Michael Sackett's Photography Blog

Good News!!!!

2009-08-11T21:03:00.005-04:00

I got some good news tonight. In a monthly photo contest I entered, two of my July images won awards...and one was given the July "Best In Show"...a first for me.

The image on the bottom was second place for a group photo and the image on the top of Kristy and AJ was first place for Bride and Groom and Best in Show for all categories.

Jenny & Jeremy - A Rainy Michigan Day

2009-08-11T20:59:00.004-04:00

Jenny & Jeremy were featured back in June during their engagement session...well it was wedding day and I am guessing they would have preferred a hot Austin, Texas day as opposed to a hot humid and rainy Michigan day. It was still a beautiful wedding at Gino's Surf, just indoors instead of outdoors. We did get the sun to come out for a little while, and the wind to quit blowing long enough to get a few nice shots outside.

Jenny & Jeremy, enjoy life and enjoy your honeymoon in Puerto Vallarta.

Kimberly & Howard at the River Birch Lodge

2009-08-06T21:28:00.005-04:00

This has got to be the most unique place in the metro Detroit area. The River Birch Lodge in Hartland was the venue of choice for Kimberly and Howard. I was just amazed at the natural beauty of this lodge (if you can call this modern day frontier style mansion a lodge). There were no bad places to shoot on the grounds. We had a ton of fun with Kimberly, Howard and the whole wedding party.

The day was brought to life by the exquisite wedding planning of Lindsey Nartker. Lindsey and her staff know how to get things done and she will go on my recommend list, for sure. http://www.lndevents.com

River Birch Lodge - http://www.riverbirchlodge.net

Kristy & AJ - Early American Wedding in Livonia

2009-07-27T23:09:00.004-04:00

Kristy & AJ picked a unique location in Livonia, the city historical museum, to have their wedding. What a cool place to get married. They had a beautiful wedding in the museum chapel and then were surprised by a white horse and carriage to transport them around the village. The carriage and horse are provided by Ann Arbor Carriage http://www.annarborcarriage.com. Denise was our driver and gave us two enjoyable rides (one of the perks of being a wedding photographer). Kristy and AJ then were off to the Burton Manor for their reception and a fun time had by all.

Tarrah & Seth's Big Day

2009-07-26T12:06:00.004-04:00

Tarrah & Seth finally made it official, after dating since high school, the two Lapeerian's (that's the name for someone from Lapeer, MI) finally made it official. The Roseville wedding and St. Clair Shores reception was an evening to remember for all. I had a chance to get some really nice moments with the bride and groom after the wedding.

Food Photography....I don't think Mike shoots food

2009-07-23T23:39:00.004-04:00

Chalk this up to a fairly new experience. I've shot some food when I was in school and at wedding receptions, etc. My new client, Matt Prentice Restaurant Group, has asked me to photograph their venues, events and chef's creations. This was my first go around with the chef's creations part. I was pretty happy with the result, mainly because it was something new and because Chop House VI is a fairly dark restaurant and most of my food photography in the past had been done with natural light with some fill. Chef Jason was a blast to work with and the food (in between different plates to shoot) was wonderful. I'd highly recommend Chop House VI for a date night with someone special.

Kimberly & Howard Explore Cranbrook

2009-07-23T06:27:00.005-04:00

I've done the dogs during the wedding day, but now I've officially done a dog at an e-session. Bella was the star for the first 15 minutes and then we entered Cranbrook thru a different entrance. Well I found a whole other area that is great to do pictures. Kim and Howard seemed to have fun exploring Cranbrook with me while I was shooting some really nice personal moments for them. Check back in a couple of weeks to see their really unique wedding and venue that is coming up on Aug. 1.

Jennifer & Joe - A long time coming

2009-07-19T22:07:00.002-04:00

Jenni & Joe have been dating for years and they finally made it official. They had a beautiful wedding and reception at Sycamore Hills. The rain stayed away just long enough to get the outdoor wedding in and allow us to travel around the golf course and get some fun shots. Jenni and Joe, here's to a long life together.

Susan and David's Wedding

2009-07-19T22:01:00.000-04:00

Susan and David are a super fun couple that had a beautiful wedding in Utica and then traveled to Cranbrook for some after wedding shots. I think we ended up with some truly nice shots of them at Cranbrook where they seemed totally at ease. Then off to Shelby Twp. and their reception. Their wedding party was a ton of fun also.

Michelle & Alfredo...Sparty On

2009-07-15T21:30:00.006-04:00

Michelle and Alfredo, both MSU grads, brought me up to E. Lansing to show me around campus and end up with some neat pictures. For those of you who know me well...you know my blood runs maize and blue, but I have to admit...MSU has a really nice campus and some great backgrounds for pictures. Michelle and Alfredo showed me some of their favorite spots on campus and we had some fun also.

