A timeless and romantic session at one of Metro Detroit’s most iconic estates
Planning your Michigan engagement photos and looking for a location that blends history, elegance, and natural beauty? The Edsel and Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe is one of the most romantic engagement photo locations— and one of my personal favorites.
Located along the shores of Lake St. Clair, this historic estate offers a stunning mix of lush gardens, Brick and stone architecture, and waterfront views. Its an ideal setting for couples who want their engagement photos to feel refined, heartfelt, and timeless.
For this session, we explored some of the estate’s most scenic areas — The mansion itself, the lakeside paths, the rose garden, and the tucked-away courtyards where the light filters in just right. The couple wanted something romantic but relaxed, architecture focused but also natural. The Ford House gave us the perfect setting to create that balance.
We scheduled our shoot for the late afternoon to catch the golden light peaking through the garden. A major pro tip for anyone planning their engagement photos in Michigan- always do them in the evening, about 2 hours prior to sunset. We were very happy we chose 6pm this day because it was 95 degrees outside! Having the sun low in the sky with a light breeze helped tremendously. Earlier in the day would have been brutal.
Tips for Engagement Photos at the Ford House
If you’re considering the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House for your session, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Permits are required: The estate does require a photography permit for professional sessions, so plan ahead and book in advance.
- Timing is key: Golden hour (1–2 hours before sunset) offers the most flattering light and fewer crowds.
- Wear something timeless: The surroundings have a classic feel — neutral tones, flowing fabrics, or tailored outfits photograph beautifully here.
- Bring a pair of walking shoes: There’s a lot of ground to cover, from gardens to the lakeshore, and it’s worth exploring. Not to mention TONS of Goose poop!
Ready to Book Your Engagement Session?
Whether you’re dreaming of a session filled with golden light and waterfront views or looking to create timeless portraits in one of Michigan’s most historic estates, I’d love to help you plan a session that feels true to you.
Let’s create something beautiful together.
