There are moments in life that remind us why photography is so much more than just taking pictures – it's about preserving the most precious memories that families will treasure forever. Recently, I had the incredible honor of documenting an adoption hearing right here in Macomb County, and WOW, what an amazing day!

The Power of Forever Families

As someone who's been a foster parent for teenage girls through Macomb County DHHS for many years, I've witnessed firsthand the incredible resilience of children in foster care and the transformative power of love and commitment. Every adoption represents hope, healing, and the beautiful truth that families are built on love – not just biology.

This particular family's journey to their forever moment was absolutely incredible to witness! The excitement, the pride beaming from the parents, and that official moment when the judge made it all legal – pure magic! These are the moments that remind us why foster care and adoption are so incredibly important.

Why Document These Milestone Moments

Adoption day is one of the most significant days in a family's life. It's the day when "foster" becomes "forever," when legal papers transform into unbreakable bonds, and when a house truly becomes a home. These families have often been through so much to get to this moment, and having professional documentation of this milestone is absolutely priceless!

Supporting Our Foster Care Community

Here in Macomb County, we're so fortunate to have incredible resources for foster families. The new Macomb County Foster Closet right here in Mount Clemens is doing amazing work supporting families throughout their foster care journey. Organizations like Love for a Child continue to provide vital support for children of trauma and the families who care for them.

As a photographer, I have a unique opportunity to give back to this community. Whether it's documenting these milestone moments, participating in charity events, or simply spreading awareness about the need for more foster families (especially for teenagers!), I can use my skills to make a real difference.

The Need is Real

Can I be real with you for a moment? We desperately need more foster families, particularly for teenagers. These kids are often the most overlooked, but they have SO much to offer and deserve loving, stable homes just as much as younger children. If you've ever considered fostering, please reach out to Macomb County DHHS – these kids need you!

Celebrating Every Family

At Capture a Moment Photography, we believe that every family deserves to have their story told beautifully, regardless of how that family was formed. Whether it's biological families, blended families, adoptive families, or foster families – love is love, and family is family!

This adoption day session reminded me once again why I'm so passionate about both photography and foster care advocacy. Being able to document these life-changing moments while also supporting our local foster care community is truly the best of both worlds.

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Congratulations to this beautiful family on their adoption day! May your home be filled with endless love, laughter, and joy as you continue your journey together.

Let's be honest: Your phone's camera roll is basically a digital graveyard where good memories go to die. You've got 47 nearly identical shots of your kid's soccer goal, 23 blurry attempts at that perfect sunset, and somewhere in there—buried deeper than your high school yearbook—are the photos that actually matter.

Sound familiar? Yeah, we thought so.

Confession Time: We're All Digital Hoarders

Raise your hand if you've ever said "I'll print those later" and then... didn't.

We can't see you, but we're pretty sure every hand just went up.

Here's the thing: We're living in the golden age of taking photos and the dark age of actually enjoying them. We snap, we store, we scroll, we forget. Rinse and repeat until our phones are basically expensive storage units for memories we never revisit.

It's like having a closet full of gorgeous clothes that you never wear because they're buried under a pile of "I'll deal with this later."

Spoiler alert: Later never comes.

Plot Twist: Your Walls Are Lonely

While your phone is bursting with family memories, your walls are over there like, "Hello? Remember us? We're just hanging out here with that generic 'Live, Laugh, Love' sign you bought at Target in 2019."

Your walls are prime real estate, people! And right now, they're telling the story of someone who shops the clearance aisle at HomeGoods instead of someone who creates beautiful, meaningful memories with the people they love most.

We can do better. Your walls deserve better. You deserve better.

The Science of "Holy Cow, That's My Kid!"

Here's what happens when you actually print and display your photos:

1. The Daily Dose of Joy Effect: Every time you walk past that gorgeous 20x20" canvas of your family, your brain gets a little hit of happiness. It's like a daily vitamin, but for your soul.
2. The "My Kid is Amazing" Phenomenon: When your teenager sees their senior portrait displayed prominently in your home, they get a daily reminder that they matter. (Trust us, teenagers need all the confidence boosts they can get.)
3. The Conversation Starter Magic: Guests don't comment on your phone's camera roll. But they absolutely will stop and gush over that stunning family portrait above your fireplace.
4. The Legacy Factor: Your great-grandkids won't inherit your iCloud account. But they might inherit that beautiful family portrait that's been hanging in your hallway for decades.

Size Matters (And We're Not Sorry for Saying It)

Let's talk about size for a hot minute. That 4x6" print you're thinking about? That's adorable. It's also going to get lost faster than your car keys.

Go big or go home. Literally.

Your family isn't a wallet-sized afterthought. Your memories aren't meant to be tucked away in a corner where nobody notices them. They're meant to be celebrated, displayed, and impossible to ignore.

