Ann Arbor Family Photographer — Outdoor & Studio Family Portrait Photography in Ann Arbor, MI

The Aperture Difference

Why Ann Arbor families trust Aperture.

We believe family photography should feel like an enjoyable afternoon out, not an exhausting chore. Here is how we make your session effortless, authentic, and fun.

Father carrying toddler on shoulders laughing in Ann Arbor park
Zero Stress

Kid-Led & Relaxed Pacing

We never demand that kids stand still or give rigid smiles. We let toddlers explore, climb, laugh, and take snack breaks. Real smiles and authentic family interactions happen when everyone is having fun.

Family touching foreheads affectionately on historic brick stairs outdoors
Local Roots

Native Park & Light Mastery

We know the quietest trail loops at Nichols Arboretum, the best golden hour light along the Huron River, and where little feet can wander safely without park crowds getting in the frame.

Father and young child dipping their feet in lake water surrounded by greenery
Archival Color

Natural, Timeless Artistry

We calibrate colors to look vibrant, clean, and true-to-life—so your wall portraits and family albums will look just as stunning thirty years from now as they do today. Full printing rights included.

Local Expertise • Top Ann Arbor Parks

Favorite Ann Arbor backdrops for family stories.

From sweeping river trails and wildflower meadows to historic wooden mills and cozy living rooms, these iconic local backdrops set the perfect stage.

Family lying on grass in park smiling together
Iconic Landmark

Nichols Arboretum & Peony Garden

Expansive open lawns, towering heritage pines, scenic river overlooks, and the historic peony garden in late spring. Ideal for families who want lush botanical diversity and room for kids to run free.

Parents making heart shape with hands over child on grass
Rustic & Historic

Parker Mill County Park

A historic 1873 grist mill, winding wooden boardwalks along Fleming Creek, and secluded woodland clearings. Perfect for toddlers and strollers with shaded trails and historic timber textures.

Family of three walking on paved trail holding child hands
Waterfront Serenity

Gallup Park & Huron River

Picturesque wooden bridges, weeping willows over the river, and paved walking paths. Spectacular golden-hour sunset reflections.

Family enjoying nature trails at Matthaei Botanical Gardens
Botanical Magic

Matthaei Botanical Gardens

Outdoor perennial display gardens, tranquil bonsai courtyards, and a lush glass conservatory that provides year-round tropical warmth even during Michigan winters.

Family portraits in home setting with warm natural light
Intimate Lifestyle

Your Home or Kerrytown

The most meaningful backdrop is where your family feels most at ease—cozy pancake mornings, backyard tire swings, or historic brick alleys in Downtown Ann Arbor.

Artistic Approach • Tailored Styles

Photography styles to match your family's personality.

Every family has its own rhythm. We tailor our pacing, direction, and compositions to celebrate your family's true spirit.

Documentary

Natural & Candid

Capturing real moments as they happen—kids chasing butterflies, warm tickle fights, and spontaneous giggles without stiff posing.

Unscripted Joy • Movement-First
Heirloom

Classic & Timeless

Beautifully composed portraits with everyone smiling toward the camera. Ideal for holiday greeting cards, grandparents' mantels, and wall galleries.

Wall Art Ready • Generational
Connected

In-Home & Lifestyle

Document the everyday magic inside your family home—nursery milestones, storytime on the rug, or baking cookies in the kitchen.

Personal Space • Authentic Warmth
Seasonal

Milestones & Seasons

Celebrate Michigan's four seasons—peonies in June, summer creek splashes, fiery autumn leaves in October, or snowy winter wonderland portraits.

Ann Arbor Seasons • Annual Tradition
Answers & Details

Common Questions about Family Portraits

Clear answers to help you prepare for a fun, stress-free family session in Ann Arbor.

