Farm Photography in Michigan: Sunrise at Bankson Lake Farm
- sarahrypma
- Jul 24
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 26
The Mystery of Sunrise
Farm photography in Michigan takes on new meaning at sunrise, especially when it’s telling the story of a place like Bankson Lake Farm—an organic farm in Lawton, Michigan built from one man’s dream into a thriving local food hub

In the early morning stillness, the farm is cloaked in shadow. There’s a quiet mystery to this view—what exists in those dark shapes, waiting for the sun to reveal?
From Chalkboard Dream to Reality
For owner Dan, this land represented possibility. Years ago, he worked in HR for a fortune 500 company, far removed from the rhythm of soil and seasons. One night, scrolling through Google Earth, he spotted a patch of land in Southwest Michigan.

Dan bought the property, packed up his life, and moved across the country. What started as a chalkboard sketch—drawn lines of greenhouses, orchards, and fields—has since grown into a vibrant organic farm.

A Tree That Holds Generations of Stories

When Dan moved in, the neighbors saw Dan trimming the oak tree on the property. They were worried he was going to cut it down. Their concerns weren’t just about losing shade, they were concerned about losing history. For some families, this tree had hosted weddings and gatherings for decades. Instead of removing it, Dan gave it space to thrive. It now stands as a symbol of continuity on a farm built on change—proof that honoring the past and embracing the future can coexist.
Bringing the Farm to Life
From the first light over the orchards to the hands that pull fresh harvests from the soil, Bankson Lake Farm shows how vision and hard work can transform land into community. These photos honor the small moments—chalkboard plans, sun-warmed produce, and the people who make it all happen.













Farm Photography in Michigan - Tell Your Story
From chalkboard sketches to sunrise harvests, Bankson Lake Farm proves how vision and hard work can turn land into a thriving community hub.
If you’re a grower, food hub, or agricultural business, let’s capture the heart behind your work Contact me today to start planning your farm photography session in Michigan.
For a behind the scenes look at this session: