About Our Studio

Betsy’s Photography is located just outside Ann Arbor, Michigan, in Dexter, Michigan. Portrait sessions are held at our residential studio or on location throughout Dexter, Ann Arbor, and more. Studio hours are by appointment only, allowing us to dedicate our full attention to you.

About Betsy

Twenty-five year old Betsy Finn is an award-winning photographer whose photographs have received awards locally and internationally. Betsy was named “Top 7 Photographer of 2008” by the Professional Photographers of Michigan, and her work was selected to be on display for the 117th International Exhibition of Professional Photography. In 2006 she earned the designation of Certified Professional Photographer (CPP).

Betsy has an ever-changing list of recent accomplishments. From participating in print competitions and winning awards, to continuing education and recent publicity, Betsy is constantly finding ways to take her technical and artistic skills to new levels. Read about Betsy’s News, Awards, & Accomplishments.

Betsy’s photographic experience is supplemented by degrees in Photography and Business Management from Hope College (Holland, MI), as well as photographic studies at Michigan State University. She regularly participates in continuing education courses offered by the Great Lakes Institute of Professional Photography and other professional organizations.

Why did Betsy Become a Photographer?

Betsy’s inspiration to become a photographer involved her family and her love of creativity, and is best best answered in Betsy’s own words.

“I’ve always been interested in creative things - in first grade I convinced my grandmother to teach me piano; when I was a little older I would run an art store in my parents’ basement, and the walls on the basement stairs were covered with ‘art gallery’ items. So photography was a natural creative outlet that I became interested in. My parents have a picture of me when I was about 3 where I am holding a box of film - at 5, there is a snapshot of me peering through a ‘big’ Nikon SLR and telephoto lens. Those snapshots are actually more a reflection of my natural curiosity and desire to try new things than a sign that I was ‘born to be a photographer.’ Photography, like my other creative outlets, came naturally to me as part of my desire to capture and document life around me - moments and memories that cannot be repeated.”

“My grandfather (who passed away in March 2007) was a quiet but steady influence in my enthusiasm for photography. Two of his sons (one being my dad) love photography as a hobby; probably due to my grandfather’s interest in the art. I would rarely see him without a camera in hand, and the photographs he took on vacations were on display throughout their home – the Giza pyramids, a farmhouse in the Swiss alps, and even hot air balloons. These images encouraged me to see the wonder in the world around me!”

“I more recently discovered how my grandfather became interested in photography. He served in Signal Corps during World War II, and was seriously injured during the Battle of the Bulge. His injuries took over a year to heal. During that time, two of his friends (who escaped serious injury) were stationed at the Leitz factory in Germany (where Leica cameras were made). Each soldier was allowed one Leica camera — since they had to pick it up in person, his friends were unable to get my grandfather the Leica. They did send him another camera, though, and that camera was the one that piqued his interest in the art of photography.”

Professional Affiliations

Betsy is dedicated to being the best, and being part of professional affiliations helps photographers like Betsy in continually striving to increase in knowledge and understanding. Seminars and courses allow Betsy to further develop her creativite and technical understanding of the art of photography.

Betsy is a member of Professional Photographers of America (PPA), Professional Photographers of Michigan (PPM), and Detroit Professional Photographers Association (DPPA). Belonging to these professional organizations allows her to continually improve as a photographer, both creatively and technically. PPA, PPM, and DPPA all offer continuing education courses for professional photographers looking to raise their business to the next level. Additionally, Betsy is a member of the Dexter Area Chamber of Commerce.

History

Just in case you were looking for Betsy Ash and can’t seem to find her, it’s because she got married! In 2005, Shortly after Betsy became engaged, Betsy’s Photography was created to provide Betsy’s clients with a smooth transition from her maiden name to her married name (she and Steven Finn were married in January 2006). Prior to her engagement in 2005, Betsy photographed professionally using her maiden name, Elizabeth Ash Photography (yes, Betsy is a nickname for Elizabeth!). So if you were looking for Betsy Ash, rest assured that she and Betsy Finn are one and the same. Her name (and studio name) may have changed, but we have continued offering portrait and wedding services to clients in Southeast Michigan, and have had many happy clients. Hear what our clients have to say.