Empire Beach on Lake Michigan

The image was taken from the north end of Empire Beach along the shoreline. To get there, I recommend taking a car. Once you're in Empire, MI: - Take Front Street going west from the stop sign at M22 - Turn right at Joe's Friendly Tavern onto S Lake Street - Turn left at the next stop onto Niagara Street, following the signs to the beach - Park as far north in the parking lot near the boat launch as possible - Walk right (north) up the beach until you hit the channel connecting the inland South Bar Lake to Lake Michigan (about a 5-10 minute walk)

I shot this image at Empire Beach in the month of June when the sun is the farthest north. This style of image can be captured as long as the beach is clear of debris, specifically snow and ice that is prevalent December through March.

For similar lighting conditions, visit this location during sunset. This will be the only time of the day to capture the vibrant color as the sun sets on Michigan's west coast over the beach. This image is extra "glowy" because it was shot during a rain storm that was blowing through right at sunset.

Using an extra wide-lens (11mm on a crop sensor) gives you a large viewing area, but it also requires you to get very close to the sand and waves.

If your back or knees are a concern, as you get lower to take the photo, consider shooting in live view mode.

You may need to wait on several successions of waves before you capture a breaking wave/receding wave combination that you like. Shooting with a slightly slower shutter speed (1/30 sec) will allow you to capture more water movement while still keeping much of its texture.

Aim to have the horizon of your image in the top third, and pebbles in the bottom third for a balanced composition.

This stop at Empire Beach would be the perfect way to end a day

Hike out to Empire Bluffs — just south of this location.

If you're chilly, Joe's Friendly Tavern offers a wonderful chili that will warm you up!