We are Dan and Mary Carlson 

We are high school sweethearts and have been married for 23 years. We feel super blessed to spend most of our time together and we don't get sick of each other's company. Photographing weddings together is such a treat and a constant reminder of how lucky we are. Who doesn't feel super snuggly with your spouse after an awesome wedding! We have 10 amazing kids! Yes, TEN (not a typo). 5 of our children are biological and 5 are adopted through the Michigan Foster Care system and from China. So many children need not just homes but families and we are excited to have opened ours. So needless to say, we stay super busy. We are not only passionate about our family but also about our faith. We follow Jesus and seek to truly love God and others. For fun we love putting on some comfy clothes and binge watching a new show or taking a trip out the peninsula to taste some wine. Anytime we can get outside and explore is a good day. Camping is our favorite family vacation as long we it doesn't rain. Oh, and a good book is must! We can't wait to get to know you better.

I'm Dan

I have always loved photography. I saved up for a camera before I saved up for a car. I love everything about it. I love learning about the nature of light; how it works. I love that in a split second you have the ability to capture something beautiful and real. I also love working with people, making them feel comfortable and then capturing unforgettable moments. I also teach several photography classes through NMC's Extended Education program. Besides photography, I love music. The day that they came out with Amazon Music Unlimited was one of the best days of my life. Not exaggerating! I also play guitar and sing and lead worship at Mosaic Church in Traverse City. I enjoy playing and watching sports. Basketball is my favorite sport to play. Football is my favorite sport to watch. Yes, I'm a Lions fan and I'm telling you this is the year it all comes together...nope. I enjoy the outdoors as well, whether it is fishing out on a lake, camping, backpacking or just exploring out in the woods. Just ask Mary, if I come across any stream, crick or pond I'm ready to see what I can find.

I'm Mary

Of course I love spending time with my family. My oldest is 20 and my youngest is 5, so I get the best of both worlds. I also enjoy scrapbooking and attempting other crafty things. My biggest problem is that there are too many things to try. I also run a candy business, Seafoam Candy Company. Growing up my Dad and I loved seafoam candy. This is my little attempt to keep that nostalgia alive. Now my kids get to enjoy it as well. And if you are looking for a unique Wedding Favor you will have to check us out.

Testimonials

Testimonials

“Every time we look at the fabulous work that the Carlson's captured of our wedding day, it takes us back to each moment of our special day. They were fantastic to work with, the time and patience they had with our wedding party, was truly appreciated.We can't even imagine anything more special than the images that were captured. We will cherish each and every one of the amazing memories that Carlson Photography captured.
We truly can't thank them enough!”