When someone walks into your home, your family photos should basically shout, "LOOK AT HOW MUCH LOVE LIVES HERE!"

The "But I Can Just Look at Them on My Phone" Myth

Oh, honey. No.

Looking at photos on your phone is like trying to appreciate the Mona Lisa on a postage stamp. Sure, you can see it, but you're missing all the magic.

Phone photos are fast food. Wall art is a five-course meal.

One satisfies you for about 30 seconds. The other nourishes your soul every single day.

Investment or Expense? (Hint: It's Not What You Think)

Yes, professional wall art costs more than drugstore prints. You know what else costs more? A good mattress, quality shoes, and decent coffee.

Some things are worth investing in because they improve your daily life.

Every morning when you see that stunning portrait of your family, you're reminded of what you're working so hard for. Every evening when you come home to walls filled with love, you remember what really matters.

That's not an expense. That's an investment in daily joy.

The Boutique Difference: We're Not Your Average Photo Factory

Here at Capture a Moment Photography, we don't do "good enough." We don't do "that'll work." We do "OMG, is that really us?!"

We're not interested in filling up your phone with more digital clutter. We're interested in creating stunning wall art that makes your house feel like the most love-filled place on earth.

Because your family isn't average, and your photos shouldn't be either.

Your Walls Are Waiting for Their Glow-Up

Right now, your most beautiful family moments are trapped in digital jail, serving a life sentence of being scrolled past and forgotten.

It's time for a jailbreak.

Your memories deserve parole. They deserve to be seen, celebrated, and loved every single day. They deserve to transform your house from "just a place you live" to "the place where love lives."

So here's our challenge: Stop treating your most precious memories like digital prisoners. Give them the freedom—and the wall space—they deserve.

Because life's too short for boring walls and buried memories.

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Ready to give your memories the glow-up they deserve? Let's chat about turning your favorite moments into stunning wall art that'll make your heart happy every single day.

Senior year is here - time to celebrate! And what better way to mark this amazing milestone than with portraits that actually capture the real YOU? As your luxury senior photographer serving the Metro Detroit tri-county area from my cozy Mount Clemens studio, I've scouted some absolutely gorgeous spots that'll make your friends say "Wait, where did you take THOSE?!"

My Favorite Senior Portrait Hotspots

• Belle Isle - This Detroit treasure is like having multiple photo shoots in one! Want dreamy conservatory vibes? Check. Stunning waterfront shots? Double check. We can literally go from botanical garden princess to lakeside adventurer without even moving the car. It's like location magic!
• Eastern Market - Calling all urban explorers and mural lovers! This spot is pure Instagram gold with its incredible street art and historic brick charm. If you're the type who gravitates toward colorful, edgy vibes, Eastern Market will have you feeling like the main character in your own music video.
• Downtown Mount Clemens - My literal backyard, and I never get tired of it! This charming downtown has that perfect "small town with big personality" feel. Plus, when fall rolls around and those leaves start changing? Chef's kiss - pure magic!
• George George Park - For my nature-loving seniors who prefer trees over traffic, this local gem delivers all the peaceful, natural beauty your heart desires. Think golden hour dreams and that perfect "I'm contemplating my bright future" vibe.

The Fun, Quirky Spots

Here's where we get creative! Love vinyl records? Let's hit up a local record shop. Bookworm at heart? The library makes for some seriously cool, intellectual vibes. And don't even get me started on garden nurseries - all that lush greenery and natural light? Yes, please!

The Best Part? I Handle the Boring Stuff

Location permits are included in your $349 senior session because honestly, who has time for paperwork when you're busy being fabulous? I've got all the logistics covered so you can focus on the fun part - being yourself!

We'll Travel for the Perfect Shot

From our Mount Clemens home base, we adventure throughout Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties. Whether you're a city kid, nature lover, or somewhere wonderfully in between, we'll find YOUR perfect backdrop.

Want to see examples of portraits at these locations? Check out our senior portrait gallery or contact us to discuss which spots would be perfect for your session.

Capturing the Drama: Theater Student Samantha's Unique Senior Photography Session at Belle Isle Park

There's something truly magical about capturing the essence of a high school senior, especially when that senior is a talented theater student like Samantha from the Class of 2025. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing her unique senior photography session at the stunning Belle Isle Park and the vibrant Eastern Market. As we explored these iconic Detroit locations, Samantha’s love for drama and performance shone through, adding a theatrical flair to every shot. From the lush greenery of the Conservatory to the colorful murals of Eastern Market, each backdrop perfectly highlighted Samantha's dynamic personality. Join me as we delve into Samantha's story and discover how a senior photography session can become a treasured piece of art that celebrates this pivotal moment in a young person’s life.