Rene' & Ryan's Evening in the Park

2009-07-15T21:24:00.007-04:00

Ryan would be one of those teachers we all wish we had back in middle school history class...what a great sense of humor. We had a blast exploring George George Park and Partridge Creek. By the end of the e-session both Rene' and Ryan had got used to me shooting pictures and enjoyed the evening. I think we ended up with some unique pictures.

Lisa & Matt's Big Day

2009-07-15T21:17:00.005-04:00

Lisa and Matt are both teachers and a really fun couple. Matt and his groomsmen were a continual source of laughs throughout the day. St. Anne's Church in Warren was a truly beautiful spot for the ceremony and then the quick stop at Matt & Lisa's condo for some pictures with their dog Gus...and some shots in the commons area...then onto Fern Hill where we took a bunch of fun pictures on the first tee and putting green. A great time was had by all of the guests and the photographer as well.

Click on Detroit...Best of contest

2009-07-10T20:20:00.001-04:00

http://wdiv.cityvoter.com/michael-sackett-photography/biz/98108

Please take a minute and vote for me in the WDIV Click on Detroit contest.

Thanks,
Mike

Susan & David July Afternoons

2009-07-08T22:18:00.004-04:00

Susan and David's wedding is rapidly approaching...like 9 days away, but this couple still wanted a chance at an engagement session. Now this couple had some confidence issues, I'm not sure why after looking at these pictures. I think they ended up with some great shots that they will use at their reception.

The countdown has begun.

Mike & Riley's Trip to Utah

2009-07-05T21:34:00.005-04:00

So, I usually use this blog for displaying my work that I am doing for my clients. I just got back from spending 4 days with my 16 year old son, exploring and playing in Moab, Utah. It was a great time and something I think we both will always remember. I had some fun shooting some pictures in an amazing part of this great country.

Nicole & Dave e-session

2009-07-05T21:30:00.004-04:00

Nicole and Dave had a blast a Cranbrook, exploring and learning they too could be models. I really enjoy e-sessions that start out with the couple questioning whether they could do this and by the end they are pros. They make my job much easier. I know I always say it, but I'm looking forward to their Inn at St. Johns wedding.

Stephanie & Corey - e-session Detroit

2009-06-23T22:06:00.004-04:00

I'm really liking this e-session's photos. Actually, these are some of my favorites I've ever done. Corey seems to be a professional model, we are thinking he's taking classes late in the evening and telling Stephanie he's at work. Stephanie was a super sport and once she took a deep breath did an awesome job (as you can see by the photos). We did a quick tour of the Fox Theatre, Comerica Park, Cascades bar (for a shot to settle Stephanie down) and then finally MGM...with some side stops along the way.

This wedding is going to be a joy to photograph, I can tell.

Jennifer & Jeremy Enjoying Some Michigan Weather

2009-06-08T06:08:00.004-04:00

Jennifer & Jeremy are my bride and groom from Texas, who came to Michigan for a quick weekend trip to attend their wedding shower....and escape the 100 degree Texas heat. Their wedding will be at Gino's Surf later this summer, but we had to get the e-session in before. What a fun couple and I look forward to their upcoming wedding.

Katie & Andy's Weird Wedding Day.

2009-05-31T22:49:00.002-04:00

I doubt I have enough blog space to tell everyone what kind of strange stuff happened at Katie & Andy's wedding. At the end of the day, they were married, had a beautiful ceremony and reception and will end up with a day they'll never forget. We had a great time taking some great pictures around Ann Arbor between the wedding and reception. It's definitely a wedding I'll never forget, because the bride and groom are great people...and all of the strange things that happened at their wedding.

Shannon & Erik's e-session

2009-05-31T22:40:00.003-04:00

Shannon & Erik have been waiting all winter to get this done. Our original session was scheduled in October, and it's snowed that day, so we rescheduled for the end of May. When we showed up at George George Park, it was raining, but it ended up being a beautiful evening and we ended up with some great shots. Looking forward to your Sept. wedding Shannon & Erik.

Stephanie & Scott - Tango in Paradise

2009-05-26T21:09:00.004-04:00

Stephanie and Scott told me they were going to take dance lessons when I met with them 6-8 months ago. Did they, and they surprised the crowd with a first dance in the form of a tango...which they performed flawlessly. What a fun couple and wedding party. Glen Oaks was a great place for an outdoor wedding and beautiful reception. Best of luck with your lives in Seattle.

Bethany & Drew - Southfield Westin Atrium

2009-05-26T21:05:00.004-04:00

Bethany and Drew definitely picked a unique place to have their wedding ceremony and reception. The Atrium of the Westin in Southfield was beautiful on a Friday evening. One minute you felt like you were in Michigan and the next a tropical rainforest. Drew and Bethany make a great couple and seem to have a lot of fun together. Best of luck.

Jammie & Larry - Birmingham's Finest

2009-05-26T21:00:00.004-04:00

Jammie & Larry were married at the Birmingham Community House in a very beautiful outdoor ceremony (ok in a tent, because it's Michigan). This was a really nice ceremony with a very large wedding party to boot. This group was a lot of fun, both guys and gals. Best of luck Jammie and Larry.

Priscilla & Danny a Macedonian Wedding

2009-05-18T20:53:00.000-04:00

This was a first for me. I had the chance to shoot a Macedonian Orthodox wedding as a second/first shooter. These weddings are 18 hour marathons, so I shot the second half of the marathon, covering the ceremony and reception. This was definitely a ceremony that contained a lot of rituals and traditions brought from the former Yugoslavia. Pricilla and Danny were a great couple who enjoyed the culture and traditions...and a good party.

Michelle & Chuck Got Married

2009-05-17T08:48:00.006-04:00

I'd heard about this wedding and all it's plans for a long time, since Michelle is a co-worker with my son. This was a refreshingly elegant wedding. Kensington Church's chapel provided for some really nice images and then a rush thru Meadowbrook Hall's gardens and then on to Oakland Center for the reception. All done in a fun Japanese / American style.

Jay & Elena e-session

2009-05-11T18:43:00.004-04:00

On Sunday, I went out with one of my favorite couples for an e-session. Elena & Jay have been together for 9 years...since they were freshmen in high school, and now, come September they will spend the rest of their lives together. And they work together every day to boot. They seem to really enjoy each other and I equally enjoyed spending a couple of hours wandering around Cranbrook with them. It's always fun to see a couple who hasn't explored Cranbrook and then they are amazed at the photo opportunities at each corner we turn. Looking forward to Sept.

Sydney's Bat Mitzvah

2009-05-04T08:42:00.001-04:00

This was a first for me, but this ended up being a really fun ceremony and party for Sydney. What a great weekend in Chicago. This was a great change up for me from weddings...combining a different religious background with teenage energy that doesn't ever seem to stop.

Enjoy!

Jennifer & Juan's Wedding

2009-04-20T09:29:00.000-04:00

In an early spring wedding, it ended up being a beautiful day and a beautiful ceremony in Richmond. Although the golf course at Sycamore Hills looked a little barren, it was a beautiful afternoon outside. What a fun couple and a fun wedding.

Tigers v White Sox

2009-04-14T10:07:00.004-04:00

I hate early season baseball because it's sooo cold and you stand there not moving for several innings...need I go on. It actually was a good game and the Tigers, although coming out on the losing end, kept in the game until the end. It always takes me a few games to get my baseball shooting eye back, so nothing real exciting here. Hockey playoffs start this week...as well as wedding season, so look for lots of updates.

Marilyn & Brad Engagement Session

2009-03-30T16:06:00.004-04:00

Ann Arbor seems to be a usual place for me to shoot engagement sessions. This was a great couple who's wedding I'll be shooting June 6th. It was a great afternoon to get to know them. Marilyn is a little on the shorter side and Brad is a little taller than the average guy, so it made for some fun shooting. The weather went from nice bright sun to overcast and back again.

MSU v Duke

2009-03-26T16:14:00.001-04:00

The second round of the NCAA Women's Tourney at Mich. State proved to be even better than the first round. The matchup featured #1 seeded Duke against #9 seeded Mich. State, who happened to be playing in front of their home crowd on their own floor. Duke led and then MSU slowly came back and took over the game, never too look back. Congrats to the Lady Spartans (for those of you who know me, that's really tough for me to say). A nice surprise for me was to find one of my pictures on the front cover of the USA Today the next morning.

2009 NCAA Women's Basketball Championship Round One

2009-03-23T09:50:00.005-04:00

Haven't shot a lot of basketball this year, so this was actually fun. One good game and one game that was pretty much a blow out, but still enjoyable. Middle Tennessee State gave Michigan State all they could handle and MSU didn't pull it out until the last minute. Exciting to watch and shoot. Then Duke handed Austin Peay State a big loss and it looks like Tues. night's game between Duke and MSU could be a great one. Looking forward to that. It's always nice shooting in a venue with great lighting too.

Kori & Tom Get Married

2009-03-15T21:41:00.003-04:00

I've been looking forward to this wedding since I met with Kori and Tom last fall. And, Michigan weather was beautiful for a mid-March day. Kori and Tom each have two kids and they made the day even more special for them. Hopefully they are enjoying themselves in Puerto Rico and on their cruise. Here are a few of my favorites from the day.

Red Wings v Coyotes

2009-03-11T13:37:00.005-04:00

It was a pretty exciting game for the Red Wings who are playing with a few of their starters injured. This one took overtime, but the Wings won, 3-2. I took a puck off the front of my 70-200 lens last night, which was something new. I pulled the lens back and held my breath to see how much damage there was. Luckily everything was intact and I kept on shooting. I have the first wedding of the 2009 season this Saturday and didn't need to go looking for new glass this late in the week.

Wings v Sharks

2009-02-25T20:47:00.002-05:00

In the final regular season meeting of the Wings and the Sharks proved the Red Wings are ready to play hard and defend the Cup. This was probably the hardest hitting game I've seen all season. It was also the return of Claude Limeaux at Joe Louis Arena. He had been absent for 5 years, but still got plenty of boos when he took the ice.

Mott Women's & Children's Hospital Construction Photos

2009-02-16T18:38:00.004-05:00

In my quest to develop myself as a more well rounded photographer, I have picked up a new client who will require me to shoot construction. I was pretty happy with the way these turned out. While looking for better angles, I was able to shoot from a basket hanging on a tower crane. It wasn't as scary as I anticpiated...swinging 15 or so stories above the ground.

Wings vs. Avs Feb. 15, 2009

2009-02-16T18:27:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I opened my mouth too soon and now the Wings are on a two game losing streak. It was a great game that went into overtime and I did get some good ice level positions so I could shoot the last couple periods and I was on the end for the game winning goal (although it was for the Avs). A few shots I'm happy with here. Let me know what you think.

Wings v Wild...They're Starting To Roll

2009-02-15T10:50:00.005-05:00

It's finally starting to look like the Red Wings are starting to make their end of the season run for the Cup. They are starting to click with most lines that are out there. Not any real stellar shots tonight, but still enjoyed shooting.

Detroit Titans v #11 Butler Bulldogs

2009-02-08T19:59:00.006-05:00

I don't get to shoot too much basketball anymore even though it is one of my favorite sports to shoot. So a matchup between a local college and the #11 team in the country sparked my interest, especially when I can shoot at Calihan Hall, which is an old fashioned basketball arena that has some nice lighting. Butler ended up winning the game, but the Titans put up a good fight. Looking forward to shooting more hoops.

Wings v Phoenix

2009-02-08T19:46:00.006-05:00

Although I shot a few Wings games in Dec. and Jan., Feb. will get me back to shooting a few more games. We start out with the playoff bubble Phoenix Coyotes, coached by "the great one" Wayne Gretzky. It was actually an exciting game to come back to. Nick Lidstrom's game ending, game winning goal brought the win to the Wings. Also is a screen capture of the website that had used one of my pictures the next morning.

I'm Back

2009-02-08T19:37:00.002-05:00

Ok, I really did shoot things in Dec. and Jan., but I got lazy and didn't post much...ok anything. I'm back and ready for 2009 and am looking forward to building my business. 2009 is going to be the year that I could possibly make wedding and sports photography my sole profession...which has been my goal for years.

Stay Tuned

Lions v Buccaneers - Loss #..ok this is getting ridiculous

2008-11-23T19:18:00.002-05:00

Most of the crowd was gone by the middle of the third quarter. The Lions started out with a 17 point lead and ended up losing 38-20. 35 straight unanswered points by the Lions. I still enjoy shooting the game, but it does get frustrating when there is no excitement for the home team.

Erin & Cole e-session

2008-11-23T19:14:00.002-05:00

Erin and Cole are getting married next October and it's one wedding I'm really looking forward to. They live in Detroit and are both embracing Detroit and it's comeback. They chose to do their e-session in some of the places they like to spend time. Eastern Market and Greektown were two of the spots we went to, along with Belle Isle. I really enjoyed roaming the city with them and I think the pictures turned out great.

Central Michigan vs Ball State - MAC West Title Game

2008-11-19T23:11:00.000-05:00

It was a cold and blustery night in Mt. Pleasant. Rain and cold at the beginning of the game and then it turned to snow. Central Michigan has some great lights to shoot under. Exposure was the same as Ford Field????? Ball State came out on the winning end and is now 11-0. Wouldn't want to do it every night, but this was a fun game to shoot.

Wings vs. Oilers

2008-11-17T23:08:00.001-05:00

I finally broke my losing streak with when shooting the Wings this season. The Wings played a great game and I had a couple of good glass spots to shoot from.

Stanley Cup Rematech

2008-11-14T16:28:00.003-05:00

The Wings v the Pens in the first meeting since the Stanley Cup last year. 13 goals scored thru the game...who would have guessed that. It was exciting though and I think Pittsburgh is up to give another run for the title.

