Chicago Engagement Session Traveling To Chicago To Do An Engagement Shoot
January 7, 2021
Lincoln Park, Our First Chicago Engagement Photo Location
On a cool late summer day in 2020, I traveled to Chicago to do my first traveling engagement shoot. This bride and groom (who are awesome) are getting married in Dayton, Ohio but live in Chicago. After many changes due to the weather and COVID-19, I made my way to Lincoln Park, Chicago, early one Saturday morning. We started at a nature walk in Lincoln Park. It was incredibly beautiful to see this nature in the middle of the U.S.’s third-largest city. It had been a dream of mine to create beautiful photos at Chicago engagement photo locations all around the city.
Chicago Engagement Session At South Pond Nature Walk
On a cool late summer day in September 2020, I traveled to Chicago to do my first traveling engagement shoot. This bride and groom (are awesome) are getting married in Dayton, Ohio but live in Chicago. After so many changes due to weather and COVID-19, I made my way to Lincoln Park, Chicago, early one Saturday morning. I was amazed by how many choices I had at this Chicago engagement session at South Pond Nature Walk. BEAUTIFUL!!
Our first Chicago engagement location was the South Pond Nature Walk at Lincoln Park Zoo. A permit is required to do engagement photos at the South Pond Nature Walk. We spent one hour photographing various natural habitats around this beautiful lake and park.
“ My fiancé and I aren’t big picture-takers so we were both a little nervous but Kevin made the whole experience relaxed and enjoyable. And the pictures were stunning! Kevin posed us just enough to ensure we looked our best while still looking and feeling very natural. He not only photographed us beautifully but also captured all the beauty of the parks, lakefront, and city views of Chicago that we were hoping our photos would reflect. We are so happy with our engagement photos and looking forward to being photographed again by Kevin on our big day!” – Amanda H.
Ohio Street Beach, Our Second Engagement Photo Location
Our second Chicago engagement location was the Ohio Street Beach by Navy Pier. This beach is one of my favorites in Chicago as it sits directly next to downtown Chicago. It is quite a sight to photograph a bride and groom on a beach with large skyscrapers less than a half-mile in the distance. You can see the John Hancock Center to the left and Lake Michigan in front. We went early in the morning, but late afternoon would be the best time for engagement photos here. The buildings would block the sun and provide beautiful shadows. If I could photograph Amanda and Tom every week, I definitely would. They were an outstanding couple.
“He not only photographed us beautifully but also captured all the beauty of the parks, lakefront, and city views of Chicago that we were hoping our photos would reflect. We are so happy with our engagement photos and looking forward to being photographed again by Kevin on our big day!” – Amanda H.
Engagement Session At Civic Opera House Chicago Illinois
On a cool late summer day in September 2020, I traveled to Chicago to do my first traveling engagement shoot. This bride and groom (who are awesome) are getting married in Dayton, Ohio but live in Lincoln Park. After so many changes due to the weather and COVID-19, I made my way to Lincoln Park, Chicago, early one Saturday morning. The one thing this couple really wanted was engagement photos at Chicago’s Civic Opera House.
The Civic Opera House was beautiful from the outside. We were not able to get into the opera house, but we used the exterior. I love the giant columns and the interesting lighting. The leading lines make these photos really stand out. We had such a great time photographing all over downtown for four hours.
What I Love About Engagement Photos At Chicago’s Civic Opera House
I love the way the ornate sign above their heads that frames them nicely. I really just love these photos so much with these columns and leading lines. The time of day was perfect for lighting and shadows. I can’t stop looking at the series of leading lines in the photo. The wall to the right, the columns to the left, the sidewalk crack, and the chandeliers all direct your attention at this awesome couple.
“Kevin is an amazing photographer! My fiancé and I are in a unique situation in that we are getting married in Dayton but live in Chicago. We wanted to have our engagement photos in Chicago and Kevin was more than happy to work with us to make that happen.” – Amanda H.
Cool Chicago Engagement Photo Locations
If you’re planning an engagement photo shoot in the vibrant city of Chicago, you’re in for a treat! With its stunning skyline, gorgeous parks, and iconic landmarks, Chicago offers a plethora of cool locations that will make your engagement photos truly memorable. Here are some suggestions to help you find the perfect backdrop for your love-filled images:
Millennium Park
Start your photo shoot in the heart of downtown Chicago. Millennium Park offers a variety of unique backdrops, including the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, known as “The Bean.” Capture your reflections in its reflective surface or pose against the stunning city skyline.
Art Institute of Chicago
If you and your partner appreciate art and culture, the Art Institute of Chicago provides a stylish and sophisticated setting for your engagement session. The grand steps of the museum or the beautiful gardens surrounding it make for exceptional photo opportunities.
Chicago Riverwalk
For a romantic and scenic location, head to the Chicago Riverwalk. Stroll along the waterfront while professional photographers capture your love against the backdrop of picturesque bridges, beautiful gardens, and charming cafes.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park offers lush greenery. It has picturesque nature boardwalks and stunning skyline views. Historical structures like the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool make it an excellent choice for nature-loving couples. You can also include the Lincoln Park Zoo in your shoot for some fun and playful shots.
Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower
Capture the essence of Chicago’s architectural beauty by posing in front of these iconic landmarks. The vibrant Michigan Avenue bridge and the nearby Chicago River add charm and character to your engagement photos.
Garfield Park Conservatory
If you’re looking for a unique and botanical atmosphere, the Garfield Park Conservatory is the place to be. With its stunning collection of vibrant plants, you can find enchanting corners and intricate details that will make your engagement photos stand out.
Navy Pier
For a touch of nostalgia and a fun-filled backdrop, Navy Pier is an excellent choice. You can enjoy the stunning lake views. You can capture the vibrant Ferris wheel. Have a charming photo shoot on the carousel. You can also take photos near the iconic Navy Pier sign.
The 606 Trail
For couples who love a combination of nature and urban aesthetics, the 606 Trail offers a unique experience. This elevated park and trail system offers graffiti art, city views, and green spaces perfect for capturing your love story in a cool and unconventional setting.
Remember, Chicago is a city full of diverse locations and hidden gems. Explore different neighborhoods such as Wicker Park, Lincoln Square, or the trendy West Loop to find additional photo locations that resonate with your style and personality. With the right photographer and extraordinary backdrops, your engagement photos in Chicago are sure to be nothing short of amazing!
Check out all of recent and past engagement session blog posts and galleries here!
