Detroit is for Lovers is a motto I firmly believe in. Detroit has been my muse and inspiration since I first picked up a camera, and I’ve always strived to showcase the beauty that exists in this often misunderstood city. As a Detroit wedding photographer, I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the city than by documenting a couple’s love for one another alongside their love for Detroit itself. I’ve been a Detroiter since 2012, and I take pride in finding unique locations for wedding photography—places that only someone who truly lives and breathes the city would know. Let’s explore Detroit together.

While Detroit is home base for Ryan Southen Photography, I’ve also photographed weddings across the country and internationally, so venues outside the Detroit area are always welcome.

A little about myself and my approach

I’m a longtime architecture and design enthusiast and once studied to become an architect before discovering photography. That background strongly influences my work and visual style. I’m always looking for thoughtful compositions and ways to incorporate the surrounding environment when photographing couples—something I’m consistently told is a defining element of my photography. Couples often describe my work as creative and timeless, and the experience of working with me as relaxed and enjoyable.

I’m not big on self-promotion and would much rather get to know you than talk about myself, so I’ll let my couples’ words speak for me:

“Ryan is awesome. He isn't pushy, he's easy to get ahold of, very flexible with scheduling, super patient and fun to be around.”

“We were so comfortable with him and he is the ONLY person I know that can get my husband to pose & smile for a photograph.”

“Ryan was super down to earth and easy to work with from the very beginning.”

“From the moment we met Ryan, we felt like we were just spending time with an old friend.”

“Before my wife and I had our first look, my heart felt like it was in my throat but Ryan had a way of eliminating the nerves and making the entire process, truly special.”

Every wedding and every relationship is unique, and I genuinely enjoy getting to know each of my couples. It’s important to me that you feel comfortable and at ease on your wedding day—this allows me to document the day naturally and unobtrusively, while still stepping in when needed to ensure we create the strongest images possible. Because this relationship matters so much to me, I book a limited number of weddings each year.

My goal with every wedding is to capture my couples and their relationships in an honest, genuine way—while having a great time in the process. If this sounds like the kind of photographer you’d want by your side on your wedding day, I’d love to connect. I’m always happy to hop on a call, schedule a Zoom, or grab a coffee (or beer) to talk about your wedding and how I can help document it.