Our favorite place near Traverse City to soak in the golden hour

If you ever find yourself near Traverse City, MI, do yourself a favor and head a little west to Empire. Tucked along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, this charming town is home to one of the most breathtaking sunset views in the state.

Why Empire is Always Worth the Drive | Lake Michigan Sunsets

Whether it's your first visit or your tenth, Empire never disappoints. Even though it's a known gem and can draw a bit of a crowd, there’s something peaceful about standing on the sand as the sky transforms in front of you. It’s wide open. Unobstructed. A front-row seat to the beauty of creation.

This is the kind of place where you pause. Where kids run barefoot through the dunes, couples settle in on blankets, and everyone—just for a moment—falls quiet as the sky glows with streaks of orange, pink, lavender, and gold.

The Magic of Sunset Photography and Silhouettes

Sunset sessions are hands down my favorite to photograph. There's a certain energy as the light begins to soften and the air cools just a bit. Silhouettes become more defined, movement feels poetic, and the emotion of the moment becomes the centerpiece of every image.

I don’t force poses or rush moments. I simply tag along and capture what unfolds naturally—families laughing, little ones twirling in the sand, a couple sharing a quiet look as the sun dips low.

It’s honest, it's relaxed, and it's uniquely you.

A Unique Photo Experience Up North

If you’re vacationing near Empire or Traverse City and want to remember your time here more meaningfully than just a quick photo on your phone, let’s connect. These kinds of evenings deserve to be remembered—how the light looked, how it felt, and how much love surrounded you.

This is more than just photography. It’s your story—framed by the most beautiful sunset Michigan offers.

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Kelseycharmayne Photography

Helping families and individuals create beautiful heirloom artwork for their homes through relaxed, candid, and accurate visual storytelling.

www.kelseycharmayne.com

📞 734-521-7435

📧 Kelsey@kelseycharmayne.com