manor. </p>
<p><img alt="vintage floral textures and fabrics at european wedding venue greencrest manor" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-58_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>This pink themed room was my personal favorite. </p>
<p><img alt="bed and breakfast with french styling in battle creek michigan by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-62_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>THE BRIDAL SUITE</h5>
<p>Once again, a west michigan wedding venue nails the bridal suite. Lighting and space is everything in a bridal suite and this room at Greencrest Manor had plenty of it. The textures and colors complemented the bright and spacious feel of the bride getting ready suite. Your entire bridal party can fit in the room and the light allows for those joyous bridesmaids getting ready photos that you've been dreaming of. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal suite at west michigan wedding venue greencrest manor by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-67_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>PREP KITCHEN</h5>
<p>Another important detail that makes this a great weekend getaway wedding venue is the spacious prep kitchen / functioning guest kitchen. Your guests can prepare their own meals in the comfort of european styling without ever leaving the manor. The venue even provides a stocked bar service!</p>
<p><img alt="prep kitchen at european wedding venue in battle creek michigan greencrest manor" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-42_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Last but not least, the original architectural prints complementing the modern day photograph of it's preserved exterior. These are the small touches that make this Michigan wedding venue truly one of it's best, if not best in the entire country. </p>
<p><img alt="architectural drawings of best michigan wedding venue greencrest manor in west michigan by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-b-greencrest-manor-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-2_web-1.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFO ABOUT EUROPEAN STYLED WEST MICHIGAN WEDDING VENUE GREENCREST MANOR</h5>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://greencrestmanor.com/" target="_blank" title="https://greencrestmanor.com/">Click here for more information about Greencrest Manor</a></span></p>
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<h4>VENUE3TWO</h4>
<p>Located in Grand Rapids, Venue3Two has a unique history and mission behind it's existence as a west Michigan wedding venue. What started as a ranch, was purchased in 2016 and turned into an Equine Therapy Center. The venue uses horses, in a non-riding atmosphere, to comfort and assist underpriveledged families, communities and victims of sex trafficing. The wedding business supports the property and the non profit 3TwoRanch that facilitates the program. Venues like this have been one of my most surprising realizations of my tour of the best Michigan wedding venues. So many of the venues have a mission behind them. Wedding are expensive. We all know this. If you are going to invest so much money in an event, I love the idea of that money going towards a charitable and noble cause. </p>
<p><img alt="venue3two exterior of grand rapids wedding venue by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The stone architecure or Venue3Two seamlessly blends classical manor faceade with modern touches that the venue's brand is known for (check out the copper roof). </p>
<p><img alt="best grand rapids wedding venue exterior venue3two" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-3_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>CEREMONY LOCATION</h5>
<p>The ceremony location is positioned at the back of the property, offering two views. Front facing you have a view of the wedding venue's beautiful architecture, and rear facing you have a view of Michigan nature. You can't go wrong either way and I think it is a wonderful option to have for brides to choose their ceremony view. </p>
<p><img alt="venue3two wedding venue outdoor ceremony location in grand rapids michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-6_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>INTERIOR</h5>
<p>Venue3Two's interior is beautifully, minimalist styled with plenty of light. Windows are everywhere and it is one of the first things I noticed about the venue when I entered the interior. I also quite liked the earth toned contrast between the dark woods, cream walls, and gold features/lighting. </p>
<p><img alt="venue3two michigan wedding reception interior by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-10_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="west michigan wedding venue interior in grand rapids with large windows by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-27_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>Receptions are held in the Conservatory - the most recent addition to the property. It's spacious and well lit and even has a grand piano on location for bands to use! It's a clean, blank canvas of a location to craft a reception and offers large window views to keep you connected to Michigan's nature. </p>
<p><img alt="indoor reception wedding venue in west michigan venue3two by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-9_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>BRIDAL PREP AND GROOM GETTING READY ROOMS</h5>
<p>Venue3Two offers a large bridal prep room, indcluding a smaller attached staging room, and a groom getting ready room equipped with comfortable furniture and fantastic light! Again...I can't stress just how critical good light is for wedding day getting ready photographs. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal prep room at west michigan wedding venue venue3two by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-24_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Attached prep rooms and groom getting ready suite.</p>
<p><img alt="groom getting ready room at venue3two in grand rapids michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-20_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The venue even includes a cozy bridal prep hair/makeup studio! That way your entire wedding day can be completed start to finish in one location. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal prep salon at venue3two in western michigan wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-31_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="venue3two wedding venue interior and self portrait by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-23_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>PREP KITCHEN</h5>
<p>One of the showstoppers for this Grand Rapids wedding venue is its massive and well lit kitchen. It serves as a cocktail hour location, staging area for food services and a great option for a desert bar later in the evening. I want to live in this massive kitchen!</p>
<p><img alt="prep kitchen at venue3two in grand rapids with seafoam green island" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-c-venue3two-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-16_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h5>MORE INFO ABOUT GRAND RAPIDS WEDDING VENUE VENUE3TWO</h5>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.venue3two.com/the-venue" target="_blank" title="https://www.venue3two.com/the-venue">Click here for more information about Venue3Two</a></span></p>
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<h4>HOLLAND MICHIGAN AND DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS</h4>
<p>I had an opportunity to explore downtown Holland on my own before Emily and I reconveined for a burger pick-me-up in downtown Grand Rapids, before heading on to our next destination. </p>
<p><img alt="holland michigan downtown photographs by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-holland-brian-d-smith-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="downtown grand rapids best hamburger by michigan photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-grand-rapids-brian-d-smith_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<h3>Ann Arbor's Best Wedding Venues</h3>
<p>Ann Arbor was the bridge between our western michigan venue tour and detroit. We stopped in Ann Arbor for a quick exploration of downtown before heading to one of the more unique, destination event and wedding venues in all of Michigan.</p>
<p></p>
<h4>ZINGERMAN CORNMAN'S FARM</h4>
<p>Zingerman is another example of a well-intentioned wedding venue. It pitches itself as a wedding venue and culinary destination and it certainly backs up it's claims. The venue states that the culinary experience is the heart of the venue. I absolutely adore this. It puts intention behind the event and makes the space so much more than a blank space for a wedding venue. The venue becomes such an integral part of the experience. Food is a wonderful conversation starter and such a strong unifier in any culture, and I can't imagine a better focal point for the reception atmoshphere of a wedding than some tastefully curated, chef prepared cuisine. Chef Kieron Hales grew up working in Michelin Star restaurants in England bringing family recipes and heritage to central Michigan along with a farm to table mentality that can be experienced and view through the wedding venue's fruitful gardens. I typically lead these blog posts with an image of the venue facade, but thought it fit for this Ann Arbor Wedding Venue to lead with the gardens that produe so much of the flavors that make this place so special. </p>
