Flat Lay Photos: Why the Details Matter

Beaded white bridal sneakers photographed on wedding day at Fenton Winery & Brewery in Michigan by Arielle Roth Photography

Flat lay photos capture the beauty of your wedding details in a way that ties your entire story together. From your rings and bouquet to invitation suites and heirlooms, these images showcase the thoughtful touches you’ve chosen to make your wedding day your own. They’re more than just pretty pictures, they’re a timeless part of your gallery that highlights the small pieces that might otherwise be overlooked.

Best Wedding Venues in Bay City for Stunning Photos

Bride and groom kissing under an umbrella in Wenonah Park, Downtown Bay City, Michigan during their wedding day

Choosing the right wedding venue is about more than location. It sets the stage for your memories, shapes the feel of your gallery, and becomes part of your love story. As a Bay City wedding photographer, I’ve captured weddings in many incredible spaces, each with its own unique charm. From waterfront venues to rustic barns and historic ballrooms, this guide highlights the best Bay City wedding venues for stunning photos that will make your day unforgettable.

The Most Photogenic Wedding Trends in Michigan This Year

Beautiful Magnolia perfume bottle styled with bridal accessories before wedding at Fenton Winery & Brewery in Michigan captured by Arielle Roth Photography

Michigan weddings are evolving in the most stunning ways this year. From vibrant floral installs to intimate micro-weddings, couples are creating unforgettable celebrations that are not only meaningful but also wildly photogenic. As a Michigan wedding photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how these trends translate into breathtaking images. In this blog, I’m breaking down the top wedding trends that will inspire you to plan a day that looks as good in photos as it feels in the moment.

How to Choose the Perfect Michigan Wedding Photographer

White rose bridal bouquets with greenery at Fenton Winery & Brewery wedding in Michigan

Choosing the right Michigan wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your wedding day. Your photos will become heirlooms that preserve not just how your day looked, but how it felt. With so many photographers to choose from across Michigan, knowing what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to decide who truly fits your style and personality can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to confidently choose the perfect photographer, whether you’re planning an intimate backyard celebration or a grand downtown Detroit wedding.

Katelynn & Andrew

Bride and groom kiss surrounded by cheering wedding party at Michigan celebration

Katelynn and Andrew’s wedding day was filled with heartfelt moments, from their emotional vows beneath a lush outdoor arch to joyful celebrations with their closest friends and family. Their love story unfolded beautifully at Fenton Winery & Brewery, a Michigan venue that perfectly combined rustic charm with a relaxed atmosphere. From romantic portraits under the greenery to candid laughter among the barrels, every image highlights the genuine connection these two share. This gallery captures the joy, romance, and personality of their wedding day, offering a glimpse into a celebration that was both elegant and authentically them.

Sam & Zack

Bride and groom sitting together on the dock at DoubleTree by Hilton Bay City Riverfront in Downtown Bay City, Michigan

Zack and Sam’s Bay City wedding was filled with love, laughter, and timeless moments along the waterfront and at their DoubleTree by Hilton Riverfront reception. From the anticipation of portraits along the docks with sailboats in the background, to sweet details like Sam’s classic bouquet of white roses and Zack’s boutonniere, every image tells the story of their day with elegance and authenticity.

The celebration continued with heartfelt ceremonies, toasts, and plenty of fun at the reception. Guests clapped and cheered as Zack and Sam shared their first dance, cut into their tiered cake adorned with flowers, and joined loved ones on the dance floor. Friends and family toasted with drinks, laughed through the photo booth, and enjoyed live music that kept the energy alive well into the night.

These wedding photos highlight the beauty of downtown Bay City, the charm of a DoubleTree by Hilton Riverfront reception, and the joyful atmosphere that surrounded Zack and Sam as they began their new chapter together.

Ja’Maiya Ryan, Jamaiya Ryan & Co.

Ja’Maiya Ryan with Ryan Studio & Company handbags during branding photography session in Saginaw Michigan.

This branding and headshot session with Ja’Maiya Ryan, founder of Ryan Studio & Company in Saginaw, Michigan, captured both her professional presence and the timeless luxury of her handbag collection. From polished portraits to detailed product photography, every image was designed to highlight her confidence as a business owner while showcasing the craftsmanship of her brand. The session included lifestyle branding shots, modern headshots, and close-up details of the Ryan handbags, giving her a versatile collection of imagery to use across social media, her website, and marketing materials.

Andrew Wiess, EOS & Truck Trolley

Andrew Wiess working on his laptop with EOS and Truck Trolley branding during a professional headshot and branding session in Bay City, Michigan.

Andrew Wiess’s branding and headshot session in Bay City, Michigan, brought together the professionalism of EOS and the entrepreneurial spirit of Truck Trolley. Captured in a modern office setting, this collection blends authentic headshots, candid work moments, and detail shots that showcase the story behind his businesses. From leading strategy sessions and typing through EOS processes to handwritten planning notes and brand details, every image reflects both focus and personality. These photographs highlight Andrew’s approachable leadership, his connection to EOS, and the innovative drive behind Truck Trolley, creating a versatile set of branding images designed for professional websites, social media, and marketing use.

Angela Webb, Sweet Wednesday

Angela Webb of Sweet Wednesday sits on a navy couch surrounded by pastel blue and blush pink Sweet Wednesday luggage during her branding session in Saginaw, Michigan.

Angela Webb, the founder of Sweet Wednesday, stepped in front of my camera in my Bay City, Michigan studio for a branding and headshot session that highlights both her personality and her innovative travel line. These images capture Angela’s confidence and style while showcasing Sweet Wednesday’s luggage collection – featuring sleek blush pink and blue hard-shell suitcases with thoughtful details like USB charging ports, built-in locks, sturdy handles, cup holders, and handbag hooks designed for the modern traveler. From professional portraits that put the face behind the brand in focus, to close-up product shots that reveal every smart design feature, this gallery reflects both the story of an entrepreneur and the functionality of her business. As a Michigan branding photographer, I loved blending lifestyle portraits with detailed product photography to bring Sweet Wednesday’s vision to life.

Suzie & Dan

Couple walking hand in hand along the shoreline at Bay City State Park during their summer Michigan photo session

There’s something magical about Bay City State Park; the sandy shoreline, winding boardwalks, and quiet trails make it the perfect backdrop for a couples session. Suzie & Dan’s gallery captures a love story of 15 years that feels both relaxed and adventurous, from barefoot walks along the beach to playful kisses on the boardwalk and tender moments tucked away in the tall grass. Every detail, from drawing hearts in the sand to forehead touches under the trees, reflects the documentary style of my photography. Honest, romantic, and true to each couple’s story. For couples looking for authentic Michigan photography that blends natural beauty with genuine connection, Bay City State Park delivers a timeless setting.