Empire Engagement Session at Sleeping Bear Dunes | Jessica and Sean
Empire is one of my favorite locations for an engagement session in Northern Michigan. With its charming small-town feel, stunning dunes, and easy access to both Lake Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, it offers endless opportunities for breathtaking photos. Whether you’re envisioning an adventurous hike to Empire Bluff Trail for sweeping lake views or a romantic sunset session at Esch Road Beach, this area has something for every couple.
In May, Sean and Jessica chose an engagement session in Empire, Michigan, a place close to their hearts due to their cherished family cottage on Long Lake. “It’s always been a place we can escape to; where if you’d felt like sightseeing, you’d just have to step outside. We chose to have our engagement session there because it offered a fusion of family history and breathtaking scenery that you just simply cannot find elsewhere.” ~Sean
One of the great things about an Empire engagement session is the variety of backdrops within a short distance. After capturing some stunning images along the dunes, we can make a quick stop in downtown Empire for a more rustic and cozy vibe. The small-town charm, combined with the natural beauty of the area, creates a well-rounded collection of photos that truly tell your love story.
These high school sweethearts initially crossed paths in a Spanish class, a class they now humorously admit they didn’t learn much Spanish from. Reflecting on their journey, Sean shared, “We met in a Spanish class, and needless to say, walked away having learned very little Spanish. It’s almost unbelievable looking back at that time and knowing we’ve made it this far, but what’s truly exciting is looking forward and carving a future for ourselves that we’ve been wanting for so long.”
If you’re planning an engagement session in Empire, I always recommend choosing a time when the lighting is at its best—early morning for softer, diffused light or golden hour for those dreamy, glowing shots. And if you’re unsure about where to go, I’m happy to help you choose the perfect spots to match your vision! You can check out more of my engagement photography for inspiration.
Last summer, Sean orchestrated a romantic sunset proposal at Chateau Chantal, and, to no surprise, Jessica said yes. They spent the rest of the day joyfully hopping between Old Mission wineries, surrounded by their loved ones. Sean and Jessica share a mutual love for wine tours, making it a tradition to visit vineyards along M-22, weaving through the picturesque landscapes of Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsula.
Beyond their love for wineries, this dynamic duo shares a passion for tackling crossfit workouts together. They’ve witnessed remarkable progress side by side, offering unwavering support as each other’s loudest (and occasionally most annoying) cheerleaders. Embracing their Michigander roots, Sean and Jessica revel in the pleasures of being on a boat, kayak, or paddleboard whenever they can.
It was a true pleasure sharing one of my favorite local trails with Sean and Jessica during their Empire engagement session. I’m certain this spot will hold a special place in their hearts, a place they’ll revisit over the years. Capturing their love amid Michigan’s stunning backdrop was an absolute delight.
“The wonderful thing about Sleeping Bear Dunes is the serenity you feel when you allow yourself to get lost out there. Immersing ourselves at the coast, among the dunes, without another soul in sight for miles is like hitting a reset button on all the anxieties and stresses we carry up from downstate.” Sean’s words resonate deeply with the magic of this place. Thank you both for choosing to explore with me!
Josh Hartman – Empire Engagement Photographer
Contact me to book your Empire engagement session. My blog is full of helpful tips to help you plan your Sleeping Bear Dunes engagement session.
