
Cortney and Andrew’s Lake Michigan beach session was the kind of engagement shoot that instantly feels like a deep breath.
Open sky, shoreline for days, and that easy, “let’s just go for a walk together” vibe. Plus, their dogs came along, which is always a win.
A Lake Michigan beach session is simple in the best way.
You get wide, clean backdrops. You get movement without trying. You get candid moments that happen naturally because you are literally just walking and hanging out together.
Cortney and Andrew fit that vibe perfectly. Relaxed, connected, and totally down to let the session feel like them.
They had mentioned Michigan City for the beach spot, and even without pinning down the exact name, the location delivered everything we wanted.
Soft sand, lake breeze, and that warm glow that makes skin tones look amazing and keeps the whole session feeling light and natural.
Their dogs joined for a chunk of the session, and the energy immediately shifted into full “this is our real life” mode.
We grabbed a handful of photos with all four of them together, then let Cortney and Andrew have space for couple portraits while the pups got a break.
Dog photos do not need to be a whole production. A few great frames is all you need, and they end up being the ones you print because it feels so personal.
Once we got moving down the shoreline, everything got even easier.
We kept the prompts simple, walk together, pull in close, laugh at each other, and let the wind do its thing. The result was a gallery that feels real and looks timeless.
1) Plan around golden hour.
Beach light is at its best when the sun is low. Softer, warmer, and way more flattering.
2) Expect wind, and dress for it.
Layers, textures, and outfits that move well always look incredible by the lake.
3) If you bring your dogs, bring a helper.
A friend can hold leashes, carry treats, and step in when we swap between dog photos and couple photos. It keeps everything smooth.
If you want engagement photos that feel laid-back, personal, and full of movement, a Lake Michigan beach session is such a good choice.
Bring your favorite person, bring your pups if you want, and we’ll handle the rest.
Getting Married? Check out our work here and contact us!
We’re Westley Leon Studios, a team of wedding photographers in South Bend, Indiana with an unwavering commitment to authentic imagery and a personal experience. For the couples who choose a damn good time over stuffy propriety every time.
Studio Address: 218 Front St Niles, MI 49120
Mailing Address: 1606 Oak St Niles MI 49120
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