Empire Bluffs view of Lake Michigan

I took this photo at the Empire Bluffs, overlooking Lake Michigan and North Bar Lake. About two miles south of Empire, take Wilco Road to the NW off of M22, in the middle of a gentle curve. Park at the well-marked Empire Bluffs trail head, about 0.5 miles down Wilco Road towards the left. Follow the signs for the hike. You'll pass through verdant mixed hardwoods and one notable view through the trees. A bench is placed here for a quick rest and photo op before continuing to the main lake overlook. Once at the edge of the bluffs, the trail will continue on a series of boardwalks. Find this spot just off the trail (reference the GPS), at the northern edge of the last viewing platform.

The summer months (July through August) are the best times to photograph the Empire Bluff and catch the purple flowers in bloom with the rich blue sky in the background.

For similar conditions, visit during mid-day and late-afternoon when the natural light highlights the flowers and the distant bluffs. Arriving later in the day could mean that you'll get less of the water's rich and varied blue-green hues.

I used an iPhone at this location, but a wide-angle 35mm lens would looks great here. A wide-angle lens allows you to encompass the view nicely.

I recommend using a polarizer to cut reflections from the water and foliage resulting in richer, less-harsh colors.

Try positioning the horizon — according to the rule of thirds — in the top third of the photo.

Anchor the corner of the image with flowers in the foreground, leading the eye in from the lower right.

I always recommend stopping for ice cream at the cash-only Tiffany's Cafe.

Get an upscale iced chocolate drink at Grocer's Daughter Chocolates.

In the nearby south, you'll find Esch Beach. It's a great swimming destination that is more open that Empire Beach.