Trystan 2024 | Senior Pictures Under the Northern Lights

When my son Trystan and I first started brainstorming ideas for his senior pictures, we followed a familiar path: cherry blossoms (turned apple blossoms), fall foliage (detoured to sunflowers), and incorporating his favorite sports. It all felt manageable. Then, he threw a curveball: "What about taking them under the northern lights?"

My mind raced for a second - yes, please! But the logistics? Photographing the aurora is tricky enough. Silhouettes? I can do that. But artificial light (an aurora chasing no-no), a moving subject like Trystan, and hoping for an appearing of the aurora in Mackinaw City all at once? I wasn't sure.

Then, on a crisp September night, the stars sparkled, and the aurora forecast ticked upwards. I pulled Trystan out of bed and a grabbed a fellow photographer friend, and we headed out. Just outside of Mackinaw City, the sky came alive! For a magical 20 minutes, I captured Trystan bathed in the otherworldly glow of the northern lights.

The results were breathtaking, but the experience itself – that quiet time with Trystan, marveling at the dancing lights – was truly special. (We even took breaks to lie in the grass, simply watching.) Every shoot presents a learning curve, and I'm already brimming with ideas for a potential "round two."

This adventure went beyond your average senior pictures. It was a test of skill, an embrace of the unexpected, and a memory Trystan and I will cherish.

Are you a senior seeking unique, unforgettable ways to capture your northern Michigan story? Head over to our contact page and let's chat! We can explore the countless possibilities across northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.

P.S. Dreaming of your own aurora adventure? Check out our guide to chasing the lights!