Capturing Unique Theater Student Portraits

Samantha's senior photography session was not just about taking pictures; it was about capturing the essence of a theater student in the Class of 2025. This session offered a mix of nature and urban art, creating unique theater student portraits that resonated with her passion for drama. Let's explore how the different locations played a role in this captivating photoshoot experience.

Belle Isle Park Photoshoot Experience

Belle Isle Park, with its expansive landscapes, provided a serene setting for Samantha's photoshoot. As a sanctuary in the bustling city, it offered breathtaking views that perfectly matched the drama and elegance of theater.

The session began at the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, known for its lush greenery and diverse plant life. This location added a natural charm to Samantha’s portraits, reflecting her dramatic flair against a backdrop of botanical beauty.

Samantha’s expressions were beautifully highlighted by the natural light filtering through the Conservatory's glass. This location allowed her theatrical personality to shine, creating images that were both vibrant and full of life.

Belle Isle offered an open space that encouraged creativity and spontaneity, vital for capturing authentic moments. The tranquility of the park complemented Samantha's artistic spirit, making each photograph a piece of art.

Eastern Market's Vibrant Backdrop

The shift from nature to the urban vibrancy of Eastern Market added a new dimension to the session. Known for its colorful murals and bustling atmosphere, it provided a lively backdrop that complemented Samantha's theatrical persona.

The market's energy was infectious, and Samantha used it to her advantage, posing against murals that celebrated Detroit’s rich cultural tapestry. Her theatrical background was emphasized by the bold, colorful artwork, creating dramatic contrasts in every shot.

Each mural offered a unique backdrop that allowed Samantha to showcase different facets of her personality, making the session diverse and captivating. The vibrant colors and artistic expressions of Eastern Market enhanced the theatrical theme of the portraits.

In this urban setting, the fusion of art and performance was seamless, resulting in photographs that were not just images but stories. Capture A Moment Photography ensured that each shot at Eastern Market was a reflection of Samantha’s unique journey as a theater student.

These varied locations, from the natural beauty of Belle Isle to the vibrant energy of Eastern Market, created a memorable senior photography session that truly celebrated Samantha's passion for drama and performance.

Capturing the essence of a high school senior's journey is always a thrilling experience, and Kolin's session was no exception. As a now 2025 graduate from Cousino High School, Kolin's spirit shone brightly against the vibrant backdrops of Belle Isle and Eastern Market. We kicked off the adventure at Third Man Records, where the unique ambiance added a dash of creativity to the senior session photos. Kolin's energy was infectious, making each moment behind the lens a delightful collaboration. Thank you, Kolin, for choosing Capture a Moment to immortalize this pivotal chapter, and to all seniors and families out there, let's chat about how we can make your photo session just as unforgettable!

Capturing Kolin's Senior Year

As a photographer, there's nothing quite like documenting the journey of a high school senior. Kolin's session was a perfect blend of personality, creativity, and milestone moments. Let's dive into the highlights of this unforgettable photoshoot.

Thank You, Kolin

Kolin, your energy and enthusiasm made this senior photography session truly special. Your willingness to explore and try new poses brought a unique flair to every shot.

Your confidence in front of the camera was inspiring. It's clear that you're ready to take on the world as you approach graduation.

Thank you for trusting Capture a Moment with this important milestone. Your session will always stand out as a highlight in my portfolio.

High School Graduate Journey

Documenting the transition from high school to the next chapter of life is a privilege. Kolin's journey as a 2025 graduate from Cousino High School is a testament to years of hard work and growth.

These senior session photos aren't just images; they're a time capsule of achievements, friendships, and dreams for the future.

As Kolin steps into this new phase, these photographs will serve as a reminder of where the journey began and the potential that lies ahead.

Senior Photography Magic

There's something magical about senior photography. It's not just about capturing a face; it's about capturing a moment in time, a personality, and the cusp of adulthood.

With Kolin, we focused on creating images that reflect his unique spirit. From casual poses to more formal shots, each photo tells a part of his story.

The magic lies in the details - the genuine smile, the confident stance, the glimmer of excitement for the future. These are the elements that make senior photography truly special.

Iconic Locations for Senior Photos

Choosing the right locations can make all the difference in senior photography. For Kolin's session, we explored some of Detroit's most iconic spots, each adding its own flavor to the photos.

Belle Isle Adventure

Belle Isle provided a stunning natural backdrop for Kolin's senior photos. The park's diverse landscapes offered a range of settings, from lush greenery to waterfront views.

We captured Kolin's adventurous spirit as he explored the island. The James Scott Memorial Fountain served as a majestic backdrop, adding a touch of grandeur to the shots.

The natural light on Belle Isle was perfect for highlighting Kolin's features and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in the photos.

