Vince Rockwell is a lifestyle portrait and fine-art photographer based in Ludington, Michigan (West Michigan). Specializing in authentic, story-driven portraits, he captures real people in their element—outdoors or in his downtown studio—focusing on vulnerability, honesty, and genuine connection rather than posed perfection.

I’m him. He are me. Me be he.

This intro photo? Taken right after my first earthquake in Salt Lake City, a sliver of light shining through the blinds.

I've been taking photos my entire life but only recently let myself call it my official path. Imposter syndrome had me convinced otherwise for years. Instead of photography full-time, I chased a wild variety of adventures:

• 7 years as an Army Combat Engineer

• 6 years as a Freelance Content Creator

• 2.5 years as a Television Producer

• 2 years as a Commercial Photo Retoucher

• 1 year as Ground Crew & “Aerial Marksmanship Instructor” for a helicopter hog hunting company

• 1 year as Content Creator at Black Rifle Coffee

• 1 year as Media Director for Fieldcraft Survival

• 4 months as a “Courier” for a urinalysis company (Self-declared motto: “Driving pee from A to B.”)

• 2 weeks as a loader at UPS

Along the way, I spent 8 years shooting concert photography for bands like Slipknot, Chevelle, POD, NonPoint, Saving Abel, and more (check my Concert page for favorites).

Eventually, it clicked: I love making images that tell stories. Now I focus on lifestyle portrait photography in West Michigan. I love outdoor sessions, on location shoots, but I do have a studio space as well right here in downtown Ludington.

Everyone has an incredible story that deserves to be told. Meeting folks, hearing their adventures, and creating honest images together lights me up.

My Photography Philosophy

Photography means “write with light,” but the real magic is the relationship. It's about vulnerability in a flash: how open you're willing to be, and how much heart you show. I show mine constantly. And I help clients do the same.

In an era of AI slop and heavy handed edits, I keep it real: minimal Photoshop, authentic stories, no cookie-cutter looks. My goal? Lead the charge for honest, authentic storytelling.

I “burned the boats” years ago. No backup plans, just full commitment to photography. I book one session a day to give every client my best energy and light. Whether it's senior portraits, family stories, personal branding, equine, sports/action, or fine-art concepts, I go where needed to get the shot that feels true to you.

Scroll down to see me featured in Bold Journey Magazine and Voyage Michigan for my journey from military life to authentic creator. Schedule a time to visit my studio!

📸 @vince.rockwell on Instagram & TikTok