Portraits • Sports • Performing Arts
I approach all shoots with one goal in mind: to capture a real moment exactly as it happened. That shapes my style regardless of whether it's a portrait session, a football game on a late Friday night, or an exciting theater performance. Every photograph on this website reflects a real person, a real story, and a real memory.
I'm John Meade, a Northern Michigan photographer based in Leelanau County. I serve Leelanau, Benzie, and Grand Traverse Counties as well as select areas of Antrim and Charlevoix Counties.
I photograph relaxed portraits, high-action sports, and emotion charged moments on-stage. I aim for capturing real, raw experiences in the most authentic way. When working with me one-on-one, you can expect to create a genuine connection; however, I am focused and unobtrusive during more serious sessions, such as sports or performing arts.
I've loved taking pictures since I was 8 years old, but have only recently gotten into this seriously. In the last year, I have shot photos for Glen Lake's 2026 Senior Class (Scholarship Awards Night, Whole-Class Grad Photo, and Cap-Throwing) in addition to Easling Construction Company's 50th Anniversary ad (published in the Leelanau Enterprise).
I love to freeze moments that would have otherwise disappeared. I want you to look back on these images years from now and be grateful to have those moments captured. I want you to get stuck in the moment.