<p><img alt="zingerman cornman's farm culinary focused wedding venue and sustainable gardens in Ann Arbor michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-43_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The exterior of the building is inviting as any farm house should be. </p>
<p><img alt="zingerman cornman farm wedding venue exterior and sign in ann arbor michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-15_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>You are greeted at the front entrance by fresh herbs and local craftsmandship and I can't think of a better way to set the tone for your wedding experience at this farmhouse venue. </p>
<p><img alt="herbs growing outside of farm to table wedding venue zingerman cornman's farm in ann arbor michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-25_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Since I started my photography career, I have fallen in love with the barn/farm aesthetic. Its something I didn't know I missed until I left my childhood home of Ohio. I spend the cooler months in Charleston, SC before returning north to spend my summer in Michigan and everytime I make that drive I fall in love with red barns and golden grass fields all over again. </p>
<p><img alt="red farm houses at zingerman cornman's farm by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-29_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="best ann arbor wedding venue zingerman cornman's farm exterior and outdoor ceremony space" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-33_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>CEREMONY LOCATION</h5>
<p>The ceremony location is situated at the front of the house where the front porch greets in traditional farmhouse comforst. Plenty of shade is offered from nearby trees and distant fields of golden grass and red farmhouses make this a rustic, yet authentically comfortable backdrop for your wedding ceremony. It makes you want to get married here then just have a sit in the rockers and listen to the sounds of nature. </p>
<p><img alt="outdoor michigan wedding ceremony location at zingerman cornman's farm outside ann arbor by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="golden grass fields in central michigan at wedding venue zingerman cornman's farm" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>INTERIOR</h5>
<p>The interior stays true to the warm, farmhouse aesthetic of the Central Michigan wedding venue's exterior. My favorite feature of the house was this cozy, intimate dinner room perfect for family celebrations, rehearsal dinner's and micro-weddings and elopements. </p>
<p><img alt="zingerman farmhouse table reception space in central ann arbor michigan by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-47_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Of course, it has a true chef's kitchen where guests can watch the magic happen. </p>
<p><img alt="zingerman cornman's farm kitchen at ann arbor wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-58_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>As always...self portraits and a matching hat</p>
<p><img alt="self portrait by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography at ann arbor wedding venue zingerman" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-51_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Upsairs features a bridal prep suite, catering to the truly all-inclusive nature of this intimate wedding venue. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal prep suite at zingerman cornman's farm in ann arbor michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-8_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>This mural in one of the upstairs rooms was a show stopper...I had to stop through twice to take photos of it's old world charm. </p>
<p><img alt="rustic european mural at michigan farm wedding venue zingerman cornman's farm" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-7_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>Receptions are held in the large barn. The barn retains the original structure with some modern finishings and upgrades to the faceade, prep kitchen and strucutre. The downstairs to the barn is used as a cocktail hour retreat while the upstairs is a rustic blank canvas to craft your dream wedding reception. Importantly, the venue features an elevator so it is accessible to the handicapped and elderly!</p>
<p><img alt="barn reception wedding venue in central michigan by wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-d-zingermans-cornman-farm-best-west-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-film-photography-11_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>MORE INFORMATION ON ANN ARBOR WEDDING VENUE ZINGERMAN CORNMAN'S FARM</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://zingermanscornmanfarms.com/weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://zingermanscornmanfarms.com/weddings/">Click here for more information about Zingerman's Cornman Farm</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Metro Detroit's Best Wedding Venues</h3>
<p>I've never been to detroit before. I've spoken with people that grew up there and they raved about the culture and the rich history. We all know recent narative surrounding Detroit and the poverty that has surrounded the crashing of the auto industry, but I was excited to see the city for myself and form my own unbiased opinion. I thrive on unique, stylish clients and weddings and I was excited for the Detroit wedding market as it could be the city to provide just that!</p>
<p></p>
<h4>DOWNTOWN DETROIT</h4>
<p>Detroit stood out to me for one reason...the architecture. Genuinely, it is some of the most beautiful architecture I have ever seen. The mid century styling and mixing of bronze metals and intricate stone work was awe-inspiring. I took more photographs here than any other city I visited. We only had the chance to tour the city, just long enough to grab coffee and do a quick lap, but it will be a destination I quickly return to...plenty of film in hand. </p>
<p><img alt="mad cap coffee detroit michigan by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-detroit-brian-d-smith-photography-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<p>The towering GM building was certainly a sign of more profitable times. Having seen the city in it's state of poverty, I would have love to have seen it during its heyday. Hopefully, moving forward it will regain its old glory...this time more inclusive to all of the cultures that make up its diverse population. </p>
<p><img alt="gm building in downtown detroit on kodak gold 200 35mm film by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-detroit-brian-d-smith-photography-4_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The city architecture is such a beautiful mix of warm earth tones and cool blue reflections from the windows and sky. </p>
<p><img alt="detroit michigan downtown street art alleyways on kodak gold 200 35mm film by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-best-michigan-wedding-venue-tour-downtown-detroit-brian-d-smith-photography-3_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h4>THE WAR MEMORIAL - GROSSE POINT</h4>
<p>The War Memorial was our first Detroit wedding venue stop, located in the afluent suburb of Metro Detroit - Grosse Point. The stone facade of the building welcomes you at the end of a long stretch of stone road, lined with trees and golden yellow florals. At the end is a roundabout with a Italian Renaissance style mansion that was constructed in 1910. Soon after the passing of the original owner, the home was donated as a community arts center and memorial to the Gross Pointe community that served in the world wars. It has remained in this state ever since, serving as a gathering place for ideas, arts, community and rememberance - yet another Michigan wedding venue that serves a greater purpose. It has remained a constant theme on this trip that these beautiful venues exist to celebrate something beyond marriage, using the revenue from weddings to further its charitable goals. I find this all quite romantic and love that these wedding venues in Michigan stand for something greater. </p>
<p><img alt="war memorial metro detroit wedding venue by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Yellow is my favorite color to photograph and I was instantly captivated by the landscaping welcoming you into the venue.</p>
<p><img alt="yellow flowers lining the entrance to detroit wedding venue the war memorial" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-6_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The architecture and the light shining through it...</p>
<p><img alt="best detroit wedding venue war memorial exterior shot by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-15_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>FRONT GARDENS</h5>
