Carissa Markuson Photography

07/07/2026

Well... my part-time passion project somehow found itself nominated for Best Photographer in the Detroit Lakes Best of the Best. 😂

I'm beyond honored (and honestly a little surprised!) to be included.

Photography may not be my full-time job anymore, but it will always have a huge piece of my heart. Between helping people buy and sell homes, planning dream vacations, and soaking up every minute of grandma life, I still look forward to every single session.

The best part? My clients have this funny way of becoming friends, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

And can we talk about this category for a second? It is absolutely STACKED with talent. I'm incredibly grateful to be nominated alongside such a phenomenal group of photographers. These women are not only amazingly talented, they're supportive, encouraging, and they make our creative community so special. Honestly... I think we all deserve to win.

If I've had the privilege of photographing you or your family over the past 15 years—or if you've simply enjoyed following along—I would be so grateful if you'd cast a vote for me. 💛 You can vote once a day through July 18 using the link below.

P.S. I do have a few September session openings if you've been thinking about updating your photos. And if you happen to need a REALTOR® or someone to help plan your next vacation... apparently I have a hard time sticking to just one career. 😉

LINK------> https://www.bestofthemidwest.com/detroit-lakes/best-of-the-best-detroit-lakes #//

06/29/2026

I’m so honored! ☺️

I’m beyond grateful to have been nominated for Best Photographer/Video Production in the 2026 Best of the Best Awards!

Thank you to everyone who has trusted me to capture your families, seniors, weddings, businesses, and special moments over the years. Your support means everything to me.

I’m also incredibly honored to be nominated alongside such a talented group of photographers. They all rock!

If you’d like to support me, voting is open now through July 18th! Every vote is so appreciated, but most of all, thank you for believing in me and my business. ❤️

You can vote daily.
Here’s the correct link: https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.bestofthemidwest.com_detroit-2Dlakes_best-2Dof-2Dthe-2Dbest-2Ddetroit-2Dlakes-23__&d=DwMGaQ&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=azZOjxGvnQH3rKQmyoRpYRjQ-Qr2Axa-77mDdy-Ky3s&m=0pacRWG_WoZ03cDzFULIaFMkRon3ozJnBAq3WHaYvUTYhcENGe8M9GXiRbXJeHHx&s=waecF4yPUR5RgvIVYzkLizwJYxUkH_TEGV2xAthd1Rs&e=2.718
Under Businesses & Services

The nomination phase kicks off the competition, giving you the power to nominate the businesses or individuals you believe are the most deserving of the "Best of the Best" title. Select a category below to nominate a business or individual.

05/18/2026

To the incredible Class of 2026 seniors… congratulations. ❤️

You did it. High school is complete, and I hope you take a moment to truly realize what an accomplishment that is. It has been such an honor getting to know so many of you through your senior sessions this year. Watching your personalities shine, hearing about your dreams, and capturing this exciting season of life has meant more to me than you know.

As you step into your next adventure, keep chasing the things that light you up. Be kind. Work hard. Do good in the world no matter what direction you choose. Your future is wide open, and I truly believe each one of you has something special to offer.

I am so proud to know you and so excited to watch you grow into everything you are meant to become.

Congratulations, Class of 2026. The best is still ahead. ✨

04/12/2026

Happy 18th to Peyton! Have a fabulous day.

03/25/2026

If senior photos have been on your mind lately… you’re not alone 😉
This is the fun part—picking outfits, dreaming up locations, and creating something that feels totally you.
Class of 2027, booking is open and I’m so excited for this season already.
Booking is officially underway for Class of 2027, and availability is limited. I’d love to get you on the calendar.

03/18/2026

Summer nights like this… yeah, I want them ASAP ☀️🌊
Golden skies. Barefoot in the water. That effortless glow.

This is exactly what I’m dreaming about heading into senior season ✨
And I am so ready for nights like these with my seniors.

Who else is counting down to summer?? 👀

02/28/2026

Senior season is officially ON and you guys came in HOT. 🙌

We opened bookings nearly a month ago and the calendar is filling faster than I expected. Prime summer and early fall dates are already disappearing — and once they’re gone, they’re gone.

If you want first pick of your month, your vibe, your golden-hour glow… book now. Click the link and secure your date before someone else does.
https://carissamarkusonphotography.pixieset.com/booking/

I’m obsessed with creating senior sessions that actually reflect who you are. No copy-and-paste sessions here.
Every senior is different, and your photos should show that. Bring your dogs, your hobbies, your jersey, your boots, your lake spot — tell me your favorite places and let’s build something completely unique to you. Let’s make your senior session iconic, confident, and unforgettable.

Class of 2027 — this is your moment. Don’t wait on it.

02/17/2026

ATTENTION CLASS OF 2027 + PARENTS
Senior year is closer than you think… and the girls who plan ahead? They win the season.
I just dropped a brand new blog post breaking down exactly how to prepare for senior photos — from what month fits your vibe best, to what to wear, to how to choose locations that actually reflect who you are. This isn’t stiff yearbook energy. This is iconic. Intentional. Headliner-level senior portraits right here in Detroit Lakes.
Parents — if you want this milestone documented in a way that feels elevated, organized, and completely stress-free, this is your starting point.
Seniors — if you want lake sunsets, wildflower fields, downtown edge, or that bold main-character confidence captured the right way… you need to read this.
Your senior season only happens once.
Let’s do it right.
✨ Click the link.
✨ Read the guide.
✨ Start planning your moment.
You look like my next senior.

https://www.carissamarkusonphotography.com/blog/getting-ready-for-your-iconic-senior-pic-moment-top-4-details-before-you-book/