Eastern Market Moments

Eastern Market brought a vibrant, urban edge to Kolin's senior session. The colorful murals and bustling atmosphere provided a perfect contrast to the natural settings of Belle Isle.

We took advantage of the market's unique architecture, using doorways and alleyways to frame Kolin in interesting ways. The result was a set of photos that capture both Kolin's personality and the spirit of Detroit.

The energy of Eastern Market matched Kolin's own enthusiasm, creating dynamic and lively shots that truly stand out.

Third Man Records Vibe

Our session kicked off at Third Man Records, adding a cool, musical vibe to Kolin's senior photos. The unique aesthetics of this iconic record store provided a perfect backdrop for showcasing Kolin's creative side.

The bold yellow and black color scheme of Third Man Records created striking visuals, making Kolin stand out in every shot. We played with different poses and angles to capture the essence of this music-lover's paradise.

These photos at Third Man Records aren't just senior portraits; they're a nod to Detroit's rich musical heritage and Kolin's own passion for music.

Creating Your Unique Session

Every senior deserves a photography session that's as unique as they are. At Capture a Moment, we're committed to creating a personalized experience that reflects each senior's individuality.

How to Get Started

Getting started with your senior photography session is easy and exciting. Here's a simple process to kick things off:

1. Reach out to Capture a Moment to schedule a consultation.
2. During the consultation, we'll discuss your vision, preferred locations, and any special requests.
3. Choose a date and time that works best for you.
4. Start planning your outfits and props that showcase your personality.
5. On the day of the shoot, relax and have fun!

Remember, the key to great senior photos is being yourself and enjoying the experience.

Personalizing Your Experience

Your senior photography session should be a reflection of who you are. We encourage you to bring elements that showcase your interests, hobbies, and achievements.

Whether it's a musical instrument, sports equipment, or artwork, these personal touches add depth to your photos. We'll work with you to incorporate these elements seamlessly into your shots.

Don't be afraid to suggest locations that are meaningful to you. Your favorite coffee shop, the park where you spend time with friends, or your school's campus can all make great backdrops for your senior photos.

Capture a Moment's Promise

At Capture a Moment, we promise to deliver more than just photos. We're committed to creating an experience that you'll cherish as much as the images themselves.

Our goal is to capture your authentic self, celebrating your achievements and the exciting journey ahead. We'll work tirelessly to ensure that your senior photos exceed your expectations.

We promise open communication, creativity, and a fun, relaxed atmosphere during your session. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and we're not happy until you're thrilled with your senior photos.

Capture the Magic: Family Photography Tips for Picture-Perfect Memories

Capturing the essence of family moments through photography is like bottling up magic to cherish for years to come. As families prepare for their first photography session, the anticipation is often mixed with questions about everything from what to wear for family photos to the best time for family photos. This guide aims to ease those jitters with family photography tips that will not only help you feel at ease but also ensure you have picture-perfect memories to treasure. We'll walk you through  preparing kids for a photo shoot and choosing a photography location that complements your family's unique vibe. Together, we'll uncover the charm of natural lighting photography to make your family's joy shine through each frame.

Preparing for Picture-Perfect Moments

Getting ready for your family photo session is an exciting adventure. Let's dive into the essentials of what to wear and how to prepare your little ones for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

What to Wear for Family Photos

Choosing the right outfits can make a world of difference in your family photos. The goal is to look coordinated without being too matchy-matchy.

Start by selecting a color palette that complements your home decor or the location of your shoot. This ensures your photos will look great when displayed.

Consider textures and layers to add visual interest. Mixing solids with subtle patterns can create depth without overwhelming the frame.

Comfort is key, especially for kids. Choose clothes that allow everyone to move freely and feel like themselves. This natural comfort will shine through in your photos.

Preparing Kids for Photo Shoot

Getting kids ready for a photo shoot can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can also be fun and exciting.

Start by talking to your children about the photo session well in advance. Explain what will happen and why it's special. This helps build anticipation rather than anxiety.

On the day of the shoot, ensure everyone is well-rested and fed. A hungry or tired child is rarely a cooperative one.

Bring along favorite toys or snacks as incentives. These can be great for quick breaks or to capture genuine smiles.

Remember, the goal is to capture your family's personality. Encourage kids to be themselves and have fun. The most cherished photos are often the ones full of laughter and natural expressions.

Timing and Lighting Essentials

The magic of a great family photo often lies in the details of timing and lighting. Let's explore how to harness these elements for stunning results.

Best Time for Family Photos

Timing is crucial when it comes to capturing those perfect family moments. The right time of day can make all the difference in the quality of your photos.

The "golden hour," just after sunrise or before sunset, offers soft, warm light that flatters everyone. This magical time creates a dreamy atmosphere for your photos.

