Welcome
My mission is to use portrait photography to tell your story.
My name is Rod Arroyo, and I am the owner/principal photographer. I hope to have the opportunity to answer your questions today through an email (rod[at]portraitsbyrod.com), phone call (248-403-9500), or use the form below.
Why choose Rod Arroyo Photography? What makes you different?
I’m a storyteller. You have a story to tell and I want to help you share that story.
Sometimes you just need a great portrait – you looking right into the camera with an expression that reflects confidence and pride in what you do and who you are. My goal is to deliver that amazing portrait. In addition, I want to provide you with additional images of you telling your story.
I am also a believer in the power of black-and-white imagery. I realize you may only be looking for a full-color portrait. I will also provide you with an alternative black-and-white image. Black and white photography is timeless, and I process black and white imagery in a unique way that makes a statement.
What made you decide you wanted to be a photographer?
There was that moment in high school, standing in a darkroom developing my first black and white print, when I saw the image from my camera appear before my eyes. I was hooked on photography from that point on.
I’ve worked for a daily newspaper and I worked as a freelance photographer for an online news organization. In addition, I have been fortunate to receive training and instruction from some of the best photographers in the world.
I started my company in 2000, and I have two websites: Portraits by Rod and City-Photos.com. Now, I’m ready to create some great images for you.
Contact Me (form link)
Where can we find you (Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, etc)?
Facebook page is facebook.com/PortraitsByRod
My website is PortraitsByRod.com
LinkedIn page is https://www.linkedin.com/company/portraitsbyrod/
My Pinterest page: pinterest.com/PortraitsByRod
Fine Art America page: fineartamerica.com/profiles/rod-arroyo.html
500px Page: 500px.com/cityphotos
Where are you located?
My work hub is based in Grosse Pointe Farms, Michigan. Most of my work is done within 15 miles of this location.
What kind of gear do you use?
World-class gear. Nikon or Canon? Neither. Most of my images are captured with Leica equipment, which I believe is the finest camera gear that exists for the work I do. It makes a difference and you will see it in your images.
What is your favorite type of photography?
The majority of my portrait work is corporate headshots, corporate events, and high school seniors. I also enjoy branding photography, where I work with businesses to build a library of digital images. I also enjoy photographing musicians and city photography. Just put a camera in my hands and I am pretty happy.
What do you find is the best way to promote your photography business?
The best advertising is word of mouth – customers sharing their experience with friends and colleagues. We work hard to have a significant presence on the internet.
My work is not for everyone. Some people want a quick studio shot and no more. I work on location. I want to create something more impactful. That is the message I want to send in my marketing and networking efforts.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Everywhere. When I am driving or walking, my mind is constantly thinking about great backdrops for portraits or city photography. I often return to these places with my camera to capture the images that merely flashed by in an instant. I am naturally drawn to urban places for photo sessions. Often there is so much history that can be part of an image that is new and fresh.
What’s your favorite lens?
My favorite portrait lens is the Leica APO Summicron SL 75mm F/2. For wider shots, I use the Summilux 28mm f/1.7 that comes with the Leica Q2.
Do you shoot RAW or JPG?
Almost every shoot is done in RAW. It gives me the greatest flexibility in processing.
What program do you use to edit images?
Most of my work is done in Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Camera Raw, and Adobe Photoshop.
What else do you like to do?
Spend time with family, travel, play the alto saxophone, walk and run (2 marathons and 3 half marathons so far), and cook.
Tell us one thing about you most people probably don’t know.
I wrote a family history featuring the Arroyo side of my family.
What is the most important piece of photography advice you want to share?
Take the time to get some professional photos taken. Your photo image is key to a great first impression in business. Also, for senior portraits, you are only a senior in high school once.
Take the next step and work with me to create great images that reflect your personality.
Client Feedback
“Brilliant. Artistic. Insightful. This man captures the story of every person or place in front of his camera. He completely changed the way we tell our story of impact and purpose at Crossroads of Michigan. The world can now see us for who we are; inside and out. Only an artist can find the beauty behind poverty, strife, tears, and hopelessness. His photographs are our story.”
Bill S.
“We could not have asked for a more wonderful experience for Rachel’s senior pictures. She is my first child, so I was completely new at all this. I was recommended to Rod and I can say that I was more than satisfied with the results. Not only were the pictures amazing, but the photo shoot was organized and fun!! Rod has a great personality and he knows just the right way to shoot the picture with the light and background. I would definitely recommend and use Rod again for my two son’s graduation and anything else that comes up in between.”
Stephanie G.
“Rod is the most amazing photographer ever – he has photographed my children on numerous occasions and always manages to bring out the best in them (which with three boys can be a bit of a challenge at times!) He always makes the boys feel comfortable and captures the very essence of them. I also have several of Rod s city prints in my office because the quality of his work is absolutely incredible. My clients always comment on the pictures when they come in. I have recommended Rod to several other people and they all have had the same positive experience that I have had. Simply put, if you want someone to capture the true personalities of your children and you want the best, hire Rod.”
Joe Z.
“From the moment we started planning the shoot, Rod displayed a level of professionalism and creativity that immediately put us at ease. He took the time to listen to our ideas and preferences, and he effortlessly translated them into stunning photographs. His attention to detail and commitment to capturing the perfect shot is truly commendable.
During the session, Rod’s friendly and personable demeanor made the experience enjoyable and relaxed. What sets Rod apart is not just his technical skill but also his artistic eye. Rod’s dedication to his craft is evident in every aspect of his work, from the initial consultation to the final product. He goes above and beyond to ensure his clients are delighted with the results, and I can confidently say that we are thrilled with his work!
If you’re in search of a talented photographer who is passionate about his work, personable, and dedicated to delivering exceptional results, look no further than Rod. He is a true artist behind the lens, and I wholeheartedly recommend him for all your photography needs
Renee G.
“I honestly could not think that my senior pictures could have come out any better than they did. Rod was very about “me” when it came to my session; he worked around my schedule and what I wanted in my pictures. I don’t think you can get any better than that. I had fun during my session and was so relaxed, I was able to show the real me in my pictures and Rod captured it all.”
Anais W.
“Rod was a joy to work with; he has a real eye on getting perfect shots. I was pleasantly surprised on how great all the pics were. We had a lot to chose from and Rod made the process simple. I will always recommend going to a Rod for a professional experience and getting unique pictures you can enjoy for a lifetime.”
Michelle L.
“We had a wonderful experience working with Rod for my daughter’s senior pictures. Rod had great ideas for locations and shots and really captured my daughter’s beauty and character. It was easy and fun, and now we have awesome photos that we’ll treasure.”
Terri K.
“Rod was terrific to work with. He is professional, relaxed and had many suggestions to help my daughter and I enjoy the photography process. We walked around town, found interesting places to photograph her and poses which reflected her personality and interests during her senior photo shoot. The pictures look great. His suggestions about choices of paper and poses chosen proved accurate when we received the final pictures. I would definitely choose him again for another event!”
Lynn R.
“I would recommend Rod for all your photography needs!”
Margie A.