Premier photography

Studio in Lansing,
Michigan

Marvin Hall.

Marvin Hall is a Lansing-based professional photographer. For over 35 years, he has been helping people in the Lansing area and beyond create extraordinary, lasting memories that they'll cherish for years to come. He has made it his mission to help you capture an entire experience with renowned photography studios in Michigan, recognizing that it's not just about the photo, but the emotions, the passion, the love and care that brings people together.

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For Marvin Hall, Photography Is All About Capturing the Moment-Within-The-Moment

When you hire him to photograph your event, he'll take all the pictures you expect to see: venue shots, posed pictures, and photos that document the chain of events. But he'll also photograph the small, intimate and fleeting moments that show people in a candid way. A certain look, touch, glance or embrace … these un-staged emotions represent the true heart of any person or event.

Marvin has cultivated his photographic skills and philosophy for more than 35 years. Photography means so much to him that he pursued it even while working full-time and raising a family. Now, he has retired and can focus on photography, truly bringing his dream to life.

Although weddings were among the first events that Marvin shot back in the day, he enjoys a variety of photography. He provides the same level of attention and dedication during family portrait sessions as he does when shooting album covers or photographing car launches at Lansing's GM plant.

Equipment Makes a Huge Difference, But So Does Education

The specialized equipment Marvin works with allows him to capture high-quality photos even when conditions are less than ideal. With superior focusing capabilities, adjustable shutter speeds and numerous settings to allow the camera to pick up even the lowest levels of light, professional cameras do what Smartphones simply can't. With that said, even the best equipment does not guarantee quality pictures unless the person using it knows what to do.

Marvin didn't become an overnight guru, nor did he try to reinvent the wheel through trial and error. From early on, Marvin studied and learned from the best photographers in the industry, including Jerry Ghionis, Lindsay Adler and Sue Bryce. He also attends the yearly conference hosted by Wedding and Portrait Photographers International for continuing education and networking.

At this point in his career, Marvin also takes on the role of the teacher. His most recent seminar was given in Lansing and discussed sports photography for the Professional Photographers of America. He also takes on interns and helps them understand just how much work is involved in this profession. It's not always glamorous!

Lighting remains one of Marvin's main areas of interest. He takes pride in being able to set up auxiliary lighting for any kind of setting or mood. Is the natural Michigan sunlight not providing that warm, glowing feeling? Or do you need edgy and punchy lighting for your studio portrait? From either end of the spectrum, Marvin has the technical expertise to nail the lighting you imagine.

In fact, Marvin prefers to simply take an excellent photo in the first place rather than rely heavily on editing. Although he loves a good old fashioned black and white photo, he wants it to look like you're sitting right there, watching a sporting event or live band, or even just standing in the studio as a spectator.

And yes, he has a real studio! Studio M is approximately 1500 square feet, giving both you and Marvin the space to move around, get comfortable and be creative. This also comes as a huge advantage for winter photoshoots, since the weather in Michigan makes outdoor shoots possible only during certain times of the year.

The main shooting space at Studio M: a softbox on a stand, rolls of backdrop paper on a wall bar, and a bank of recessed ceiling lights over a wood floor

Although he works with assistants, makeup artists and second-shooters depending on the requirements of a session or event, when you hire Studio M, you hire Marvin. You get to take advantage of his years of education and practice. Marvin knows that getting in front of the camera can be a little nerve wracking, but the best photos can be captured when you relax and act like yourself.

That's why Marvin places great emphasis on pre-session consultations. You get to come to the studio, see the environment, meet Marvin, discuss your goals and ask your questions. Then, when it's time to do your session, you'll feel like you're spending time with a friend just having fun.

Ready to schedule your session or book your event? Get in touch!

The Studio M shopfront, with senior portrait prints displayed in the glass door and side window beneath the STUDIO M sign

Testimonials

Our family had an amazing time taking our Christmas photos by Marvin! He made us feel comfortable and free to be ourselves. He accommodated our diverse family by posing us in positions that were complimentary. We are so grateful to have found this gem in the Lansing area, and will be returning!

I have used Studio M twice now and each time have been beyond impressed with Marvin’s work. He is great to work with and so very talented. The photos we now have are absolutely spectacular. Thank you so very much!!!!!!