For outdoor shoots, avoid midday sun which can create harsh shadows and squinting. Early morning or late afternoon sessions are ideal for natural, even lighting.

Consider your family's schedule too. Choose a time when everyone, especially little ones, is typically in good spirits. A well-timed session leads to more natural smiles and less stress.

Seasonal considerations can add a special touch. Spring blossoms, autumn leaves, or winter snow can provide stunning backdrops for your family memories.

Choosing the Perfect Backdrop

The setting of your family photos plays a crucial role in telling your unique story. Let's explore how to select and create the ideal backdrop for your memories.

Choosing Photography Location

Selecting the right location for your family photo session can elevate your images from good to unforgettable.

Consider locations that hold special meaning for your family. A favorite park, your backyard, or a beloved vacation spot can add personal significance to your photos.

Think about the mood you want to convey. A beach setting can create a relaxed, carefree vibe, while an urban backdrop might reflect a more modern, dynamic family style.

Practicality matters too. Choose a location that's easily accessible and comfortable for all family members, especially if you have young children or elderly relatives.

Don't forget we do  check if you need permits for certain locations, and secure them as part of your session fee. We also have great location suggestions based on our experience and this is something we will discuss during your complimentary consultation.

Announcing: Detroit Boudoir photography!

As female entrepreneurs, we decided it was time to create a brand to empower Metro Detroit women via luxury boudoir photography. Our mission is simple: Let us make you feel amazing.

With years of experience photographing women of all shapes and sizes, we know how to help you look and feel your best. In today’s culture, definitions of beauty can be extremely limiting, and that plays hugely into how women perceive their own value. Well, we’re here to show you exactly what beauty looks like—and it looks like YOU! So grab that perfect lingerie and some sexy heels and get ready to feel incredible!

Detroit Boudoir is the brainchild of Capture a Moment Photography, born out of our desire to help women recognize just how pretty and powerful they are. It’s a luxury boudoir experience designed to empower women, because we believe every woman has a story worth telling. Our team of creative female professional are passionate about helping you create beautiful images to capture their unique story—images that will last a lifetime.

Whether these intimate photos will be a gift for that special someone or for your eyes only, we’d love to help you celebrate your body and your beauty with a fun and glamorous photoshoot. Schedule your complimentary phone consultation today and let us help you capture your most confident self!

Detroit Boudoir Photography Contact Details

Our website is www.DetroitBoudoir.com We’re still working on getting it all set up, but don’t let that stop you! We are scheduling sessions and are happy to take your booking over the phone—or you can simply specify your session type in our contact form.

Phone number: (586) 619-8484

Detroit Boudoir will be operating out of the same location as Capture a Moment Photography, at 50 Cherry Street in Mount Clemens, Michigan (48043).

Voting for Pooch Playoffs is happening now!

If you missed our earlier announcement, here’s the rundown:

• Two days of pet mini sessions to record those furry faces
• A bracket-style competition, with lots of chances to win fun prizes (now through April 4^th!)
• Final Four winners receive gifts from local pet-friendly businesses
• The winner receive a 3-month subscription to BULLYMAKE's awesome pet subscription box, plus they get to select their favorite animal-related charity to receive 10% of all proceeds from this fun event

Pet Photo Shoots

At the beginning of the month, we had so much fun holding pet mini sessions at our downtown Mt. Clemens photo studio. Are these not some of the best mutt mugs you’ve ever seen? All participants received a pooch-friendly photoshoot where their beloved pet was the star of the show, a metal print of their beloved pet, and a sweet baked treat from Clementines Pastry Shop. (And we didn’t get off too badly either, with all those snuggles and kisses!)

Time to Vote!

Now that we’ve captured these fetching faces, it’s time to unleash this year’s Pooch Playoffs! All of these handsome hounds have been entered into a bracket-style competition, and it’s up to you to decide which one is the Ulti-Mutt Canine Cutie. From now until April 4^th, you’ll have the chance to cast your vote in the day’s poll and help decide which is the cutest doggo.

Who Will Be Top Pup This Year?

There are chances throughout the Pooch Playoffs to win lots of fun prizes. Winners of the Final Four will receive gifts from local pet-friendly businesses. And at the end of the competition, the winner will be able to select their favorite animal-related charity to receive 10% of all event proceeds.

Good clean fun, photos of the cutest pets in town, and the chance to help animals in need. Doggone it, what could be better?

We can’t wait to see the votes roll in and find out who is top dog for 2023! Click here to see today’s furry faceoff and cast your vote!

Easter Mini Sessions are back for 2023! This has become an annual tradition for Capture a Moment Photography and our clients (check out last year’s minis here), and we know from past experience that these photoshoots book up fast. So hop to it and reserve your spot before they’re gone!

