From a Michigan Family Photographer Who Knows the Joy of a Good Moo or Baa

By Kelseycharmayne Photography

If your kids are anything like mine, there’s something magical about being around animals—feeding goats, watching chickens strut around, and petting fluffy bunnies. Michigan is filled with local farms that welcome families and create unforgettable, hands-on experiences for little animal lovers.

As a family photographer in Livonia, Michigan, I often recommend these farms to my clients—not only for fun family outings but also as the perfect setting for playful, candid photo sessions.

Here are some of my favorite local Michigan farms where families can meet animals, make memories, and maybe even take photos!

🐐 1. Heritage Park – Taylor, MI | Michigan Farms

This beautiful park is a local favorite for so many reasons—historic buildings, walking trails, playgrounds, and, yes, a sweet little petting farm that opens seasonally. Goats, chickens, sheep, and other friendly farm animals are ready to meet curious kids. It’s a relaxed, down-to-earth place that feels like a hidden family-time gem.

Photo Tip: The vintage barns, open green spaces, and charming white fences make it a perfect photo setting—especially in the spring and fall.

🐴 2. Maybury Farm – Northville, MI

Nestled next to Maybury State Park, this working farm has goats, pigs, cows, chickens, horses, and seasonal baby animals. It also offers educational programs, a small farm-themed playground, and a market that’s open during the warmer months.

Why I love it: It’s peaceful and spacious, and the animals are so friendly—it’s one of the best spots to let kids roam and explore naturally while I capture the magic.

🐓 3. Hess-Hathaway Park – Waterford, MI

This local gem combines a wooden playground (hello photo ops!) with a working historical farm. The kids can interact with pigs, roosters, donkeys, and peacocks. Plus, the park is free to visit and has plenty of picnic space.

Bonus: You can turn this into a whole family day—bring snacks, let the kids play, and enjoy the beauty of being outside together.

🐇 4. Petting Farm at Domino’s Farms – Ann Arbor, MI

Located just outside Ann Arbor, this farm offers a more structured experience with pony rides, train rides, and up-close encounters with alpacas, rabbits, pigs, and more. There’s something lovely about watching kids light up as they gently pet a baby lamb.

Pro Tip: Weekday mornings are quieter and perfect for photo sessions or one-on-one time with the animals.

🐄 5. The Critter Barn – Zeeland, MI

If you're up for a mini road trip, The Critter Barn is worth the drive. They offer educational programs and open farm days where kids can learn about agriculture and even help with farm chores. It’s a hands-on experience that feels like a scene from a children’s storybook.

🐾 Why I Recommend Farms for Family Photos

Farms are filled with genuine moments—kids running barefoot, giggling as a goat sniffs their hand, or cuddling up on a hay bale. These locations give children something to do, making the session feel less like posing and more like playing. And that’s when the magic happens on camera.

Ready to Plan a Session with Your Favorite Critters?

Let's chat if you're a family of animal lovers (or you want something a little different for your next shoot)! I’d love to help you choose the perfect Michigan farm for your next family photo session.

📧 kelsey@kelseycharmayne.com

📞 734-521-7535

🌐 www.kelseycharmayne.com