Popular Detroit Wedding Photography Locations For Your Engagement and Wedding Photos
We tapped our team of professional wedding photographers to gather these incredibly unique Detroit wedding photography locations that you should consider for your engagement session or wedding day photography.
Important note: Please confirm photography permit or availability with your preferred location. Many properties will only allow photography with advance permission if your ceremony and/or location are not on the property.
Detroit Institute of Arts
Located on Woodward, the Detroit Institute of the Arts (DIA) is one of the gems of downtown. There are fountains, structures, and the front steps just to name a few places where you could get pictures taken. There is also a beautiful wrought iron gate. The overall feel of the DIA is very high-class and sophisticated. Another bonus of shooting here would be that you could head over to the Detroit Public Library (across the street) and get some pictures taken on the 3rd floor over there. There are some restrictions (no flash, no patrons in pictures) in the library, but you would get a lot of options within a small area.
The BELT
The BELT is relatively new, and would be a GREAT space to take photos! Bottom line: it’s an alley in Detroit that got a modern facelift. The colors will blow you away. It received its name because it’s located in what was the former downtown garment district, and it links Gratiot and Grand River Ave. The alley was developed as a partnership between the Library Street Collective and Bedrock Real Estate Services.
Z Lot
Quickly becoming one of the most Detroit photography locations recently, Z Lot is the perfect way to add color to your engagement or wedding day photos. Z Lot is a 10-story parking garage located next to The Belt. The 130-foot wide murals are all so diverse, giving you variety in your engagement session or wedding day photography.
Pro Tip: Visit the rooftop to capture images of Detroit’s skyline!
Parker’s Alley
Located behind the Shinola Hotel, Parker’s Alley offers the perfect backdrop for your engagement or wedding photography. Parker’s Alley is full of shops and restaurants, giving you that urban style. With the stone-paved sidewalk, brick walls, and unique lights, you’ll get a variety of photos at Parker’s Alley.
Pro Tip: Parker’s Alley is just a short walk from Z Lot. Park at Z Lot and visit both locations during your photography session.
Belle Isle
Belle Isle is the only place you can get a photo with an awesome view of Detroit from the water in the background. The Casino on Belle Isle is absolutely elegant with its beautiful early 1900’s charm and the architecture it is truly stunning. Remember, this is now a state park, so all vehicles are required to have a recreational passport sticker or purchase a day pass. If you plan to shoot at the casino, it is best to call and confirm there are no private events taking place.
Campus Martius
Located in the heart of Downtown Detroit, Campus Martius is a treasure for residents and visitors of Detroit. Campus Martius featured meticulously maintained gardens, impressive water features, and restaurants to enjoy. Campus Martius Park was named “Top Public Square” by USA Today in 2021!
Pro Tip: If you’re taking engagement or wedding photos in the winter, Campus Martius is a must-stop for the magical holiday atmosphere.
Eastern Market
Eastern Market is a must-stop in Detroit! Between the flowers, the food the buildings, the shops, and the murals, there’s always an opportunity for the perfect photo. Public art has always been part of the Eastern Market District experience.
Pro Tip: Choose a quiet weekday afternoon to see it all, without the crowds!
Fisher Building
The Fisher Building in Detroit is a landmark skyscraper that will not disappoint. The Fisher Building features breathtaking details from floor to ceiling. If you’re looking for a sophisticated photography location in Detroit, the Fisher Building will be your perfect backdrop.
Detroit Riverfront
The area behind the Renaissance Center consists of a great old-style carousel. In the carousel, there is a popular heart piece that couples often choose to sit in that is truly unique and beautiful. Another neat feature is the walk-through fountain. This is often popular with bridal parties who are hoping to get some really fun action shots. During the summer though, be aware that there will be local kids and residents playing in the fountain. There are also many interesting and iconic architectural pieces and easily accessible landmarks.
Cass Avenue Viaduct
Featuring over 7,500 installed reflectors in a rich sea-green color, the Cass Avenue Viaduct offers a colorful backdrop for your engagement or wedding photos. If you’re looking for a unique and urban style for your photography, the Cass Avenue Viaduct is the perfect Detroit photography location.
Woodward Avenue
Woodward Avenue has some pretty cool spots including the Fox Theater and Hockeytown Cafe. Photographers are known to stop traffic in these locations to get the perfect shot…often while standing in the middle of Woodward! This Detroit photography location has the city’s pride and history all over it. It is a landmark of Detroit and has a great downtown feel.
Foundation Hotel
Located right across from Cobo Center is the Foundation Hotel, which was home to the Detroit Fire Department Headquarters and built in 1929. Foundation Hotel has recently been transformed in a chic hotel, featuring salvaged wooden, modern light fixtures, and Detroit art. The outside of the hotel features picturesque red doors, which you cannot walk by without snapping a few photos!
Hart Plaza
Hart Plaza, named after Senator Philip A. Hart, hosts some of Detroit’s most popular events. Included in the plaza are displays of public art, an ice rink and several amphitheaters. This location offers many opportunities for wedding photos and it is also the #1 spot for watching fireworks in Detroit. Hart Plaza is an iconic stretch and is becoming a popular Detroit photography location for both engagement and wedding pictures.
Michigan Central Station
The Detroit Train Station is a vintage ruin that stands tall and proud in the Detroit skyline . It is truly a relic of Detroit. The station was constructed in the Beaux- Arts Classical style of architecture. This would be a beautiful, historic backdrop for your pictures. A popular shot taken here is to have the entire bridal party on the front lawn with the building in the background. Entry into the building is not permitted as it is not structurally sound or safe.
Comerica Park
A MUST for Tiger’s fans! Internationally recognized Comerica Park in downtown Detroit would be a great choice for a fun shoot, for so many reasons. The giant tiger out front is great for Bridal Party shots. Always make sure to check the Tigers game schedule ahead of time, if there is a game it can make parking difficult and your photos will include Tigers fans in the background. Comerica Park offers a great flavor of Detroit!
District Detroit / Little Caesars Arena
You don’t get any more new and modern than The District Detroit — it’s barely been broken in! You’d surrounded by 50 blocks of thriving businesses, parks, restaurants, bars and of course, Little Caesars Arena. If you’re a couple that craves a vibrant urban setting, look no further!
Mike Staff is the founder and CEO of Mike Staff Productions, one of the most highly acclaimed wedding services companies in the country, providing award-winning Wedding DJs, Wedding Photographers, and Wedding Videography for over 25 years.
