Rick Stringer Photography

07/21/2026

Sometimes a photography session becomes something much more than taking pictures.

Recently, Cindee and I traveled to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to photograph Eli’s senior portraits. What began as a portrait session became a weekend filled with friendship, laughter, incredible Lake Michigan scenery, and the kind of moments that simply can’t be staged.

For me, senior portraits have always been about more than creating a nice image. They’re about telling the story of who someone is and the places that have shaped them.

I wrote a little about the experience and shared some of my favorite photographs from the weekend on my blog.

I’d love for you to take a look.

A senior portrait session in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula became a weekend of friendship, family, and unforgettable moments along the shores of Lake Michigan.

07/18/2026

Some photo sessions become something much more.

Recently, Cindee and I headed to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to photograph Eli’s senior portraits. He wanted his senior photos to reflect a place that has been an important part of his life, and it was easy to see why. The Lake Michigan shoreline provided an incredible backdrop, but what made the weekend memorable wasn’t just the scenery—it was the people.

We spent the weekend with Melissa, Chad, Eli, and Taco, sharing great conversations, laughter, beautiful skies, and plenty of time exploring the shoreline. By the end of the weekend, it felt less like a photo shoot and more like time spent with good friends.

My goal with every senior session is to capture more than a smile. I want to tell a story about who someone is at this moment in their life. I hope these images do just that.

Congratulations, Eli! Thank you for trusting me to capture this exciting milestone, and thank you to the Hoeppner family for your incredible hospitality and friendship. Cindee and I are already looking forward to our next visit.

— Rick Stringer Photography

06/16/2026

“The Weight of Evening” — The setting sun slips beneath layers of clouds over Boardman Lake in Traverse City, Michigan. Rendered in black and white, the scene emphasizes the dramatic textures of the evening sky and the quiet reflection of the fading light across the water.

The Weight of Evening by Rick Stringer

06/13/2026

“Where Storm Meets Morning” — An approaching storm crosses Bear Lake in northern Michigan as the first light of sunrise illuminates the horizon. Cool blues and grays of rain-filled clouds contrast with warm reflections of gold, orange, and pink across the calm water.

Where Storm Meets Morning by Rick Stringer

06/12/2026

“Window Watcher” — A tuxedo cat pauses at a sunlit window, completely focused on the world beyond the glass. The black-and-white treatment emphasizes the contrast between shadow and light, while delicate whiskers catch the morning glow. A quiet moment of curiosity, patience, and instinct.

Window Watcher by Rick Stringer

06/07/2026

“Standing Alone” — A solitary yellow bloom rises above the surrounding foliage, catching the morning light while the world behind it fades into soft shapes and shadows.
https://rick-stringer.pixels.com/featured/standing-alone-rick-stringer.html

06/03/2026

Beautiful!

06/01/2026

“Cycles of Summer” — A butterfly rests on a weathered brewery barrel with a vintage bicycle softly blurred in the background at Right Brain Brewery in Traverse City, Michigan.

Cycles of Summer by Rick Stringer

05/25/2026

“Detroit Steel” — A classic Camaro portrait celebrating the power, style, and heritage of Detroit’s automotive legacy.

Detroit Steel by Rick Stringer

05/22/2026

“Where Light Lingers” — Sunset colors linger over Boardman Lake in Traverse City, Michigan, as dramatic clouds and shimmering reflections create a peaceful twilight landscape.

Where Light Lingers by Rick Stringer