What makes our Easter mini sessions so popular?

These spring-themed sessions are designed to give you more than just snapshots. Your finished portraits are perfect to display in your home or give as gifts to your loved ones. Every year, we design a brand-new set so you can have original photos with every new spring.

The experience we offer is the real deal. No costumed, fake Easter bunnies here! Our special guest is a genuine Easter bunny—as cute as they come, and awesome in front of the camera.

If you’ve worked with us before, you know that we pride ourselves on creating a family-friendly experience that is relaxed and hassle-free. You can sit back and enjoy the experience while we handle the poses, the props, and the smiles.

This limited portrait event on April 1^st includes:

• 20-minute studio session and visit with a real live Easter bunny
• Variety of photos to choose from
• Option to purchase additional fine art portraits and products to give as gifts or display in your home
• Price: Just $99 per session

This exclusive photography event at our storefront studio in Mt. Clemens is one-day only (on April 1^st) and has a limited number of appointments, so book early! If you have questions, please give us a call at 586-646-8189 and we’ll be more than happy to answer them. We’re so egg-cited to see you and welcome spring with these family-oriented Easter portrait sessions!

Want to be the first to hear about awesome photo events like these? Stay up-to-date with Capture a Moment Photography on our Facebook page. 

Do you have high school senior graduating this year? Now is the perfect time to get your grad the sign or celebratory banner they deserve. It’s an extra special way to show them how proud you are of their accomplishment, and the perfect purchase to round off your high school senior session as you get ready for the big day!

It’s just $30 for a double-sided, custom sign for your graduate. Each sign features a photo from your session, and we can customize it with your senior’s name, school name, and school crest or logo.

In addition to senior grad signs, we offer all the products you need for this important time in your high school senior’s life. Such as:

Custom invitations and thank you’s for graduation. Let others know about this great achievement, or thank them for their participation in the journey with beautiful, customized announcements designed just for you.

Graduation gifts for friends and family. Grandparents, influential teachers, and other special people in your senior’s life would love to have a personalized gift as a token of appreciation. In addition to framed photos and prints, we offer popular gift options such as acrylic blocks, cubes, or mounted images with a wooden stand so that you can give senior portraits as meaningful gifts.

Keepsakes

The same types of products that make great gifts are also perfect for creating special keepsakes for your grad to hang on to as well. Commemorate the occasion by giving them a photo they can display in their dorm room or apartment—a way to remember their roots even as they embrace their independence and chase their dreams!

Get in touch and let’s book your senior session or order your graduation signs and products so you can celebrate your grad the way they deserve! Email, text, or call to order. 

Another senior session at our gorgeous river access spot! We had photographed Bella’s sister, Rose, in preparation for her graduation in years prior at Belle Isle and Eastern Market, but Bella wanted to do a more natural background for her senior photos. Since it was autumn, we suggested one of our favorite locales near the river.

We love this secret spot because it’s so quiet and peaceful—the perfect spot to just relax and enjoy your session! While we’ve photographed here in all seasons, the deciduous trees make it especially gorgeous in the fall (which is also a great time to book your senior session as you get ready for graduation in the spring of the following year).

In keeping with the natural vibe of the location, Bella picked out a couple of casual outfits and steered clear of formal wear for her pictures. This is totally fine! We want you to feel comfortable during your senior photoshoot, and we also want the finished photos to reflect your personality. While a lot of teens will pick out two or three outfits that have a mix between formal, casual, and sport to reflect different aspects of their personalities and give variety to their photos, there’s nothing that says you have to do that. Bella gave her outfits variety by choosing contrasting colors—all of which worked great with our background. We love that this graduating senior owned and rocked her sense of style!

Congratulations, Bella, on your upcoming graduation! We can’t wait to see where life takes you next.

If you’re looking for a senior photo experience that goes way beyond yearbook photos, you’re in the right place! Ang and Jen focus on providing a fun and memorable experience, beautiful photos that reflect the unique and amazing person you are, and artwork you can treasure forever.Contact us to learn more!

Have we mentioned that we love working with high school seniors? Seriously, teens are the best! And it’s even more fun to do photos with them when we already know each other. We’ve known Doyle and his family for years and have done family photos for them in the past. It was great to see Doyle again for a photo session of his own and we loved creating these graduation photos with him.

We started out at St. Andrews Hall in Detroit. Doyle likes to come here for concerts, and his mom told me she and her husband also frequented it when they were dating. So, a little family history as well as a fun spot for pictures! Love it when we can use places that are meaningful to the person we’re photographing! If you have a favorite spot, let us know and we’ll see if we can incorporate it! And if you need a few ideas, check out our list of popular places for photoshoots here.

