Belle Isle Pier on the Detroit River

The image was taken from Belle Isle of the pier extending out onto the water. There is no cost to enter the park, however a Recreation Passport is needed to DRIVE onto the island. This costs $11.00/car and $5.00/motorcycle for Michigan residents and $31.00 for non-Michigan residents. After you enter Belle Isle, drive around the island to the GPS coordinates. Once you're there, you can park on the street and access the pier by foot. Reference the GPS coordinates in satellite view for context.

You can get a similar shot year round at this Belle Isle Pier, but I would suggest visiting in the spring, summer or fall. The winter isn't as pleasant, but you can still try it out!

Morning and late-afternoon will allow for the best lighting conditions. Visiting during mid-day (unless it's cloudy) will result in harsh, undesirable lighting.

Although I shot with a wide-angle lens (24mm), I also recommend experimenting and using a zoom lens. You can try shooting this location at a super wide field of view, or a super tight field of view.

Get creative and photograph horizontally or vertically. There are a lot of different views from this bridge, so don't limit yourself.

Even if they are far away, incorporate a model in your image. It will add an unexpected human element.

Belle Isle is full of things to see! Try heading over to the The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory to see a beautiful botanical garden and greenhouse on the isle.

Enjoy the views of Canada across the river!