Point Betsie Lighthouse framed by Ice-Covered Shrubs

This photo of the Point Betsie Lighthouse was taken between some of the ice-covered shrubs in front of the lighthouse. From Frankfort, drive north along M22 for about 4 miles. Just after you pass the Crystal Lake Yacht Club, turn left onto Point Betsie Road. Park at the end of the road and then walk out to the beach behind the chains and around to the lighthouse bib. You will likely have to walk up some very slippery ice to find a position between some ice formations to frame your shot, so make sure to be properly dressed.

You'll capture the full effects of winter here in late-December through mid March. Visit after it's been below freezing and very windy for several consecutive days. During the winter, this area is often marked by moody lake-effect clouds that will add an element of intrigue to your image.

For similar lighting, head to this spot during sunset when the lighthouse light has been turned on, but it isn't yet dark enough so the light will still visibly "paint" the scene. You also want to make sure the ice is decently lit by lingering sunlight.

Be sure to dress appropriately! Ice cleats, spikes and crampons are not optional. The ice will be smooth and without appropriate grip, you could easily fall and potentially land in the frigid lake.

Spend some time exploring the ice formations. They'll change each time the ice melts and you'll want to find a view between some of the classic blue ice pillars that frames the lighthouse on either side.

Get relatively close to the lighthouse so that a wide-angle lens (I used a 24mm) will not diminish the size of the architecture. Also, a lens of this length will allow you to incorporate the ice so that it takes up a significant portion of the frame.

If you have a tripod and it will stay in place, you can always shoot the same image at different focal planes and focus stack them in post.

The city of Frankfort is just a few miles down the road. Cinnamon bites at Stormcloud Brewery are a nice treat and they always have fun popcorn options. And of course, there's always their craft beer and real food, too!

The Frankfort Lighthouse is also right there and it's often encased in ice as well.