What if my toddler or child has a meltdown or won't sit still? +
Please don't worry for a second! Kids being kids is what makes family sessions authentic and magical. We never force children to sit still or pose stiffly. We take breaks, play games, explore leaves, and let kids lead the pacing. Damion is exceptionally patient, and some of the sweetest, most genuine photographs happen during unexpected in-between moments.
What should our family wear for our portrait session? +
We recommend coordinated, cohesive tones rather than exact matching outfits. Warm neutrals (cream, beige, soft gray, taupe), muted earth tones (olive, terracotta, sage, navy, slate), and natural textures look gorgeous against Michigan greenery. Avoid neon colors, large logos, and overly busy prints. We send you a complete Outfit & Style Prep Guide upon booking!
Can we include our family dog or pet in the session? +
Absolutely, 100% yes! Pets are cherished family members. Outdoor parks like Nichols Arboretum, Gallup Park, and Parker Mill are wonderful dog-friendly settings. We recommend bringing a favorite squeaky toy, treats, and a neutral leash. If you want some photos with your pet and some without, having a friend or family member join for part of the session to hold the leash is always helpful!
What happens if it rains or the weather is bad? +
Michigan weather can be unpredictable! We monitor the forecast closely 24 to 48 hours prior to your session. If there is heavy rain, extreme wind, or thunderstorms, we will easily reschedule to an agreed-upon backup date with zero penalty or fee, or move to the indoor conservatory at Matthaei Botanical Gardens or an in-home lifestyle session.
What are the best Ann Arbor locations for young kids? +
For toddlers and young kids, Parker Mill County Park and Gallup Park are top favorites because they offer easy parking, paved trails for strollers, and safe grassy clearings without steep drop-offs. For older kids and teenagers, Nichols Arboretum and the Law Quad offer dramatic stone archways and historic scale.
When and how do we receive our final family photos? +
You will receive an initial curated set of sneak peek highlights within 48 to 72 hours so you can share your favorite portraits right away. Your complete, individually hand-edited digital gallery is delivered within 2 to 3 weeks via a private, password-protected cloud gallery with uncompressed high-resolution downloads.
Do we receive full personal printing rights? +
Yes! Every single family portrait collection includes a full personal print release. You have complete freedom to print holiday cards, canvas wall art, photo albums, or large-format framed prints at any lab of your choice, with zero watermarks on your downloads.
Do you photograph large multi-generational families and reunions? +
Yes! Our Extended & Generational Family Collection ($475) is specifically designed for multi-generational families, milestone anniversaries, and reunions. We capture the grand group portrait, individual family branches, grandparents with grandkids, sibling portraits, and spontaneous candids.
Client Feedback • Google Verified Reviews

Loved by Ann Arbor families.

Real feedback from local parents who trusted Aperture to preserve their most cherished family milestones.

★★★★★

“Damion was incredible with our two young kids! He was so patient, playful, and calm that the session felt like a walk in the park. The photos captured their real smiles and personalities perfectly.”

Johana M.
Nichols Arboretum Family Session • Verified Google Review
★★★★★

“The photos are absolutely breathtaking! The colors and lighting along the river were magical. Damion made my husband and toddler feel completely at ease. We will treasure these portraits forever.”

Magda K.
Gallup Park Family Session • Verified Google Review
★★★★★

“From outfit guidance to location recommendations, everything was easy. The sneak peek was delivered within 48 hours and the entire gallery was stunning. Best family photographer in Ann Arbor!”

Brandi T.
Parker Mill Family Session • Verified Google Review
Damion Fivenson — Ann Arbor Family Photographer
Behind The Lens

Meet Damion Fivenson.

Lead Photographer & Founder, Aperture Studios

I believe family photography should never feel like a performance, a high-pressure photoshoot, or an exhausting lecture on sitting still. The real magic of your family lives in the unscripted belly laughs, gentle forehead kisses, and curious little hands exploring trails.

With over a decade of portrait experience across Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County, I provide a calm, grounded presence. I know how to engage shy toddlers, help reluctant partners feel at ease, and capture the authentic heartbeat of your home.

Investment & Collections • Zero Hidden Fees

Simple, transparent family collections.

Tailored for Ann Arbor families. From intimate milestone hours to relaxed multi-generational reunions. Full personal printing rights included with every collection.

Classic Milestone

The Classic Session

Ideal for immediate families, annual holiday portraits, toddler milestones, or maternity sessions.

$ 175
Flat package rate • 1 Hour • Washtenaw County

  • 60 Minutes of relaxed on-location session time
  • 1 Scenic Ann Arbor location (Park or In-Home)
  • Immediate family (up to 6 people) + pets welcome
  • Curated high-res private cloud gallery
  • Full personal printing release & zero watermarks
  • 48–72 hour sneak peek highlights
Reserve The Classic ($175)
Multi-Generational

The Generational Story

Designed for extended families, visiting grandparents, reunions, and milestone anniversaries.

$ 475
Up to 2 Hours • Large Families & Reunions

  • Up to 2 Hours of comprehensive family storytelling
  • Extended family branches, all sub-groups & couples
  • Grandparents with all grandkids & individual child portraits
  • Up to 2 locations or combination In-Home + Park
  • $50 Archival Print Credit toward fine-art wall prints
  • Priority 24–48 hour preview highlights
Reserve Generational ($475)
Availability & Inquiries • Aperture Studios

Book your Ann Arbor family session.

Check date availability for your family portrait session, ask about location suggestions, or discuss custom scheduling across Ann Arbor and Washtenaw County.

Date Inquiries

Tell Us About Your Family

We personally review every inquiry and reply within 24 hours to confirm date availability and share our session prep guide.

🔒 No spam, ever. We reply personally within 24 hours.
Direct Communication

Prefer a quick chat or text?

Call or text Damion directly for immediate date availability, location advice for toddlers, or custom pricing.

No Travel Fee Across Washtenaw & Western Wayne County: