Unscripted Moments. Real Stories. Local Knowledge.
Saugatuck is not a destination on my service area list. It is Home.
My passion for photography and art, surrounded by the beauty of the Lake Michigan shoreline has always felt like a perfect match. With a degree in photography and more than 15 years photographing Saugatuck, I bring experience, local knowledge, and an artist’s eye to every story I photograph.
I know Saugatuck through a photographer’s eye and an artist’s heart. The light, the landscape, the character, and the places that are perfect for photo session.
My approach blends documentary photography with an instinct for light, timing, and genuine emotion. I know when to step back and let a moment unfold and when to step in with clear, easy direction to create an exceptional portrait. I notice the connections, personalities, and fleeting moments that make your story yours.
Photography For Every Love Story
20+
Years of Experience
Millions+
Photographs Captured
400+
Weddings Photographed
20+
Countries Photographed
Testimonials
"We had the absolute best experience working with Kim Zahnow for our wedding! From start to finish, she was incredibly professional, kind, and made us feel so comfortable in front of the camera. She is not only incredibly talented, but also someone who genuinely cares about the people she works with."
Aubrey and Tyler Springer
Testimonials
"Kim was amazing to work with. She was super communicative, always quick to follow up, and took some of the best photos I could have asked for. I hired Kim to take photos of my proposal, and she did a wonderful job. She knew exactly where to go for the best photos."
Nate Witte
Testimonials
"Kim is an amazing photographer! We have used her for our business as well as capturing our wedding! She's incredibly professional and goes above and beyond. Thank you for the beautiful photos Kim"
David and Chad
Testimonials
"Kim is an absolute pleasure to work with. Not only is her photography beautiful, but the experience is also wonderful. Kim is warm, creative, passionate and unassuming. Kim puts you at ease and makes you feel comfortable right away. She is awesome with kids, my kids love having their pictures taken by her."
Justine Kolev
Testimonials
Kim's work reflects the excitement, enthusiasm, and energy she pours into everything she touches. A Delight!
Juli Petter, J.Petter Gallery
Testimonials
"Our beach elopement wedding was perfectly captured by Kim. She was wonderful in all aspects with communication, planning and being flexible for our needs. As we were unfamiliar with the location, her knowledge of the Saugatuck/Oval Beach area was instrumental in helping us achieve the most beautiful photos. We would highly recommend her services!"
Jamie Danoff
Experience Matters
I’m Kim Zahnow, a photographer, artist, storyteller, and the women behind Saugatuck Photography..
Photography has given me the incredible privilege of being invited into people’s lives to witness celebrations, relationships, families, beginnings, and all the beautifully unexpected moments in between.
If you’re curious about the person who will be standing on the other side of the camera, come get to know me a little better.
Recent Blog Posts
August 20th, 2026
A Romantic Wedding Proposal at The Belvedere Estate & Gardens in Saugatuck, Michigan
Wedding, Home
April 2nd, 2026
Pigeon Creek Golf Course Wedding in West Olive Michigan | Natural, Candid Photography
Home, Wedding
March 28th, 2026
A Summer Wedding Celebration at Home in Saugatuck
Wedding, Home, LGBTQ
March 28th, 2026
Backyard Wedding Photography | Intimate LGBTQ Wedding, Candid Only
Wedding, LGBTQ, Home
March 13th, 2026
Night Lights Senior Portrait Session in Downtown Grand Rapids Michigan
Senior Portrait, Portraits, Home
March 12th, 2026
Morning Senior Portraits at Oval Beach, Saugatuck Michigan
Senior Portrait, Portraits, Home
Ready to Book Your Saugatuck, Michigan Photographer?
I look forward to hearing from you!
FAQ
Where are you based and do you travel?
I am based in Saugatuck, Michigan and photograph throughout the Lake Michigan lakeshore including Holland, South Haven, and Grand Rapids. I also travel nationwide and internationally for weddings, brand shoots, and destination sessions. Travel fees are quoted per project. Fun Fact, I have photographed over 70 coffee farms throughout Africa and Central America.
What types of photography do you offer?
I specialize in three areas: wedding/event photography, portrait photography (senior, family, models, maternity, couples, and personal branding portraits), and brand/commercial photography for small businesses, makers, and hospitality brands.
How much do your sessions and weddings cost?
Portrait sessions start at $450. Wedding collections and brand packages are quoted based on coverage, deliverables, and location. Reach out through my contact page for more information.
What is your photography style?
My style is candid, documentary, and gently guided. I read light and energy quickly so I can capture real moments as they unfold. The final images feel honest, grounded, editorial, and deeply connected to your story.
Do you photograph elopements and small weddings on Lake Michigan?
Yes. Intimate weddings and elopements along Lake Michigan are some of my favorite sessions. I know the lakeshore's best light, beaches, dunes, and hidden spots for a meaningful ceremony.
How many photos will I receive and when?
Portrait sessions typically deliver 40–75+ edited images; weddings deliver several hundred. Sneak peeks arrive within a week, and full galleries are delivered within 4–8 weeks depending on the session.
Do you offer prints, albums, and wall art?
Yes. I offer heirloom albums, fine art prints, and framed wall art through my print shop so your images live beyond the screen.