We hit a few other places downtown too, including the Gucci storefront (because, as you can see, this kid’s got style!) and the Z Lot. And if it seems weird to you to take graduation photos at a parking garage, then we’ll just have to tell you to head over to the Z and take a look at all the great street art there!

Congratulations, Doyle, on your upcoming graduation! So good to see you again, and excited to see what this next chapter of life holds.

If you’re looking for graduation photos that are meant for more than just the yearbook, please get in touch. We’d love to help you document this milestone with artwork you can be proud to display on your walls and pass on to the people who matter most in your life. 

Trying to distract ourselves from the blast of winter going on outside, we flash back to Mia's first birthday shoot.  That year went by so quick. We just can't believe it? One of the things you have to get used to as a photographer (but never really do) is how quickly time flies. When you photograph kids as teenagers that you first saw in the studio as toddlers, it’s a reminder of just how fast things change, and how important it is to document life’s special moments and milestones. Don’t let those precious memories get away from you!

We photographed Mia as a newborn, but our relationship with her family goes even further back than that. She is the granddaughter of a good friend, and we also did her parents’ (Madeline and Jacob’s) engagement photos on Belle Isle as well as their wedding photos. So yes, we definitely have a soft spot for this little birthday girl.

This family actually lives in New York, so it’s really exciting when we get to see them. It’s not every New Yorker that would make a trip to Michigan for family photos! This time around, because they had to head back home before their photos were edited, we did their print selection session via Zoom. That was a first for us, and a definite learning curve! While it wasn’t as smooth as would have liked, we were so glad it ended up working and that we could continue capturing memories for this special family.

Mia did such a great job for her first birthday portraits. She’s such a cutie with those chubby cheeks and rolls! We also made sure to get some updated family photos too, which turned out great.

As our name implies, capturing special moments is what we do! If you’re celebrating a special milestone, or if it’s just been a while since you invested in professional photos of your family, please get in touch with us. Kiddos grow and change so fast, but photos are one way you can hold on to special memories forever. We would love to help you do exactly that.

We are pawsitively thrilled to announce this year’s annual Pooch Playoffs sessions, a competition for the Ulti-mutt Canine Cutie!

Your Session

Your $99 session fee covers even more than a 30-minute pet photoshoot with your adorable pooch. All participants will also receive a 5x7 metal print of their beloved pet, plus a goodie bag of fun treats. (Additional prints are available for purchase if you need more amazing pet pics!)

Prizes and Winning

After the shoot, we’ll enter your pet into a bracket-style competition. Each step of the contest, your pet will be matched up with another pooch to be voted the Ulti-mutt Cutie! There are chances throughout the Pooch Playoffs to win lots of fun prizes. Winners of the Final Four will receive gifts from local pet-friendly businesses. And at the end of the competition, the winner will be able to select their favorite animal-related charity to receive 10% of all event proceeds.

Good clean fun, a professional photo of your pet, and the chance to help animals in need. Doggone it, what could be better?

Book Your Session for the 2023 Pooch Playoffs!

The pupparazzi are ready! Pet mini sessions for the Pooch Playoffs will be held at our pet-friendly storefront studio at 50 Cherry Street in Mount Clemens, MI starting on March 4^th and 5^th and will continue during the remainder of the month. Yep, that’s coming right up, so don’t paws. Book your session today!  Questions? Give us a call at 586-646-8189. We can’t wait to see you and your pooch in the studio!

Have we mentioned that we love senior photoshoots? Spending time with these young people is so much fun! We love getting to know them so we can show off their personalities in their senior pictures, and are constantly inspired by their ambitions and plans for the future.

This senior photoshoot with Kaylee was a blast! She is getting ready to graduate from L’Anse Creuse High School this year, and chose to do her graduation portraits during the fall of 2022, at the very beginning of her senior year. This is a great way to do it, as it gives you plenty of time to get your shoot finished; design gifts, announcements, and other artwork; and get those products finished and delivered well before the big day. Plus, autumn in Michigan is beautiful! (Spring of your senior year is also a great time for pictures, and that’s coming right up. If your child is getting ready to graduate this year, don’t wait. Get in touch and book their senior photoshoot now!)

We did Kaylee’s shoot at one of our favorite spots: a secret river access point that has absolutely gorgeous foliage, water, the bridge—you name it! She chose some cozy casual outfits and we had a great time exploring.

We are all about personalizing your senior photoshoot too. Whether it’s outfits, props, location—we want your graduation pictures to be YOU all over. If there’s something you want to include or highlight in your shoot, just let us know! One of the things that is an important part of Kaylee’s life right now? Her wheels! No matter what age you are, a car means freedom. We were more than happy to include Kaylee’s ride as part of her senior photoshoot. (Wish we’d been driving anything that cool as teenagers.)