Katie & Chris e-session

2008-11-14T16:01:00.002-05:00

Another Ann Arbor e-session...either everyone must love Ann Arbor as much as I do...or their must be a college there or something (dumb joke). Actually Katie worked in Ann Arbor and Chris just hung out their on the weekends and that's where they met. Yet another fun e-session on a beautiful fall day.

Nicole & Brian e-session

2008-11-02T16:08:00.002-05:00

Second to last e-session of the year and this was again at Cranbrook...you must get the picture people think Cranbrook is beautiful. Nicole and Brian are triathletes that could run circles around me, but still had a lot of fun taking pictures. Lots of smiles and that makes it easier for the guy behind the lens.

Michelle & Matt e-session

2008-10-19T15:59:00.001-04:00

Stoney Creek...hmmm....I think the carnival may have been more appropriate for this couple. I can honestly this was the most relaxed e-session I've done and it's totally because Matt and Michelle just truly enjoy spending time together and having fun. Their 2009 wedding will prove to be just as fun I'm sure.

Emily & David at Ford Estate

2008-10-18T15:55:00.001-04:00

This is a simply stunning couple and the venue they chose was equally great. I had been at a wedding at the Ford Estate many years ago, but they really have improved things and the grounds surrounding the house are wonderful for photography. Emily and David had a great wedding and a very elegant and well planned reception. This is my last wedding for 2008, so you'll have a lot more sports to read about the next few months.

Red Wins v Vancouver

2008-10-16T15:54:00.000-04:00

Another loss for the Wings...I'm going to have to stay away from these home games I think.

Sara & Jordan e-session

2008-10-12T15:51:00.002-04:00

Sara and Jordan also picked Cranbrook for their e-session...both being Birmingham / Bloomfield Hills natives, it made sense. They showed me areas of Cranbrook I had never seen before and now I have even more favorite places to take pictures. Can't wait for their wedding next Oct.

Jean & Mike e-session

2008-10-12T15:44:00.000-04:00

Rochester was the chosen spot for Jean & Mike's e-session. We found a great old grain elevator with red peeling paint to shoot some really cool shots...along with the beautiful public park in Rochester.

Andy & Isabel Get Married

2008-10-11T15:36:00.004-04:00

A second wedding for both, but done the way they wanted it done. What a fun time and a fun couple that truly seemed so in love. I shoot a lot of weddings and you could just see the love in both of their faces. Looking forward to hearing about their honeymoon in Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Red Wings Home Opener

2008-10-09T15:34:00.002-04:00

Wow, what a night. I've never been to an opening night game for the Red Wings and this one was cool because they raised the Stanley Cup banner and had the festivities that went along with it. Although they lost to an original six nemesis, Toronto Maple Leafs, it was still a great game. Looking forward to another Stanley Cup season.

Detroit Lions v Chicago Bears

2008-10-05T15:26:00.000-04:00

This was only the second NFL game I've covered and I still have a lot to learn about shooting the NFL. The game moves so fast and you have to be aware of the whole field at all times because plays develop so quickly. The Lions lost, but what's new about that.

Tarrah & Seth e-session

2008-10-05T15:24:00.002-04:00

Tarrah and Seth both grew up in my hometown of Lapeer. They chose Cranbrook as their spot for their e-session and it couldn't have been a nice day. A fun couple that will be a ton of fun next July when their wedding rolls around.

Kim and Paul in Lansing

2008-10-04T15:40:00.000-04:00

A Michigan State grad and all of his MSU friends...geez...and then they were moving to the buckeye state to start off their new lives together. Ha Ha...it was a really fun and beautiful wedding that I'm glad I got to shoot. What a happy couple and I even got to see some...ahhem...beautiful areas of E. Lansing.

Katie & Andy e-session

2008-09-28T15:16:00.002-04:00

Katie, the nurse and Andy, the doctor had their e-session in Ann Arbor...where they met and spend most of their time working and enjoying life. Their wedding isn't until next May, so we'll see more of this couple then. Beautiful day...almost too warm, but some great pictures.

Jodie & Aaron Wedding 9/27/08

2008-09-27T15:10:00.001-04:00

Jodie & Aaron picked the beautiful outdoor venue at George George Park (yes it's two George's) in Clinton Twp. I have to admit, when they were telling me about an outdoor wedding in late Sept. in Michigan...I had my doubts, but this ended up simply gorgeous. The reception was equally well done and it was a wedding I truly enjoyed.

Kelly & Mike get Married

2008-09-24T16:18:00.002-04:00

Kelly & Mike had a really nice Friday evening wedding. The Radisson in Bloomfield Hills was the venue for this midevil themed wedding. Very cool couple and Kelly was nothing but smiles walking down the aisle. They had a great outdoor courtyard for shooting pictures to boot.

