An Adventure Engagement Session
From my first call with Kenzie and Braeden, I could tell immediately that their connection was something special. Their love for adventure and the outdoors made Presque Isle Park in Marquette, Michigan, the perfect setting for their engagement session.
If you’ve never been, think rugged rocky shores, waves crashing against the cliffs, and the kind of scenery that makes you stop in your tracks. It’s a slice of the Upper Peninsula that feels like it belongs on the Oregon coast— feels like an adventure, and absolutely breathtaking.
We scheduled their session for an August evening, hoping to catch that golden sunset glow over Lake Superior. But, as we all know, Mother Nature has her own ideas sometimes. The weather that day was cool, cloudy, and a bit stormy—not exactly a summer vibe, but oh-so-dramatic. The wind whipped through Kenzie’s hair, the waves roared, and honestly, it felt like we were in the middle of a movie. The stormy vibes only added to the sense of adventure, and it’s one of those things that made the photos even more magical.
Exploring The Upper Peninsula's Dramatic Shoreline
We spent most of our time on the Black Rocks (accurately named) along the north shore of the park. If you’ve never been, these rocks are so dramatic—dark, craggy, and full of texture that looks incredible in photos. Kenzie and Braeden were total naturals, climbing over the rocks like pros and laughing together the whole time. Their energy was infectious, and it was clear that they weren’t just posing for photos—they were making memories.
We also made a quick stop at Sunset Point, but the clouds had their own plans for blocking out the evening light. Honestly, though? The softer, moody tones from the overcast sky gave the images an almost ethereal feel.
One thing I always try to do during sessions is to create a vision together with my couples. Kenzie and Braeden brought so much excitement and trust to the process, which made everything flow seamlessly. They weren’t afraid to be playful, to climb, and to lean into the moment. That sense of adventure is exactly what makes Upper Peninsula engagement photos so unique. You get to embrace the wild beauty of northern Michigan while creating something that still feels personal and real.
Thinking About Your Own Adventure Engagement Photography Session?
I can’t recommend this spot enough. Presque Isle Park is a dream location, but don’t sleep on downtown Marquette either. It’s the perfect complement to the park’s natural beauty, with charming streets, cozy coffee shops, and plenty of spots for more urban-style photos. It’s a nice way to round out the session and capture a little bit of everything this area has to offer. Or go all in with the nature vibe and get into the forest or one of the many beaches.
Kenzie and Braeden left me the sweetest testimonial after our session: “Derrick was amazing to work with! Super good energy and worked with us to create a joint vision!!” It’s couples like these that make me love what I do—not just taking photos but being a part of their story.
So, if you’re planning an engagement session at Presque Isle Park, thinking about Marquette for your big day, or just dreaming of epic Upper Peninsula engagement photos, let’s chat! I’d love to help you bring your vision to life. In the meantime, enjoy the images from Kenzie and Braeden’s session and get inspired for your own adventure.