Congratulations, Kaylee, and all the best on your next big adventure!

It isn’t easy being a tween right now. Adolescent development AND coming out of the COVID pandemic! Not only are they going through changes in themselves that are difficult to process, they are living in a time filled with uncertainty and change. These challenges are very real. 

Angela Bilen and Jen Dera are the owners of Capture A Moment Photography in Mount Clemens. As the mothers of tweens/teens and with their main clientele being senior grads and families with children, they’ve witnessed firsthand what youth are going through. Knowing they are the most underserved when it comes to professional photography, Jen and Angela set out to design a photo event for charity that is not only fun but also celebrates who tweens are today. 

The "I Am Me" photo event celebrates who today’s youth are at their age. Whether their interest is dance, soccer, artwork, books, music, gaming or just being themselves, this event is a self-esteem boost and some much needed attention for them.  On February 20th, Capture A Moment Photography is hosting ‘I Am Me’, a Charity Photography Event, focused on creating empowering portraits while also supporting the LOVE for A Child non-profit. Each session fee is donated to this amazing foster group. The ‘I Am Me’ event is designed to gush over our teen/tween youth doing what they love while having a great time, filled with laughter and smiles.  

Capture A Moment Photography will be both donating all proceeds from each ‘I Am Me’ session to Love for a Child and gifting each tween/teen a treasured Art Piece to remind them every day that they too are AMAZING.  Love for a child is a faith focused, 501c3, non-profit organization that serves children, youth, and families currently active within Michigan’s foster care system.  Founded in 2012, the program focuses on impacting children of trauma, who have experienced different forms of abuse, abandonment and neglect.  Love for a Child has created and facilitates overnight camps, mentorship opportunities for children and youth, as well as tailored resources for foster families to meet the specific needs within their care. 

To learn more or to sign up, call 586-646-8189 or click this link:  https://iamme.youcanbook.me/

Another fantastic high school senior photo session! Blake is graduating later this year from L’Anse Creuse High School and currently plays football and baseball there, so we knew we wanted to use the athletic fields to show off his sports prowess. Part of what makes our sessions so popular for seniors is that we like to focus on what makes them unique. During a senior session, we love highlighting their interests, visiting their favorite places, and incorporating meaningful objects or backgrounds. Yes, we’ll do more traditional “headshot-style” portraits for the senior yearbook, but a lot of times the real fun happens outside the studio as we capture images that are totally personalized.

After some time on the athletic fields we moved to downtown Mount Clemens and used the old train depot as a backdrop. (The depot is listed in the National Registry of Historic Places. It just happens to be where a young Thomas Edison learned telegraphy, and it also makes such a cool spot for photos.)

We wrapped up Blake’s senior photo session in Harrison Township along Lake St. Clair. Another beautiful backdrop with a completely different vibe. We love adding some variety to our shoots and can definitely accommodate multiple locations, outfit changes, etc. After all, people are multifaceted, and different looks and locales can highlight different parts of your personality and interests. And we’re all about highlighting YOU!

Super excited for this milestone in Blake’s life, and we wish him all the best in the coming year!

Interested in a graduation portrait session? We love working with high school seniors and would be honored to help you celebrate your achievement. Contact us for more information, and we’ll help you plan a senior photo session to create images you can treasure forever.

Happy New Year, everyone! We hope it’s off to a great start for all of you and that the year has wonderful adventures in store. We know lots of seniors who are embarking on a big adventure very soon! Graduation is feeling even closer for the graduating classes of 2023 now that we’re in the same calendar year that they’ll be saying goodbye to high school and moving on to bigger, better things.

We had such a great time doing Bryce’s senior photoshoot. We divided our time between Comerica Park and Belle Isle, both of which provided such great backdrops for his portraits. He’s graduating this year from DeLaSalle High School and we’re so excited for him!

To be honest, Bryce wasn’t really all that into the idea of senior photos initially. But his mom wanted to commemorate the occasion, and like a wonderful son, he really wanted to make his mom happy. As it turns out though, Bryce ended up enjoying himself and we got some great photos! He’s not the first high school senior to feel a little reluctant about posing in front of a camera—not to mention all those outfit changes. But wanting to create a great session experience for graduating seniors is one of the reasons we started our photography business. Graduation is a big deal. It’s special, and these amazing teenagers deserve a session that reflects that—and makes them feel great! We’re so glad Bryce was a good sport for his mom and that we were able to make this a fun and memorable experience for him.

Congratulations, Bryce, on your upcoming graduation! We loved getting to know you and helping you capture this important time in your life. You’re going to be fantastic at whatever you choose to do!

Have a senior graduating in 2023? We'd love to create an unforgettable portrait experience to celebrate and capture that milestone! Contact us for details.