2009 Booking Fast

2008-09-15T20:11:00.002-04:00

If you are a bride and groom, looking for your photographer for your 2009 wedding, don't wait too long. I'm completely booked in June and getting close in May. Don't wait, if you like my work, please e-mail or give me a call and let's get your wedding on the books. You get "me" when you book with me, so when I'm booked, there isn't someone else to take my place.

Contest Winner

2008-09-14T15:28:00.001-04:00

I won a second place in the Bella contest for the category of wedding photojournalism. I was pretty proud of the image anyway, but this helped affirm that.

Julie & Michael in Ann Arbor

2008-09-10T20:07:00.000-04:00

Julie the beer salesman...what a job. This was a super fun couple that I really enjoyed photographing for their e-session. We used the campus area of Ann Arbor as our backdrop. It rained, the sun was bright and we found a bar (that's a surprise when Julie's job is to sell beer to bars). All of this summed up a cool session.

Amie & Michael Get Married

2008-08-17T20:00:00.003-04:00

Amie & Michael chose a country setting for their luau style wedding. Laid back was about the only way to describe this wedding...from the shorts and Hawaiian shirt dress code to the Vodka luge. The party went on long after I left I'm sure, but this was nothing short of a fun wedding.

Membership Achieved

2008-08-01T12:25:00.003-04:00

So this was kind of a big deal for me and my wedding photography business. I was accepted as a member of the Artistic Guild of Wedding Photojournalists Association. You must submit a portfolio of images and be accepted, instead of the usual, pay your money and get in kind of organization. This was my third try, so I was happy when I got the acceptance letter. As a photographer, when you look at the types of photographers that are members, I feel as I've made it to the next level.

Monika and Brad's Big Day

2008-07-12T21:47:00.005-04:00

Monika and Brad started their day in Rochester with a downpour on their way to the church...but by the time they were done at the St. Andrews Catholic Church, we had a beautiful day. They did things a little less traditional and spent a few hours at a pub and the Rochester Chop House before heading off to the reception at the Roostertail in Detroit. What a beautiful night on the river!!! A super fun couple and a nice wedding.

Courtney & Ray Wedding 7/5/08 - Toledo

2008-07-09T22:09:00.006-04:00

Courtney and Ray did it at the Zoo...ok, they had their reception at the Toledo Zoo and their wedding at the newly renovated St. Patrick's Historic Church in Toledo...what a beautiful place. Courtney and Ray win the award for the tallest bride & groom I've photographed. Courtney was a Villanova women's basketball player in college and I think Ray has probably played his share of basketball. The reception at the Toledo Zoo was very cool and unique and a venue I'll never forget.

Buick Open 2008 - Grand Blanc

2008-06-29T22:03:00.001-04:00

What a beautiful day for the final round of the 2008 Buick Open. Tiger was supposed to be there, but the crowds were still good. Kenny Perry finished strong to win his second Buick Open over Woody Austin and Bubba O'Hara.

Laura and Frank's Wedding Caribbean Style

2008-06-28T21:59:00.000-04:00

It was the Caribbean in Michigan. Some of these pictures could almost convince you. The Harrison Twp. restaurant hosting the wedding/reception provided a great place for a beach styled wedding....complete with a sand castle. Laura and Frank headed back to NC and then St. Lucia to start their lives together. What a fun couple.

Tonya & Freddy Reception 6_21_08

2008-06-21T21:55:00.000-04:00

Tonya and Freddy got married in Las Vegas a week earlier, but came back to Michigan to celebrate with their family and friends. The rain held off so we could get some really nice pictures in a St. Clair Shores park. The reception was beautiful and provided a great place for some more pictures. Best wishes.

NASCAR - Lifelock 400 @ MIS

2008-06-15T22:04:00.007-04:00

Something totally new for me...NASCAR. For those of you that know me, you know I'm not a NASCAR fan at all and think it's kind of a silly "sport". But, when you are a sports photographer, you have to experience it all. This was actually kind of fun. I spent most of my time in the pits area and turn 4, so I guess I'll have to go back again and experience the outer edge of the track. This was a good first experience.

Brittany & Josh - Grand Rapids

2008-06-14T21:54:00.007-04:00

Brittany and Josh Edds were married at the Fountain Street Church in Grand Rapids. Both the bride and groom are Army officers who met at Westpoint. What a fun day and a fun couple. Fountain Street Church was an amazing old church that has been maintained perfectly. We did the photo walk at the Gerald R. Ford Museum on the banks of the Grand River. The reception took place at the classic hotel Amway Grand, what an exquisite place that is. We ended up with some really great pictures.

