The entire Michigan west coast is absolutely brimming with photo ops for every type of photographer. From the urban architecture and rich street photography opportunities in Grand Rapids to the stunning natural landscapes at the Sleeping Bear Dunes, the west coast presents some of Michigan’s most inspiring sights.
Even in the 20-degree weather with winds ripping past the towering buildings, Grands Rapids is still one of my favorite places to photograph. Offering photographers both indoor and outdoor opportunities, the city conforms to the inspiration of whoever is holding the camera. Here are some of the most interesting photo opportunities we found in Grand Rapids.
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Bellknap Park
Located on a hill above the city, Bellknap park looks down on Downtown Grand Rapids. This small park offers a unique perspective that would be perfect for sunset shots. The only problem with this particular location is the foliage that partially obstructs an otherwise gorgeous view. To take full advantage of a view that can only be seen from Bellknap park, elevating the camera perspective by flying a drone above the foliage would offer a more comprehensive and un-obstructed view.
Skywalk
In the 20-degree weather, photographing in an indoor location was a welcomed reprieve for our wind-burnt faces and chilled fingers. Out of all of the locations I’ve photographed throughout Michigan, I have never found a more accessible and extensive indoor photo spot (seemingly) open to the public. The skywalk connects several buildings, each with unique lighting (both natural and artificial) and lots of private space perfect for portraits out of way of people making use of the walkways. It is recommended to practice respect for people making their way through the buildings, as they probably have a more legitimate reason for being there. Otherwise, this is an absolutely fantastic location during the winter, and I fully plan on taking advantage of this space in the future.
Madcap Coffee
Another reprieve from the cold conditions. Madcap not only produces quality coffee, but presents photographers with a unique environment for compositions. Of course, this is the cliché coffee photo that is always available for coffee-shop connoisseurs, but the potential for portraits is also there (shooting from the outside through the window, for example). Again, when photographing in an enclosed space (businesses in particular), always make sure to behave in a responsible and respectful manner.
In general, the streets of Grand Rapids are rich with photo opportunities. The alleys near the Van Andel Arena are a popular photo location. Several murals dot the Grand Rapids cityscape. The library also has great potential (granted practicing respect when photographing). Additionally, there are some more “iconic” Grand Rapids photo spots. The Blue Bridge, the La Grande Vitesse, etc. I left these out of the main discussion simply because these locations feel a bit “tourist-y.” I wanted to include some of the lesser-known areas. Everyone who visits inevitably takes a photo at the big red statue or the bright blue bridge. Not everyone makes it out to Bellknap park or thinks to walk around the skywalks for photos.