<p>My second favorite feature of this venue was the landscaping. The family hired a landscape architect to design the gardens while the house was being designed and it clearly shows. The gardens in the front of the house, shown below, offer so many portrait locations for your bride and groom portraits on your michigan wedding day. </p>
<p><img alt="landscaping at detroit wedding venue war memorial by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-12_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="war memorial gardens in metro detroit by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-10_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>OUTDOOR CEREMONY LOCATION AND REAR GARDENS</h5>
<p><img alt="rear of the war memorial detroit wedding venue reception area outdoors " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-53_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>If you love being on the water, then I truly can't imagine a more beautiful wedding venue. The back lawn serves as an outdoor ceremony location and cocktail hour for your detroit wedding. Being so close to the water was certainly a highlight of the War Memorial and made it quickly skyrocket to the top tier of my best Michigan wedding venues list. </p>
<p><img alt="waterfront wedding venue in metro detroit for outdoor ceremony and reception" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-55_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Just as much care and attention to detail went into the rear gardens and landscaping as did the front. It's a wonderful location for portraits and for guests to enoy themselves during cocktail hour. </p>
<p><img alt="rear gardens with pink and yellow flowers at detroit wedding venue in grosse point" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-62_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>It even has a cute balcony for some Romeo and Juliet inspired romantic gestures. </p>
<p><img alt="detroit wedding venue balcony at war memorial by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-71_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>INTERIOR</h5>
<p>The bridal suite at the War Memorial was well styled, and beautifully lit. It's a photographer's dream, with plenty of space for your bridal party and beatufiul furniture and styling to give you album worthy getting ready photos on your Michigan wedding day. The vintage chairs and matching curtains were a standout favorite of mine. </p>
<p><img alt="bridal suite at best metro detroit wedding venue the war memorial by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-22_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>The War Memorial features an indoors wedding reception venue that overlooks the water. It's quite spacious and can easily accomodate your 200-300 person wedding making it one of few venues in the metro-detroit wedding market that can accomodate this size. </p>
<p><img alt="metro detroit wedding reception venue indoors at war memorial in grosse point" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-51_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>LIBRARY AND WOODWORKING</h5>
<p>I am going to jump straight to my favorite feature/room of the wedding venue - the library. Looking at the photographs now, I am still in awe of the styling and lighting of this library. From the intage book lined shelves, to the brass clad ceiling tiles, to the inlaid wood details on the early century credenza - I was in awe everywhere I turned. If this venue didn't stand out as a favorite wedding venue in Michigan before, it certainly did now. I could take the most romantic and timeless bride and groom portraits in this room. If you are imaginging your dress draped across that herringbone wood floor with golden light reflecting off the woodwork just like I am, please get it touch and let's get to planning. </p>
<h5><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Metro Detroit Wedding Photographer - Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></h5>
<p><img alt="vintage books in library at best metro detroit wedding venue war memorial by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-30_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="selfie on fuji x100v in metro detroit wedding venue library war memorial" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-36_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The ceiling tiles will give you a sore neck. I was looking up for a significat portion of the wedding venue tour. </p>
<p><img alt="italian renaissance ceiling tiles at war memorial in metro detroit" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-46_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The art-deco and italian renaissance styled lighting fixtures and door accents were another personal favorite of both Emily and I. </p>
<p><img alt="italian renaissance light fixtures at metro detroit's best wedding venue the war memorial" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-47_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Window light is always the best light. </p>
<p><img alt="window lighting and wood window trim at the war memorial a detroit wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-41_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Since I can't live here...please, at least let me photograph your metro detroit wedding here. </p>
<p><img alt="wedding reception venue interior in metro detroit grosse point at the war memorial" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-29_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Last but not least was this naval inspired staging area / groomsmen getting ready area located in the lower level of the wedding venue property. It's a nice, cool spot for the groomsmen to relax while the bridal party is getting prepped on those hot summer michigan wedding weekends. </p>
<p><img alt="groomsmen getting ready area at the war memorial detroit's best wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-e-war-memorial-best-detroit-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-50_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The architecture in the War Memorial house, specifically the woodworking, and it's waterfront location made it a standout hit for the Michigan wedding venue market. It's easily one of the prettiest homes I've ever been in and the architecture provides a high-end, romantic feel for your wedding day portraiture. The gardens and landscaping was the other standout for the detroit wedding venue, featuring ample portrait spots all in close proximity. This is the photographer's dream.</p>
<h5>FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ONE OF METRO DETROIT'S BEST WEDDING VENUES PLEASE VISIT THEIR WEBSITE BELOW</h5>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.warmemorial.org/venue" target="_blank" title="https://www.warmemorial.org/venue">Click here for more information on the War Memorial in Grosse Point</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h4>MEADOWBROOK HALL</h4>
<p>Our second Metro Detroit wedding venue stop was Meadow Brook Hall in Rochester Hills. What first strikes you about Meadow Brook Hall is its sheer size. The home is one of the largest in the country, constructed between 1926 and 1929 by Matilda Dodge Wilson, originally for her late husband and Detroit auto industry pioneer, John Dodge. You enter the estate either from a large brick road with a small museum exhibit dedicated to early Dodge automobiles or by crossing a bridge and exiting into a roundabout at the home's grand entrance - my personal favorite entrance to the property. </p>
<p><img alt="front entrance to metro detroit wedding venue meadowbrook hall by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The alternate, rear entrance to the property provides a stunning glimpse into the stonework of the property's facade. </p>
<p><img alt="rear entrance and dodge museum at metro detroit's meadowbrook hall" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-19_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>CEREMONY LOCATION</h5>
<p>The ceremony location was my favorite view at this metro detroit wedding venue. It had plenty of space to accomodate 200-300+ guests and multiple directions for staging your ceremony depending on the view you wanted. Personally, I love the view of the home with the gardens on your left and the spacious lawn and treeline to the right. </p>
<p><img alt="meadow brook hall wedding ceremony location in metro detroit on green lawn" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The alternate perspective looks onto the a large stone wall and one of the wedding venue's lush gardens. The bride emerges from a large, vintage wooden door for a grand entrance to your Michigan wedding ceremony. </p>
<p><img alt="gardens and ceremony location for your metro detroit michigan wedding by brian d smith " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-4_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>GARDENS</h5>