6-7-08 Margaret & Chris - New York Style

2008-06-10T15:24:00.009-04:00

This couple is definitely the got the title as "most fun couple to photograph" in my book right now. What a blast we had...and they did everything right on their part. We shot the wedding and pre-ceremony stuff in Ypsilanti at the St. John Baptist Catholic Curch...I then followed them as they were being transported in a '57 Chevy to Dearborn Inn, where they were staying in the Edgar Allen Poe house. From there we went to the reception held at the Henry Ford Museum where we did some quick shots inside the museum and then took a ride in a Model T around the Village and did some more shots of just Margaret and Chris. Amazing stuff. I had a blast and even though it was a 12 hour coverage gig, it was worth it. Best of luck Margaret and Chris to a long life together.

Wings Win The Cup

2008-06-05T15:08:00.000-04:00

What a ride it was with the Wings winning the cup and I got the chance to cover the winning game in Pittsburgh. Worth the long drive! It's an experience that helps to shape you as a photographer, working under a deadline, working with tons of other experience photographers and media and a governing body being very specific about what you can and can't do. It's something I'll always remember....AND THE WINGS WON CUP #4 in the last 11 years.

At one point after the victory, my images appeared on ESPN, CBS Sports and Yahoo simultaneously. That was an accomplishment for me.

Emily & Scott - May 31, 2008

2008-06-01T21:19:00.006-04:00

What a beautiful wedding. This was a Bloomfield Hills based wedding. Wedding at Academy of the Sacred Heart and reception at Iroquois Club. We spent an hour at Cranbrook taking some great shots of a super fun wedding party. I had a great time photographing them and I hope they enjoy the pictures.

Tigers are on a tear...ok maybe

2008-05-22T16:34:00.006-04:00

Haven't shot the Tigers since their downward spiral against Boston, but shot last night in the rain for most of the game. Nice grand slam homer by Marcus Themes. Lets hope this is the beginning of something good.

Cherise and Jamie Get Married

2008-05-18T15:42:00.000-04:00

Had a super wedding on Saturday. A really happy and fun couple that were totally open to any suggestions. We had plenty of the day that tried to rain us out, but we prevailed and I think we got all of the pictures they wanted.

Spring Special

2008-05-13T22:00:00.003-04:00

Ok, here's the chance for all couples that are looking for a photographer for their Fall '08 wedding. I'm offering a 15% discount for all weddings (Sept. - Dec., 08) booked by s June 30th. This will be the last booking discount for the year, so don't miss out.

Engagement Session - Angela and Jeff

2008-05-02T21:56:00.003-04:00

Had a great time with Angela and Jeff at Stoney Creek Metropark shooting an engagement session for their upcoming July wedding.

Detroit Red Wings v Colorado Avalanche Game 1 & 2

2008-04-29T21:56:00.003-04:00

What an experience it has been shooting games 1, 2 & 5 of the Nashville series and then 1&2 of the Colorado series. I was lucky enough to get the splash page on ESPN.com for game 1 as well as a nice size shot in USA Today on Friday April 25th.

Detroit Red Wings v Nashville Predators Game 1

2008-04-12T11:19:00.003-04:00

Got the call at the last minute to cover my first Red Wings game. It was a learning experience and shooting Hockey at Joe Louis Arena isn't the easiest thing in the world. The ice level holes are hard to come by and often poorly positioned. But, I still was able to get some nice shots. This shot appeared on ESPN.com the following day.

Detroit Tigers v. Chicago White Sox 4_5_08

2008-04-06T16:27:00.005-04:00

Finally a beautiful day in Detroit this spring and a great day for a baseball game. Magglio Ordonez received his "Silver Slugger" trophy prior to the game to award him for the Major League Batting Champion 2007. Brandon Inge had a good game playing 3rd base and Dontrelle Willis looked sharp on the mound in his first start as a Tiger. All of this wasn't good enough to net them the win. Chicago won the game 5-3.

Detroit Tigers Opening Day 2008

2008-04-01T20:11:00.004-04:00

Got a call late last week to shoot the Detroit Tigers Opening Day. All kinds of excitement is surrounding this season for the Tigers and the fans came out to support the team. 44,943 were there to see the game and many more were milling around the stadium area downtown. Miss America 2008 Kirsten Haglund was there to sing the National Anthem and throw out the ceremonial first pitch. The Tigers lost the game 5-4 in 11 innings, but a good time was had by all. It was my first Opening Day and a great way to get to experience it.

Michigan v Utah Gymnastics

2008-03-24T15:30:00.003-04:00

Had some fun on the 22nd with two highly ranked gymnastics teams. I've shot high school gymnastics before, but this was definitely the next level up. Utah was a very impressive team and they came out with the win. I found it difficult to cover both teams at the same time because of the way the events were laid out. I was happy with what I left with though.

