Sunset Magic + Spring Style: 2026 Senior Icon Team Shoot in South Haven, Michigan

There’s just something about a spring evening along Lake Michigan that feels unmatched—especially when you’re surrounded by a group of vibrant, outgoing ALMOST high school seniors ready to kick off their senior year in style. A few weeks ago, I had the absolute pleasure of photographing my 2026 Amber’s Icons senior rep team, and it couldn’t have been a more perfect night. From downtown South Haven to the rocky shoreline at Deerlick Creek Park, this session captured not just stunning images, but new friends, effortless style, and the magic of being so close to that finish line they can almost taste it!


Meet the Icons

This year’s team includes five incredible seniors representing schools across Southwest Michigan:

  • Brody from Lawton High School
  • Aili from Paw Paw High School
  • Ava and Callie from Coloma High School
  • Taylor from St. Joseph High School

Each of them brought their unique personality and energy to the shoot, and watching them connect, laugh, and hype each other up made the evening feel less like a photoshoot and more like I was just hanging out with some amazing teenagers and the mamas (and sister!) who joined us.


Downtown South Haven: Where It All Began

We kicked things off in downtown South Haven, a favorite location for its mix of small-town charm and cool textures. From brick walls to breezy sidewalks and lakeside light, this spot gave us the perfect place to warm up and start snapping. The group looked effortlessly coordinated but still true to their own style—bright spring colors, good energy, and relaxed confidence all around.

Capturing the Heart of Southwest Michigan

One of the best parts of being a senior photographer in Southwest Michigan is the variety this region offers. Whether it’s vibrant downtown areas like South Haven and St. Joseph, peaceful small-town charm in places like Paw Paw and Lawton, or natural beauty along the Lake Michigan shoreline, it’s the perfect backdrop for senior portraits. Spring brings its own special kind of magic—longer golden hours, gentle warmth in the air, and that renewed energy after winter fades.

This shoot captured everything I love about spring sessions in Southwest Michigan. The textures of the city, the open spaces by the lake, and the genuine connection among the seniors all came together to make the evening unforgettable. It’s the kind of session that reminds me why I do this—helping teens feel confident, seen, and celebrated in a season of so much change.


Golden Hour at Deerlick Creek Park

As the sun dipped lower, we headed to our final destination: Deerlick Creek Park, a quiet stretch of beach just south of town known for its rocky shoreline and open views of the lake. The sunset gave us everything we could’ve hoped for—soft pastels, warm glow, and a breeze that caught just right.

We wrapped the night capturing the group on the rocks, barefoot and laughing, with the waves rolling in behind them. These moments are what it’s all about—authentic, joyful, and full of promise.

Why Join Amber’s Icons?

This session is just the beginning for my 2026 senior rep team. Being an Icon means more than just photos—it’s about connection, confidence, and celebrating your senior year in a bold, beautiful way. Icons receive exclusive photo opportunities, discounted sessions, rep cards, and more—but more importantly, they get to be part of a community that celebrates exactly who they are.


Want to Be Part of Next Year’s Team?

If you’re a current ALMOST junior (Class of 2027!) in Southwest Michigan and love being in front of the camera, now’s the time to start thinking about applying for next year’s team. I’m always looking for friendly, outgoing seniors from schools across the region who want to make the most of their senior year with one-of-a-kind photo experiences.

Amber Karrels Photography specializes in senior portraits in Southwest Michigan, including Coloma, St. Joseph, South Haven, Paw Paw, and beyond. Want dreamy sunset beach photos? Urban downtown vibes? Something totally you? I’ve got you covered.


Ready to book! Click on my contact link at www.amberkarrels.com to get this party started, or follow along on Instagram @amberkarrelsphotography to see the full senior experience in action.