<p>The majority of the estate's gardens are located dat the rear of the property and are cared for by an entirely volunteer staff. I loved that the community cared so much to keep this historic landmark operating and in beautiful condition that they would volunteer their time and efforts to tend the gardens. I think this is a very romantic sentiment to get married alongside. </p>
<p><img alt="best detroit michigan wedding venue meadow brook hall rear landscaping and gardens" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-20_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="metro detroit wedding venue gardens and greenery at meadow brook hall by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-28_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>WEDDING RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>One of the most appealing features of the property is a permanently installed tent, capable of seating all of your guests for your 300+ person Michigan wedding party. The tent's interior and ceiling are draped and the sides open up to reveal the property's gardens on those beautiful Michigan summer days. </p>
<p><img alt="permanent reception tent at detroit wedding venue meadow brook hall" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-14_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>WEDDING VENUE INTERIOR</h5>
<p>The interior serves, largely, as a museum to the original condition of the house and the Legacy of Matilda's design and the Dodge family name. Most locations are open for the guests to mingle and awe in the intense detail put into every inch of the house. Look at that ceiling work in the home's main corridor. </p>
<p><img alt="interior museum of dodge home in detroit michigan meadow brook hall" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-34_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The plaster ceiling in the main dining room was my favorite architectural detail in the entire home. Meadow Brook Hall even hosts dinners at the original dining table!</p>
<p><img alt="metro detroit wedding venue cocktail hour interior at dodge meadow brook hall" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-35_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The sun room / breakfast nook featured warmer styling and themes from Matilda's travels which are reflected in numerous other architectural elements throughout this Detroit Michigan wedding venue.</p>
<p><img alt="meadow brook hall spanish and asian themed sun room in detroit michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-36_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>What makes this estate one of Metro Detroit's best wedding venues, if not certainly one of the best in Michigan and perhaps the country is a simple vision. Imagine rolling up in a limousine or vintage car, circling the roundabout and exiting out dressed in your wedding dress to this grand exterior view. You'll be in awe, just as much as your guests. </p>
<p><img alt="exterior of one of the US largest homes meadow brook hall best detroit wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-f-detroit-michigan-best-wedding-venue-meadowbrook-hall-brian-d-smith-photography-41_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFORMATION ABOUT METRO DETROIT WEDDING VENUE MEADOW BROOK HALL</h5>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://meadowbrookhall.org/weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://meadowbrookhall.org/weddings/">Click here for more information about Michigan Wedding Venue Meadow Brook Hall</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h3>Best Northern Michigan Wedding Venues</h3>
<p>Northern Michigan is where I reside when I spend my Summer's here as a Michigan wedding photographer. Between me living in Northern Michigan, Emily living in Grand Rapids, and her growing up in Metro Detroit, we have the entire state covered. Northern Michigan is known for its lakes, wineries, countryside and nature. The 3 wedding venues we visited on this leg of the trip cover that gamut perfectly, showing you the best of what a Northern Michigan wedding venue has to offer.</p>
<h4>AURORA CELLARS</h4>
<p>I was already familiar with Aurora cellars, having visited the property once before for a wedding, a venue tour, and to enjoy the winery. I wanted to include this on the tour of Michigan's best wedding venues because I knew it was one Emily should experience and I wanted the chance to approach the property from a different, more documentary style perspective. The feeling I left with was this - there isn't a bad angle to this property. Every direction you turn, is a beautiful feature, texture, color. It feels like you are on a quaint farm, at a winery, and in the middle of nature all at the same time. The entrance to the venue sets the tone with pink floral adorned arches and a colorful row of shrubs, as guests gaze out into the winery vines on the right. </p>
<h4><img alt="aurora cellars exterior northern michigan best wedding venue and winery" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-4_web.jpg" width="600"/> </h4>
<p><img alt="aurora cellars wedding venue entrance in northern michigan by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-7_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>WEDDING CEREMONY LOCATION</h5>
<p>The showstopper and reason most people are won over by this property is the ceremony location. Just steps from the wedding venue entrance is one of the largest willow trees I have ever seen. Not only is it a dream ceremony backdrop, but a dream location for your couples portraits for your Northern Michigan wedding.</p>
<p><img alt="ceremony location with large willow tree at northern michigan wedding venue aurora cellars" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-14_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>EXTERIOR FARMHOUSE AND GREENSPACE</h5>
<p>The property features a cute, refinished farmhouse / guesthouse where the bridal party can get ready and even stay the weekend on the property. It's fully furnished on the interior and serves as a cocktail hour bar before your wedding reception. </p>
<p><img alt="farm house getting ready location for northern michigan bridal party and wedding at aurora cellars" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-9_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>WEDDING RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>As a lot of my favorite venues seem to have, Aurora Cellars features a permanent, concrete pad, tent installation so you never have to worry about rain washing out your Northern Michigan wedding day. </p>
<p><img alt="permanent wedding reception tent at northern michigan wedding venue aurora cellars by brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-11_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Aurora Cellars even takes it a step further and provides farmhouse tables for seating of guests during dinner. </p>
<p><img alt="farmhouse tables for wedding reception under tent in northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-17_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>FARMHOUSE INTERIOR AND BRIDAL PREP ROOM</h5>
<p>The interior of the farmhouse / guesthouse has a fully functioning kitchen, guest bedrooms and a large masterbedroom for wedding couples and bridal getting ready. The bridal party can also use the downstairs living room as a prep/ hangout area. it features lots of space and a ton of available light - perfect for those dreamy getting ready photographs with your bridesmaids. </p>
<p><img alt="farmhouse interior and bridal prep room at northern michigan wedding venue aurora cellars" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-28_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="guest bedrooms at weekend getaway wedding venue aurora cellars winery in northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-27_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="fuji x100v and mirrorself portrait and door knob at aurora cellars in traverse city michigan leelanau county " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-g-aurora-cellars-best-wedding-venue-northern-michigan-brian-d-smith-photography-30_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BEST NORTHERN MICHIGAN WEDDING VENUE AURORA CELLARS</h5>
<p>Aurora Cellars is certainly a standout in the Northern Michigan wedd venue market, but definitively a favorite in the Traverse City / Leelanau County area. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.auroracellars.com/wedding/" target="_blank" title="https://www.auroracellars.com/wedding/">Click here for more information about Aurora Cellars Weddings</a></span></p>
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<h4>FOUNTAIN POINT RESORT</h4>
<p>Fountain Point is unique as a Michigan Wedding Venue in that it serves as a family vacation resort. Nestled along Lake Leelanau, this venue has a very communal feel, and an inviting atmosphere for wedding couples and out of town guests. Guests can even stay on the property and it is highly encouraged to rent out the entire venue and stay in one of the main house's vintage styled guest rooms or one of the cottages on the property's grounds. Fountain Point feels like Northern Michigan feels to me. It feels like my lake house that I grew up spending my summer's at. It feels like family, and for this reason it makes the list of best Northern Michigan wedding venues. </p>