Spring Special

2008-03-20T19:23:00.003-04:00

If you haven't booked your wedding yet. What are you waiting for? Now is the time. We are offering 20% off any wedding package that is booked by May 15, 2008. The wedding can be anytime thru the end of 2008. 2009 weddings do not qualify for the discount. Check out the investment page on our website to see what you can save...

Lauren & Chris Engagement Session

2008-03-10T20:53:00.003-04:00

What a beautiful Sunday afternoon in Michigan. Yes, it was cold, but I think everyone had a good time. Chris and Lauren were officially engaged one year Mar. 9th and were celebrating by taking the engagement session pix at Oakland University (where they were engaged one year ago). There wedding is July 19th this year. They were a fun couple to shoot and I think the pictures show it. You can check out the rest on my website.

2008 MHSAA Wrestling Finals

2008-03-10T20:47:00.004-04:00

Something new for me...the MHSAA Wrestling Finals. I actually kind of enjoyed it (definitely more than shooting the swimming finals). I spent several two hour sessions at the Palace to shoot all of the wrestlers that were needed for the publication I was shooting for. The intensity shown by these guys in the finals is definitely something you lose once you reach 30 or older.

James & Stacey on Leap Day

2008-03-01T21:28:00.004-05:00

Well, James only has to celebrate this wedding every 4 years...right. Although it was a snowy day in the Detroit area, it ended up being a nice wedding. Congratulations to Stacey and Jim and I hope they enjoy the photos. Wedding and reception held at Farina's in Berkley, MI.

Published SI.com

2008-02-26T19:40:00.003-05:00

It has been a while since I've seen any of my work used, so I was excited to see it show up on SI.com today...still waiting for the print version of Sports Illustrated to use one of my pictures.

Michigan v Illinois Mens Basketball

2008-02-24T10:51:00.009-05:00

Another big day for the Wolverines. A poorly played game by both teams, but Michigan was able to put on a push at the end of the game and Illinois couldn't answer. Former Fab Fiver, Jalen Rose, was honored at halftime for his charitable work with the University and communities. Lots of jockeying for space on the shooting end, but I ended up with some nice shots.

Master Your Craft Seminar

2008-02-23T11:57:00.004-05:00

Just got back from the Master Your Craft seminar in Chicago. What a great experience. Mike Colon and Bob Davis are truly inspirational when it comes to wedding photography and business. Bob's demonstration on using portable Canon flash units to light a room or shoot portraits has definitely brought a new tool into my box of tricks. Mike is not only funny, but a great speaker and an expert at marketing yourself to achieve whatever your goal is with your "craft" (this being photography). Can't wait to try out some of my newly learned information.

http://www.masteryourcraft.net/

"Live" Cheerleading/Dance Competition 2_16_08

2008-02-18T10:37:00.003-05:00

Spent the day on Saturday doing some freelance work for Lightspeed Photography from Louisville. The "Live" cheerleading and dance competition was held at Cobo Hall and is a long day shooting very young (4-5 year old) cheerleaders all the way up to college aged cheer teams. The kids really enjoy it. You can check out some of the photos here... http://www.orderthephotos.com/LIVEindex.asp

Michigan v Penn State Mens Basketball 2_9_08

2008-02-15T12:19:00.005-05:00

Finally a win for the Wolverines. It was nice to see John Beline smile for once. Stuck with a shooting position close to the basket for much of the game, so it makes shooting a little tougher with the overhead light placement at Crisler. Manny Harris had another great game.

Waterford Kettering v Southfield Lathrup Girls Basketball

2008-01-26T14:26:00.001-05:00

On Thursday night (1_24_08) I was at Waterford Kettering shooting the girls basketball game for a parent. I'm loving the new florescent lighting they've installed. The game ended with Lathrup winning in overtime, but Kettering made a great comeback. You can see the image gallery here.

http://msackett.smugmug.com/gallery/4231058#247473889

Michigan v Iowa Basketball

2008-01-21T20:57:00.000-05:00

Shot the Michigan v Iowa mens basketball game last night. It was a media circus for about half the game with new Michigan football coach Rich Rodriguez and wife at the game and then several recruits showing up. Highly recruited high school quarterback Terrell Pryor was there and the photogs were jockeying for position to get a picture. Michigan lost 60-68 in a game which they should have won.

New Beginning

2008-01-20T11:39:00.000-05:00

After finishing off a successful fall of shooting college sports and weddings, I figured it was about time to devote a little time to my business. I never figured I’d ever start a blog, but it seems like a great way to keep in contact with my customers and allow everyone to see what I’ve been doing. Feel free to comment.