ELOPEMENT & INTIMATE WEDDING PACKAGES

  • Groom in a dark red suit jacket holding his Bride in the woods.

For The Wildly In Love Who Want Something Real.

Freedom To Relax & Be Yourself.

This isn’t just about pricing. It’s about choosing to do things your way. It’s about the two of you.  Your connection, your story, your way.  No drama, fake smiles, or rushed timelines.  I’m here to help you create a day that feels true to who you are.

I’m not just your photographer.  I’m your sense of calm, your trusted guide, and your biggest advocate for doing things your way. With me, there’s no pressure to perform, no production to put on. Just space to breathe, be present, and make memories that mean something.

Your wedding photos should be more than just pictures, they should bring you right back.  When you’re flipping through your wedding album, you should still feel it.

Hey! I’m Shonda

Sure, I’ll take beautiful photos, but that’s not the whole story. I’m here to make sure you feel comfortable and supported every step of the way. Because when you’re at ease, your photos reflect who you truly are.  

I believe that the decision to be married is deeply personal, and your day should reflect that. My job goes way beyond showing up with a camera. I’m there to listen to your vision, to guide you through the planning without overwhelm, and to create a safe, grounded experience that lets the real moments shine through. I’m observing, anticipating, and jumping in when the moment calls for it. I let things unfold naturally and capture what’s real: the quiet touches, the soft smiles, the bursts of laughter.   

You won’t catch me forcing anything or running the show. But behind the scenes? I’m grinning ear to ear when the light hits just right or when one of those honest, unfiltered moments appears like magic. You just get to be present. I’ll take care of the rest.

  • Photographer Shonda Michelson Photography in black and white.

Included In Every Elopement & Wedding Package

LGBTQ+ brides holding each other on the beach at sunset.

Energy-centered support system

I bring calm, grounding energy into everything I do so you can relax, feel safe, and be fully present on your day.

Location & vendor suggestions

Not sure where to start or need help narrowing your options? I’ve got you. I’ll help you find the most beautiful spots in northern Michigan and recommend trusted vendors that align with your vibe.

Planning support

Designed around how you want to experience the day so that you never feel rushed. I’ll help create a timeline built around how you actually want to experience the day, so you never feel rushed. 

Unlimited consultations

Need to talk things out, show off your dress, or just say hi? I’m here as often as you need.

Groom holding bride from behind kissing her shoulder

Sneak peeks

Because the waiting is the hardest part. Highlights will be delivered within a few days so that you can relive the magic.

Personal online gallery

Your full collection of hand-edited images, ready to download, share, print, and revisit forever ready within 6-8 weeks and will be available for one whole year.

Creative imagery & GIFs

Alongside timeless stills, I’ll create a mix of fun, moving GIFs that bring your moments to life in a whole new way.

Travel

No extra fees within the state of Michigan.

Choose from 4 hours to full day, starting at $4000.

“What makes Shonda so special isn’t just her incredible artistic sense, but her relaxed and positive energy is such a breath of fresh air, especially on such a hectic day. Shonda is so personable and definitely the ONLY Michigan wedding photographer I’d recommend!  Also, another thing about Shonda is she actually takes the time to get to know her couples, so if you are so lucky to have Shonda on your special day, you can rest assured you are going to have some beautiful, personal shots.“

Brooke & Cody

  • Candid of couple dressed in black holding each other near a large uprooted tree.

Engagement/Couples Sessions/Anniversary/Family Sessions

INCLUDES:
+ A session from 2 hours built around your favorite places and ways you love to spend time together.
+ Whether it’s hiking your favorite trail, sharing a campfire, wandering your go-to beach spot at sunset, or cozying up at home, these sessions are all about capturing your bond in a way that feels honest and relaxed.
+ Planning support and location ideas.  I’ll help you dream up a session that’s uniquely yours.
+ Unlimited photos. All the best moments, beautifully hand-edited and delivered in your personal online gallery.
+ Print rights + online ordering so you can bring these memories into your home.
+ Sneak peeks within a few days.
+ Travel included anywhere in Northrn Michigan.

Starting at $600

inquire here

“When I reached out to Shonda she got back to me very quickly, she answered all my questions and made me feel very comfortable in choosing her. When we first met (a few days before the wedding) we walked her around the property, chatted for a while, shared a meal together, and at the end of our first meeting I knew we weren’t going to have any problems feeling comfortable around her. That’s exactly what happened! She captured everything so naturally and beautifully, I hardly noticed she was there or felt like a camera was on me (which would normally make me feel awkward since I’m not very photogenic). Shonda is so sweet and truly great at what she does. If you want someone to capture all the sweet moments of your big day, she’s your gal and has a sneaky way of becoming your friend!”

~ Macy & Allen

Things I’m Frequently Asked

Super easy. Drop me a line through this inquiry form, and we’ll hop on a call or video chat to get to know each other a bit.  Once you’ve got all the info you need and you’re ready to lock things in, I’ll send over a booking form where you select your package, sign the agreement digitally, and place a $600 retainer to hold your date in my calendar. All major credit cards accepted. That’s it! You’re booked! 

Honestly? Most people feel that way, including yours truly, you’re not alone. My approach is relaxed and natural. I use easy prompts and direction so you’ll never feel stiff or posed.

YES PLEASE. Dogs are 1000% welcome and encouraged. Just give me a heads up so we can make sure to plan dog-friendly locations (and maybe bring a few treats).  

My advice is to go with it and embrace it- your wedding day is still special and worthy of celebrating even if Mother Nature throws a curveball! No matter what time of year you’re getting married here in Northern Michigan, plan for unexpected weather. Rain doesn’t bother me or affect my ability to create beautiful photos at all.  In fact, when it’s overcast and moody, the lighting is amazing and very flattering! In the worst-case scenario, we’ll find shelter, use clear umbrellas, or lean into the romantic stormy vibes. The day is still yours to celebrate, rain or shine. 

I don’t work with a strict “photos per hour” formula. Every couple, every location, and every experience is different. Some moments call for a handful of powerful images. Others unfold into dozens of beautiful in-between frames.
My focus is always on quality over quantity. I tell your story honestly, emotionally, and with intention. Rather than delivering hundreds of repetitive images, I carefully curate and hand-edit the very best moments so you receive a gallery that feels meaningful, cohesive, and true to you.

That depends on how your day is unfolding. Want a quiet start together at your Airbnb? Planning an adventure, a meal, or a golden-hour hike? Let’s chat through it together. I’ll help you figure out the right amount of time for what you want captured.

Yes! I want this to be doable and stress-free. After the $600 retainer, your remaining balance will be due 30 days before your wedding date.  Payments can be made at any time as long as the balance is paid 30 days before the due date.  

Let’s Create Unforgettable Memories Together.

CONTACT ME!