<p><img alt="fountain point resort northern michigan wedding venue entrance by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The exterior is reminiscent of a summer cottage and vintage Inn that Northern Michigan's lakesides are known for.</p>
<p><img alt="fountain point resort main hotel and house exterior and gardens by brian d smith photography in northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-2_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The inn features a spacious wrap around porch where guests can enjoy the beautiful Northern Michigan sunsets on your wedding day, or you can sip coffee with your significant other or bridal party on your destination wedding weekend. </p>
<p><img alt="best northern michigan lakeside wedding venue fountain point showing exterior of inn" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-5_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="fountain point resort outdoor nature wedding venue in northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-8_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The famous fountain that provides the resort with its historic name.</p>
<p><img alt="fountain point resort and wedding venue fountain by michigan wedding photographer brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-9_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>FOUNTAIN POINT RESORT INN</h5>
<p>The inn has plenty of space for guests to hang out and relax on your wedding weekend and guest bedrooms upstairs so that your close friends and family can stay on the property. </p>
<p><img alt="fountain point resort and inn interior and guest houses for destination wedding weekend" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-13_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>GUEST COTTAGES FOR DESTINATION WEDDING WEEKEND</h5>
<p>The guest cottages located on the wedding venue grounds offer your close friends and family the opportunity to partake in the traditional Northern Michigan lake cottage experience. </p>
<p><img alt="guest cottages at fountain point resort destination wedding venue in northern michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-h-fountain-point-resort-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-15_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFORMATION ABOUT FOUNTAIN POINT RESORT - NORTHERN MICHIGAN WEDDING VENUE</h5>
<p>Fountain Point Resort offers one of Northern Michigan's few, truly waterfront wedding venue experiences and the communal atmosphere is certainly unlike any other I have visited on my tour of best Michigan wedding venues. All I can say is that it feels like the best of the Northern Michigan experience. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.fountainpointresort.com/weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://www.fountainpointresort.com/weddings/">Click here for more information about Fountain Point Resort Weddings</a></span></p>
<p></p>
<h4>NATURE</h4>
<p>"Unique and Thoughtfully Intentioned" - This is my overall impression of Nature Michigan as a place, as a wedding venue, as a destination and as an experience. From the onset, my experience touring this Northern Michigan Wedding venue was unlike any other, largely because the venue is unlike any other, but mostly because of the owner's hospitality. Bryan purchased the blank slate property alongside his wife Emma where they built a venue, an experience, and a home from the ground up. Bryan spent hours showing us around the property and I am grateful for the time he took (on his birthday!) to show us around the property and communicate every inch of intention that he placed into the design and conceptualization of this Michigan wedding venue. His beliefs, passion for nature, love of danish design, and care for the journey of human life come through in his speech, but equally so in the venue itself. This is something that made the venue so special to me. He had a vision for his own life and expressed that, passionately, in a place to begin yours. </p>
<p><img alt="nature a michigan retreat best northern michigan wedding venue" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-27_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>You can't help but notice a vintage Volkswagen camper van when you show up anywhere...little did I know, this would be our tour guide for the day. As a lover of old automobiles, I was thrilled. </p>
<p><img alt="yellow volkswagen camper van in northern michigan at nature wedding venue by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Bryan toured us around the vast property, pointing out every meaningful detail of the wedding venue. Exploring the grounds, you truly do feel like you are in nature, and I found it to be such a unique experience in a wedding venue.</p>
<p><img alt="volkswagen camper van at nature michigan retreat wedding venue and glamping in northern mighican" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-14_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>Guests can stay on the property at one of the 'glamping' tent locations or at one of the blank tent plots for a truly unique, destination wedding weekend experience. </p>
<p><img alt="glamping tents at northern michigan nature a michigan retreat in leelanau " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-13_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>CEREMONY LOCATIONS</h5>
<p>Nature features several ceremony locations, all of them outdoors, all of them connected to the beauty of nature in Northern Michigan. 3 of the wedding ceremony locations are breaks in the trees atop hills on the property. What I found inspiring about these locations, some of them dark sky certified, was their feeling of peace. I couldn't hear a thing aside from the rustling of the trees or the singing of birds. If you love nature, as a couple planning to get married, I think this is should definitely be considered as a ceremony location for your summer or winter michigan wedding. Older guests will have to be shuttled up, but Bryan has options for transportation services.</p>
<p><img alt="northern michigan outdoor wedding ceremony locations at nature a michigan retreat" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-8_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The lower ceremony location is situated at the rear of the reception building, and features an equally beautiful and peaceful backdrop. I don't think you can go wrong with any of the locations and I'm certain Bryan would be happy to talk you through the decision. </p>
<p><img alt="lower wedding ceremony location at nature a michigan retreat wedding venue in leelanau michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-26_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>WEDDING RECEPTION LOCATION</h5>
<p>Wedding receptions are held in the building that sits at the main entrance to the property. It features a prep kitchen space, bathrooms for getting ready and guests, a yoga room, and plenty of beautiful natural light. Bryan spoke to Emily and I about the intention that went into the direction of the building and the angles of the windows relative to the sun to provide optimal light and view of the surrounding nature. Its these thoughtfulm details that make this venue so special. Plus, a wedding planner can't go wrong with a beaufitul blank slate wedding reception venue with plenty of natural light. </p>
<p><img alt="interior window light of wedding reception venue nature michigan by wedding photographer brian d smith" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-17_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="nature michigan retreat wedding getting ready bathrooms self portrait by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-18_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>The thoughful touches continue into every corner of this Northern Michigan wedding venue including a cocktail hour bar installation and one of the worlds most efficient wood stoves. </p>
<p><img alt="wood stove and northern michigan indoor wedding reception venue nature michigan" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/fortogs/michigan-wedding-venues/2006-i-nature-michigan-retreat-best-northern-michigan-wedding-venue-brian-d-smith-photography-film-22_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h5>MORE INFORMATION ABOUT NORTHERN MICHIGAN WEDDING VENUE - NATURE</h5>
<p>Nature was the perfect venue to cap my tour of Michigan's best wedding venues, and will certainly sit at or near the top as one of my favorites of the tour. I'm certain that future brides and grooms will love Bryan's enthusiasm and intent just as much as Emily and I did, and connect with the overall experience that Nature offers as a wedding ceremony location, reception space, and destination wedding weekend getaway in Northern Michigan. Plus, it was the only wedding venue on the trip that I left with homework, a renowned must read book on storytelling in cinematography, and I think that's hella cool. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.naturemichigan.com/weddings" target="_blank" title="http://www.naturemichigan.com/weddings">Click here for more information about Nature</a></span></p>
