The Ionia Free Fair is in town for ten days in July every year. It’s the heart of summer in Ionia, Michigan, a whirlwind of thrilling rides, captivating shows, and the irresistible aroma of fair food. This year, my student models and I had the unique opportunity to capture the magic of the fair through our annual Ionia Free Fair-themed photo shoots. From sun-drenched days to starlit nights, we explored the fairgrounds, creating stunning images that reflect the playful spirit of this beloved community event.

A Day at the Fair: Group Fun and Individual Style

This year’s Ionia Free Fair sessions were a blast! We kicked things off with a group shoot during the day, bringing together both new and returning student models. It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to connect, share laughs, and get comfortable in front of the camera. The energy was infectious, and the resulting photos perfectly capture the joy of a day at the fair with friends. Subsequently, all of my individual student model sessions took place after sunset. The twinkling lights of the fair created a magical backdrop as we explored the grounds, capturing each model’s unique personality.

Rides, Games, and Magical Moments at the Ionia Free Fair

To truly capture the essence of the Ionia Free Fair, we utilized the diverse landscape of the fairgrounds. From the iconic Ferris wheel to the classic carousel, the whimsical fun houses to the high-flying spaceship, we incorporated the vibrant rides as backdrops for our photos. Some lucky models even got to experience the thrill of a ride while I captured their joy – spinning in the teacups or taking a graceful turn on the carousel made for some truly special moments. Furthermore, the fair attendants were incredibly accommodating. One kind attendant, who managed a game stall, graciously allowed us to use their colorful setup for some fun and playful shots. These interactions and experiences added an extra layer of authenticity and excitement to the photo shoots.

Styling for Success at the Ionia Free Fair

Preparing for the Ionia Free Fair photo shoot was made easy with the resources provided to all my student models. While there weren’t any strict clothing requirements, I guided them toward the “Summer Styles” section of our comprehensive style guide and Pinterest board. These resources offered a wealth of outfit inspiration, from casual and comfortable looks perfect for daytime adventures to stylish ensembles that shimmered under the evening lights. Additionally, my “Student Model Dashboard” on my website provided all the essential information, including details about the Ionia Free Fair theme, location specifics, and even nail prep guides! The goal was to ensure everyone felt confident and prepared to shine in their photos. And shine they did! Each model brought their own unique flair to the shoot, resulting in a collection of images that are as diverse and vibrant as the fair itself.

The Ionia Free Fair photo shoot is an annual highlight of my student model program. It’s a chance to celebrate summer, create lasting memories, and showcase the incredible talent of my students. If you’re a high school student looking for an unforgettable photography experience, I encourage you to learn more about my program. Who knows, maybe next year you’ll be joining us under the bright lights of the Ionia Free Fair!

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The Student Model Program

The program is designed for middle & high school students (6th-12th grades) as a fun way to get their portraits taken by a professional photographer, feel like a model, and have a unique experience.

Students who apply are active on social media and are involved in school activities and their community. They have reliable transportation and have good time management skills to participate in 3 photo shoots a year.

Student Models have special Senior Portrait Pricing, receive cash referrals, exclusive themes, discounts on prints, digital images, products, and mini sessions. They have opportunities to earn Model Points, which can be applied to images or sessions.

The Student Model Program offers a variety of locations, poses, and a mix of individual and group photos with the other models. Student Models also gain confidence and learn time management and communication skills by working with a professional.

Ariel Lynn Photography | Senior Portrait Photographer | Ionia, MI