About Us
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
About GLIP
At the Great Lakes Institute of Photography (GLIP), we believe education should be inspiring, hands-on, and community driven. Since 1995, GLIP has provided photographers of all skill levels with an unforgettable learning experience designed to help artists grow creatively, technically, and professionally.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional refining your craft or a newer photographer building confidence behind the camera, GLIP offers opportunities to challenge yourself, expand your vision, and connect with others who share your passion for photography.
One of the most unique aspects of GLIP is the incredible variety of instructors and classes available each year. Our courses are led by experienced professionals from across the industry who are passionate about education and dedicated to helping students elevate their work. From lighting and posing to editing, business, marketing, and creative storytelling, there is truly something for every photographer.
But GLIP is more than just classes. It’s an experience.
Throughout the week, students and instructors come together not only in the classroom, but also during social events, evening gatherings, hospitality room conversations, and our annual themed party. These moments create opportunities to network, collaborate, share ideas, and build lasting friendships with photographers from across the Great Lakes region and beyond.
GLIP 2027 will once again call the beautiful DoubleTree by Hilton Bay City – Riverfront home. Located along the scenic Saginaw River, the venue provides stunning waterfront views, comfortable accommodations, and endless inspiration for creativity throughout the week.
Most importantly, GLIP is built on community. The connections formed here often extend far beyond the classroom, creating a supportive network of photographers who encourage, inspire, and lift one another up year after year.
At GLIP, you’re not just attending a photography school.
You’re becoming part of a family passionate about creativity, education, and the art of storytelling through photography.
We cannot wait to welcome you to GLIP 2027.
Meet The Team
Jolene Kunde
Vendor and Sponsorship
Jolene Kunde is a Michigan Upper Peninsula native and professional photographer with over 20 years of experience behind the camera. As a studio owner for the past 7 years, her work focuses on boudoir, cosplay/fantasy, and underwater photography—blending artistry with empowerment and storytelling.
Deeply inspired by her surroundings, Jolene also spends time capturing the ever-changing beauty of Lake Superior and the northern lights. She is a Certified Professional Photographer through PPA and is passionate about supporting fellow photographers through education, collaboration, and community.
Sarah Fulmer-Ignash
Social Media - Website developmet
A Professional Photographer and Graphic Designer for over 15 years, Sarah currently has a boutique portrait studio in Goodrich, Michigan. Inspired by her life in the Pacific, she enjoys vibrant colors in her imagery while exploring the dynamics of light.
A college instructor, Sarah was known for her relaxed, approachable teaching style. Her background also includes extensive work as a project manager and graphic designer for both small businesses and large institutions, giving her a deep understanding of how branding shapes the client experience.
Outside the studio, Sarah enjoys building LEGO creations with her husband and their two young sons, and spending quiet moments with the family’s beloved dogs.
Kurt Robertson
Treasurer - M.Photog., Cr., CPP
Kurt is a highly accomplished portrait photographer and studio owner with over three decades of experience in the photography industry. Based in Michigan, Kurt has built a career marked by innovation, leadership, and a deep commitment to photographic excellence and education.
As the owner and lead photographer of Studio One in Jackson, MI, since 2006, Kurt has served clients across a wide range of specialties, including senior, family, children, and wedding photography. He’s known for developing highly effective sales and pricing strategies, training and leading successful teams, and establishing a premier brand presence through thoughtful marketing and product development. His technical expertise sets him apart—having written custom software to streamline business operations and manage digital archives, Kurt seamlessly blends creativity with advanced problem-solving.
Before launching Studio One, Kurt held key leadership roles at Paris Studios in Muskegon, MI, where he served as Senior Manager and Vice President. There, he redesigned the company’s sales strategy, resulting in a 400% increase in promotional sales, and led the transition from an optical to digital production model—creating and integrating custom enterprise-level software solutions for high-volume workflows.
Kurt’s photography career began in the late 1980s and has taken him throughout the Midwest and Southeast. He’s worked as a photographer, trainer, and studio manager, consistently mentoring others and building systems for sustainable success.
A Certified Professional Photographer since 1998, Kurt earned his Master of Photography degree in 2012 and his Photographic Craftsman degree in 2022 through the Professional Photographers of America. His work has been featured in Loan Collection honors from 2009 through 2022 and has earned him numerous accolades, including MTPPA Photographer of the Year for 2011 and 2012, and state recognition for the highest-scoring CPP image and Top 7 image in 2010.
Known for his analytical thinking, effective leadership, and passion for educating fellow photographers, Kurt remains a respected figure in the industry—committed to pushing the craft forward and helping others grow in both business and artistry.