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<p><span></span><em>FROM BRIAN D SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY</em></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the wedding photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in wedding photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your wedding and tell your unique story with an artful eye. I celebrate all couples, LGBTQ and straight. I celebrate all races and backgrounds, and there isn't a soul in this world that doesn't have an inspiring story to be told. </span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>
<p><em>FROM CONNOLLY HOUSE EVENTS</em></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/contact" target="_blank" title="https://www.connollyhouseevents.com/contact">Contact Emily from Connolly House Events</a></span></span></h3>Creating Moody Editorial Fashion Photography in my Charleston SC Backyard2020-07-13T17:16:25+00:002024-03-29T04:36:28+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/creating-moody-editorial-fashion-photography-in-my-charleston-sc-backyard/<h2>About the Moody Fashion Editorial</h2>
<p>Part creative outlet, part targeted marketing for fashion work. Glennon and I have collaborated quite a few times now. I trust her style and she trusts my vision and we have developed a really good working relationship for creating beautiful work with little planning. I had a backdrop setup that I wanted to explore more, and Glennon knows my vibe and style and brings clothes to match. We show up, we get a feel for the vibe, lighting and colors and get to work. I'm fairly handsoff when it comes to posing. I place the model in the good light and give her the space and freedom she needs to work. It is often the in between expressions that end up being my favorite. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc fashion editorial with outdoor studio and savage muslin backdrop of girl in black and white" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/projects/general/2006-glennon-wagner-charleston-backdrop-fashion-editorial-faded-pink-00021_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h3>How would I describe fashion photography style</h3>
<p>I work two ways when approaching fashion photography and editorials. If the mood and setting calls for more posed shots, or dramatic lighting, or more heavily constructed sets, I will pose the model more strictly and be more dilligent with angles, lighting, etc.. For editorial projects like this, I construct a scene and let the model move through her poses and moods. The outcome is fashion photography with more of a story driven feel. You feel like you are moving with the model and experiencing her emotions, which I find often works really well to sell a style or vibe...especially when targeting the everyday consumer. It's dramatic but feels approachable. When I approach fashion photography this way, I feel like I am seeing into the model's soul. It's a window into their world. </p>
<h2>How I Create Fashion Editorials in my Charleston SC Backyard</h2>
<p>This setup is one I have used quite often, but I approach the fashion shoot in a different way each time. I construct an outdoor studio in the backyard of my Charleston SC Photography Studio blending a Savage Universal Muslin backdrop into the foliage of my environment. The result is something that feels constructed and editorial, but also natural and approachable. This has been my favorite method of creating lately - a juxtaposition between the natural and manmade. </p>
<h3>Equipment Used and Film Portraits</h3>
<p>I photographed this editorial using my Sony a7iii and adapted Leica Summilux-m 50mm F1.4 lens (my favorite digital combination). The majority of my work is shot on film but I like the affordability of digital, allowing me to shoot more and capture the in between moments, that I may have been hesitant to shoot on film. I shoot all manual focus which helps keep me connected to my work. The out of focus images, I find, end up adding to the mood and are often my favorites of the shoot. I always shoot for mood over perfection when I photograph anything: portraits, weddings, fashion photography, etc.. The backdrop is a 10'x24' dark grey muslin backdrop from Savage Universal. I even shot a roll of medium format kodak Portra 800 film through my Hasselblad 202FA and 110mm F2 lens. </p>
<p><img alt="medium format film portraits of girl in backyard fashion editorial in charleston sc wearing bandana top" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/projects/general/2006-glennon-charleston-hasselblad-kodak-film-portraits-p800-00001_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
<h3>Fashion Editorial Location</h3>
<p>This shoot was constructed outside of my Charleston South Carolina Portrait Studio. We shot starting around 6PM to get the beautiful sunset light fading in slightly over the backdrop. It creates this beautiful spotlight effect to separate the model from the backdrop and the light reflecting from the nearby houses helps to fill in the front side of the subject. </p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Editorial Photography</h2>
<p>I have portrait studios in Charleston South Carolina and Traverse City Michigan, but am constantly traveling around the country and world in search of new faces and unique backdrops.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/creative-editorial/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/creative-editorial/">Brian D Smith Photography Editorial Portfolio and Information</a></span></p>
<p>~~ ~~</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial<span> </span>and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Editorial Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Fashion Editorial in a Backyard Portrait Studio2020-07-02T12:51:27+00:002024-03-29T05:55:59+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/fashion-editorial-in-a-backyard-portrait-studio/<h2>How I Convert My Backyard into a Portrait Studio for a Fashion Editorial</h2>
<p></p>
<p>I tried this portrait studio setup outdoors on a bit of a whim. I was tiring of shooting against seamless paper, so I tried my Savage Universal Muslin backdrop oudoors on a traditional backdrop stand. I placed the backdrop in multiple locations but didn't quite love it. It wasn't until I had the thought to blend it into the trees that I completely fell in love with it. Glennon brought over her own styling from her personal wardrobe and as always killed the mood and vibe in this vintage fashion editorial at my Charleston SC home. The warm clothes and skin tones pop against the cool greys and deep greens of the surrounding. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc fashion editorial in a backyard studio with savage universal dark grey muslin 10'x24' backdrop" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/projects/general/2006-glennon-wagner-charleston-backdrop-high-fashion-editorial-warmth-00011_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p></p>
<h2>Equipment Used</h2>
<p>I photographed this editorial using my Sony a7iii and adapted Leica Summilux-m 50mm F1.4 lens (my favorite digital combination). I tend to shoot most of my work on film, but have found this combination quite a joy to shoot and gets me close to the look of my film imagery. Sometimes I prefer digital for fashion work because it affords me the opportunity to shoot more to catch the imperfect and in between moments that often end up being my favorite. The backdrop is a 10'x24' dark grey muslin backdrop from Savage Universal. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Editorial Photography</h2>
<p>I have portrait studios in Charleston South Carolina and Traverse City Michigan, but am constantly traveling around the country and world in search of new faces and unique backdrops.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/creative-editorial/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/creative-editorial/">Brian D Smith Photography Editorial Portfolio and Information</a></span></p>
<p>~~ ~~</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial<span> </span>and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Editorial Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Charleston South Carolina Portraits in an Outdoor Studio2020-06-18T21:38:41+00:002024-03-29T12:08:41+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/charleston-south-carolina-portraits-in-an-outdoor-studio/<h2>About The Vintage Fashion Portraits in Charleston SC</h2>
<p>I connected with Sally G Mahon, another talented Charleston photographer, on instagram when I posted looking for portrait subjects for a backyard studio concept I had dreamt up during another shoot. I photograph out of my home portrait studio in Charleston SC, but have long been inspired by images of backdrops being used for outdoor portraiture. I actually tried out a similar concept, using seamless paper, in an Asheville vintage fashion shoot a year prior. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/projects/asheville-river-arts-outdoor-backdrop-fashion-on-film/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/projects/asheville-river-arts-outdoor-backdrop-fashion-on-film/">Vintage Asheville Fashion Portraits Outdoors with a Backdrop</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></p>
