Best Places To Take Engagement Pictures In Detroit

Engagement is such an exciting time in your relationship! There is so much to celebrate and so much to plan. Engagement pictures is probably something at the top of your list. You need to remember this special time! Choosing a location to take engagement pictures can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. Some couples like to take pictures at a place that is special to them, and some couples ask for recommendations based on their photographer’s experience. For my Michigan couples who are struggling to decide on a location, here are the best places to take engagement pictures in Detroit!

Engagement Pictures at Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA)

Detroit Institute of Arts is a stunning location for engagement pictures. The building itself is a work of art. The marble exterior makes for the perfect subtle, yet classic background for your timeless engagement pictures. The long, curved staircase, the big arches, and tall columns allow for a variety of pictures without leaving the location. Detroit Institute of Arts also has a grassy area that can be used to add some greenery. 

To provide a change from the classic marble, couples may want to look at Rivera Court. This area of DIA has 27 murals painted by Diego Rivera. Rivera Court has a little bit of an industrial feel, while still holding onto the beauty of art in the background. This is certainly a more unique location. If you are looking for a place that is not as popular, this might be something to look into.

The classic feel of the DIA allows for couples to dress up in dresses and suits, dress down in jeans and a nice top, or both. There really isn’t a wrong answer here! 

Downtown Detroit Engagement Pictures: Z Lot

The Z Lot is such a fun location in Downtown Detroit. While the Z Lot is a parking garage, it’s also so much more than that. The Z Lot is a ten story parking garage, and the walls are covered in art. Graffiti arts from around the world came to Detroit to help create this masterpiece of a building. Besides the stunning artwork that covers the walls, the rooftop of the parking structure is an amazing location to catch the Detroit skyline in the background. This looks amazing during the day and when the buildings are starting to light up around dusk.

The Z Lot is also within walking distance to many different alleys, restaurants and bars, which can add to the urban feel of this location. The Z Lot allows you to get a little bit of everything in your pictures, and the unique artwork is something that will catch the eye of anyone who looks at your engagement pictures.

Because this is a more urban location, this is the perfect spot for couples who love to keep their outfits on the casual side. Jeans work nicely with this space. However, this location also works if the couple is dressed up in their best clothes.

Downtown Detroit Engagement Pictures: Shinola Hotel

My final location recommendation is the Shinola in Downtown Detroit. The Shinola Hotel has a fully brick exterior, making it another beautiful yet subtle backdrop for timeless engagement pictures. As another downtown location, this is perfect for couples who are looking for an urban vibe.

Parker’s Alley is an amazing place tucked away next to the Shinola Hotel. This alley has a brick road, and adorable shops and restaurants line both sides of the street. The lights hanging overhead add to the unique and cozy feel of the space. Many couples who choose Shinola Hotel end up in Parker’s Alley during their session.

Like the locations mentioned above, this space allows for either dressing up or dressing down. The brick background makes for a very versatile backdrop. Wear what makes you feel like your best, most confident selves!

Detroit Wedding Photographers

Now that you have some ideas of the best places for engagement pictures in Detroit, it’s important that you find the right photographer to take your pictures! As a Detroit photographer for many years, I am very familiar with the city and the hidden gem locations surrounding the places listed above. Take a minute to view my website and see if you think Katrina Cross Photography would be a great fit for your session. If you like what you see, fill out the inquiry form so we can connect. Looking forward to hearing from you!