<p>There is something beautiful about the juxtaposition of a clean, pressed backdrop against the chaos and organic beauty of nature and textures of mandmade constructions. I always try to challenge myself as a portrait photographer, incorporating fashion inspiration into my portrait work. These Charleston portraits came out so much more beautifully than I could have imagined, and I'm keen to try the setup again and keep pushing myself as a Fashion Portrait Photographer and Studio Photographer. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc outdoor backdrop portraits of girl in pink vintage dress with muslin fabric" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/portraits/2006-sally-mahon-outdoor-backdrop-vintage-style-portraits-charleston-00001_web.jpg" width="600"/> </p>
<p><img alt="charleston south carolina portrait photographer brian d smith photographs a girl in a vintage dress in an outdoor backdrop inspired portrait session" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/portraits/2006-sally-mahon-outdoor-backdrop-vintage-style-portraits-charleston-00002_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<h2>The Setup and Styling for my Portrait Photography Sessions</h2>
<p>Oftentimes, well nearly every time, my portrait photography sessions in Charleston SC and destination start with a vague concept or idea and blossom into a beautifully styled and collaboritive effort between me and the portrait subject. I think part of this has to do with me seeking out fashionable people to photograph, but a lot of it is making decisions on the fly with regards to colors and styling. The model sent me pictures of the dresses beforehand and after 3-4 setups with the backdrop, deciding on the one in the photographs, I knew the vintage pink dress would be the perfect contrast to the cool blue/grey of the Savage muslin backdrop. </p>
<p><img alt="charleston ss portraits against a savage universal muslin crushed backdrop by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/portraits/2006-sally-mahon-outdoor-backdrop-vintage-style-portraits-charleston-00010_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p>I even shot some 4x5 film that I developed and scanned myself. You can check out those images in my blog post about my first time shooting 4x5 film and first experiences developing it myself. </p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/large-format-black-and-white-film-portraits-in-my-charleston-back-yard/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/large-format-black-and-white-film-portraits-in-my-charleston-back-yard/">My First Experiences Shooting Large Format Film</a></span></p>
<p><img alt="4x5 film image of girl in charleston sc with vintage dress in front of savage universal muslin backdrop by brian d smith photography" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/portraits/2006-sally-mahon-4x5-kodak-tmax-100-film-portraits-intrepid-charleston-00001_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><img alt="charleston sc fashion and portrait photographer brian d smith photographs portraits in his home studio " src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/portraits/2006-sally-mahon-outdoor-backdrop-vintage-style-portraits-charleston-00018_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.levi.com/US/en_US/levis-vintage-clothing/levis-vintage-clothing-for-men/c/levi_clothing_men_vintage_clothing_us" target="_blank" title="https://www.levi.com/US/en_US/levis-vintage-clothing/levis-vintage-clothing-for-men/c/levi_clothing_men_vintage_clothing_us"></a></span></p>
<h2>Learn more about Brian D Smith Portrait Photography</h2>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/" target="_blank" title="https://briandsmithphotography.com/portraiture/">Brian D Smith Photography Portrait Portfolio and Information</a></span></p>
<p>~~ ~~</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial<span> </span>and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Portrait Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Vintage Levis Inspired Women's Fashion Lookbook2020-01-29T21:44:38+00:002024-03-28T18:27:07+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/vintage-levis-inspired-womens-fashion-lookbook/<h2>Inspiration for The Vintage Fashion Editorial Lookbook</h2>
<p>A Levi's Vintage Clothing inspired fashion lookbook telling the story of a struggling musician working her way through abrupt the highs and lows of pursuing a dream. Women's fashion, vintage clothing, and storytelling through photography. To shop clothing similar to the jacket in this Michigan Fashion editorial, check out Levis Vintage Clothing.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.levi.com/US/en_US/levis-vintage-clothing/levis-vintage-clothing-for-men/c/levi_clothing_men_vintage_clothing_us" target="_blank" title="https://www.levi.com/US/en_US/levis-vintage-clothing/levis-vintage-clothing-for-men/c/levi_clothing_men_vintage_clothing_us">Levis Vintage Clothing - Levis.com</a></span></p>
<p>~~ ~~</p>
<p><span></span></p>
<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>
<p></p>Colorful Fall and Golden Hour Portraits in Charleston's Hampton Park2019-12-17T17:30:44+00:002024-03-28T18:27:10+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/colorful-fall-and-golden-hour-portraits-in-charlestons-hampton-park/<p>Fall colors in Charleston South Carolina's Hampton Park are hard to beat. These dreamy portraits were photographed at golden hour, capturing all of the beautiful fading light and season during the transition to winter. </p>Preview of Sam and Davids Colorful Middleton Place Wedding2019-11-27T19:16:11+00:002024-03-28T19:17:31+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/stories/preview-of-sam-and-davids-colorful-middleton-place-wedding/<p>Sam and David, this preview is for you. You two were the most wonderful clients from the very beginning. You let me do my thing, you let me try artistic things, and I greatly appreciate that. Congratulations and I can't wait to see how your lives unfold. </p>
<h4>VENDORS</h4>
<p>Photography: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/" target="_blank" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/">Brian D Smith Photography</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/">https://www.instagram.com/briandsmithphotography/</a></span></p>
<p>Planning + Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://fabulousfete.com/" target="_blank" title="http://fabulousfete.com/">Fabulous Fete</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/">https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/</a></span></p>
<p>Hotel: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/north-america/usa/sc/charleston/belmond-charleston-place/" target="_blank" title="https://www.belmond.com/hotels/north-america/usa/sc/charleston/belmond-charleston-place/">The Belmond - Charleston Place</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/belmondcharlestonplace/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/belmondcharlestonplace/">https://www.instagram.com/belmondcharlestonplace/</a></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/fabulous_fete/"></a></span>Floral Design: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.beardedflorist.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.beardedflorist.com/">Bearded Florist</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/bearded.florist/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/bearded.florist/">https://www.instagram.com/bearded.florist/</a></span></p>
<p>Venue: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.middletonplace.org/host-an-event/weddings/" target="_blank" title="https://www.middletonplace.org/host-an-event/weddings/">Middleton Place</a></span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/middletonplaceweddings/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/middletonplaceweddings/">https://www.instagram.com/middletonplaceweddings/</a></span></p>
<p>Hair + Makeup Artist: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.wildivorybeauty.com/">Wild Ivory Beauty</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/">https://www.instagram.com/wildivorybeauty/</a></span></p>
<p>Band: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/davidhigginsband/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/davidhigginsband/">https://www.instagram.com/davidhigginsband/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.thefrencheclectic.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.thefrencheclectic.com/">The French Eclectic</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thefrencheclectic/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/thefrencheclectic/">https://www.instagram.com/thefrencheclectic/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.snyderevents.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.snyderevents.com/">Snyder Events</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/">https://www.instagram.com/snyderevents/</a></span></p>
<p>Rentals: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://eventhausrentals.com/" target="_blank" title="https://eventhausrentals.com/">Event Haus</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/event_haus/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/event_haus/">https://www.instagram.com/event_haus/</a></span></p>
<p>Lighting: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.lowcountryentertainmentsc.com/" target="_blank" title="https://www.lowcountryentertainmentsc.com/">Lowcountry Entertainment</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/">https://www.instagram.com/lowcountryentertainment/</a></span></p>
<p>Cake: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.abcdcakes.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.abcdcakes.com/">ABCD Cakes</a> </span><span> </span>/ <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/abcdcakemake/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/abcdcakemake/">https://www.instagram.com/abcdcakemake/</a></span></p>
<p>Transportation: <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.lowcountrylooptrolley.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.lowcountrylooptrolley.com/">Lowcountry Trolley</a></span> / <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountrytrolley/" target="_blank" title="https://www.instagram.com/lowcountrytrolley/">https://www.instagram.com/lowcountrytrolley/</a></span></p>Summer Fashion Lookbook on Northern Michigan Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes2019-11-21T14:48:49+00:002024-03-28T23:57:03+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/summer-fashion-lookbook-on-northern-michigan-sleeping-bear-sand-dunes/<p>Summer fashion lookbook on Northern Michigan's Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes. Shot on Kodak Gold 200 film with a Leica M-A and Summicron 35mm and a sony a7iii with a adapted Leica Summilux 50mm. </p>Vintage Fashion in Ashevilles RIver Arts District2019-11-18T16:38:24+00:002024-03-29T10:39:59+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/vintage-fashion-in-ashevilles-river-arts-district/<p>Vintage fashion portraits in the grungy Asheville River Arts District. Split toning gives the images a vintage feel, similar to old Kodak Kodachrome slide film. Shot on Sony a7iii and Leica 50mm Summilux asph</p>Joyful Fall Studio Fashion Editorial Inspiration in Charleston SC2019-11-17T10:31:30+00:002024-03-29T05:47:11+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/joyful-fall-studio-fashion-inspiration-against-white-seamless/<h2>Inspiration behind the earth toned Charleston SC studio fashion shoot</h2>
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<p>Studio fashion portraits a la a Jcrew Catalog in my Charleston South Carolina Studio. This editorial sequence was inspired by fall, earth toned clothing and the expressive characteristics of the model, Hollis. Her vibrant energy became the focus, showcasing the breadth of emotions typically found in catalog fashion photography. Shot against a white backdrop, with earth toned fall attire, edited to mimic the look of Kodak Gold 200 film. Shot on my Sony a7iii + Zeiss 55 F1.8. Shot against Savage Universal Pure White Seamless paper.</p>
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<p><span>If you are inspired by what you read, I'd love to invite you to reach out about the photography services I offer. My guarantee is that you won't find a photographer that cares more about you and your story than I. I'm endlessly passionate about telling stories on film and pushing the boundaries of art in editorial<span> </span>and portrait photography. I'd be thrilled to work for you and document your story, wedding or business in Charleston South Carolina, Northern Michigan, or any destination abroad.</span></p>
<p><span>If you'd like more info about this post, would just like to chat, or are ready to book, reach out to me by visiting my contact page here</span><span>!</span></p>
<h3><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span><a href="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/" title="http://briandsmithphotography.com/contactpage/">Contact Editorial Photographer Brian D Smith Photography</a></span></span></h3>Charleston Street Portraits with the Sony a7iii Leica Summilux 50 Voigtlander VME2019-10-13T13:09:05+00:002024-03-29T07:34:20+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/10-10-19/<p>Testing out the Leica Summilux 50mm F1.4 asph on my Sony a7iii with the Voigtlander VM-E close focus adapter - Quick portraits of friends at golden hour in Charleston, SC. </p>Two Light Studio Fashion Portraits on Olive Seamless2019-09-03T13:04:11+00:002024-03-29T06:06:07+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/two-light-studio-fashion-portraits-on-olive-seamless/<p>One Godox AD600 camera left with a 48" Wescott softbox to create broad and soft shadow definition and to wrap around a bit to the side as a kicker in the hair. A smaller 28" softbox with two Godox AD200 lights was placed camera right to serve as a key light on the face for broad and short lighting. Shot with Sony a7iii, Canon 85mm F1.2LII and Metabones V. </p>Two Light Studio Fashion Portraits on Ultramarine Seamless2019-09-03T11:33:22+00:002024-03-29T09:15:45+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/two-light-studio-fashion-portraits-on-ultramarine-seamless/<p>Fashion portraits in the Brian D Smith Photography studio with a two light setup. One Godox AD600 with 48" wescott softbox and a twin AD200 setup with a 28" softbox as key directed on the subject face, camera right. Shot on Sony a7iii, metabones V and adapted Canon 85mm F1.2L II</p>Family Portraits at Northern Michigan's Point Betsie Lighthouse2019-08-23T19:55:38+00:002024-03-28T18:24:06+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/point-betsie-northern-michigan-family-portraits-sunset/<p>Northern Michigan has no shortage of beautiful locations for family portraits. When Kate reached out to me about photographing her family at Point Betsie Lighthouse, I couldn't say yes quick enough. It's one of my favorite locations, situated just off Michigan's famous M22 loop. Just 30 minutes from my family cottage, it's a place I have visited many times. This was my first time photographing a family at the location and I'm thrilled with the results! For more information about the Point Betsie Lighthouse, check out the information below. </p>
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<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.pointbetsie.org/" target="_blank" title="https://www.pointbetsie.org/">Point Betsie Lighthouse</a></span></p>
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<p>The location features stunning ocean views, and a gorgeous red roof barn with a historic lighthouse attached. Sandy beaches and gorgeous sun reflecting off the water make this one of Northern Michigan's most scenic locations, perfect for capturing family memories. </p>
<p><img alt="point betsie family black and white candid photographer northern michigan portraits" src="https://briandsmithphotography.com/static/media/uploads/blog/blog/1908-point-betsie-lighthouse-michigan-family-portraits-beach-38_web.jpg" width="600"/></p>
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<p></p>Vintage Olive and Earth Toned Fashion Studio Portraits2019-08-23T09:39:16+00:002024-03-29T11:42:57+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/earth-toned--michigan-studio-fashion-portraits-olive-seamless/<p>Earth toned fashion portraits with two female models in studio. An olive and earth toned color scheme, remeniscent of the 60s with an album cover feel. This fashion series was shot in studio with a two light and single reflector setup. Godox AD600, AD200, Wescott Rapidbox 48" and 36" softbox.</p>Blue, Red and Yellow Fashion Portrait Spread in an Industrial Amsterdam Warehouse2019-08-22T22:45:02+00:002024-03-29T08:34:17+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/blue-red-yellow-architectural-fashion-amsterdam-ndsm/<p>Blue, red and yellow architectural inspired fashion portraits at Amsterdam's NDSM warehouse building for creatives. Shot on Sony a7iii and Leica 50mm Summiluz F1.4</p>Yellow and Red Fashion Inspiration Shoot at Amsterdam's NDSM warehouse2019-08-22T22:30:15+00:002024-03-29T12:10:19+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/yellow-red-ndsm-amsterdam-fashion-portraits/<p>Yellow and red toned fashion portrait spread photographed in the industrial NDSM warehouse in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Shot on Sony a7iii + Leica 50 Summilux F1.4</p>Dramatic Hollywood Style Strobe Lighting in Studio2019-08-01T15:19:22+00:002024-03-28T18:22:33+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/dramatic-hollywood-style-strobe-lighting-in-studio/<p>Dramatic hollywood style studio lighting setups created with a Godox AD600 and AD200 strobes with Wescott 48" octabox and a 26" octabox. Multiple lighting scenarios, all focusing on slimming the face and creating drama with shadows. </p>Split Toned Portraiture Using LED and Natural Light in Studio2019-08-01T15:05:11+00:002024-03-29T04:18:57+00:00adminhttps://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/author/admin/https://briandsmithphotography.com/blog/split-toned-portraiture-using-led-and-natural-light-in-studio/<p>Split toned orange and blue portraits were created using a constant LED light with an orange gel, and natural light coming in from a window to fill the shadows with a blue hue. White balance was set to slightly cooler than the temp of the LED light. </p>