CHICAGO LOCATION GUIDE

I am so excited to start planning our session!! This guide will give you some insight to some of my favorite Chicago shooting locations. You do not have to choose one of these locations if you had something else in mind. Although, the best part about choosing a recommended location is that I already know the best spots to go to as well as where to start & finish because I already know where the best lighting is in these spots! Which always leaves more time for getting the cutest photographs. Take a look and let me know if you have any questions!

PLEASE NOTE: in each section there are full gallery links so you can get a better idea of what a full session at these locations looks like. To access the full gallery links you just need to type in your email address to view the gallery. Some of these clients shot at multiple locations so if you are confused as to which location is which let me know and I will guide you!

Let’s Start Planning

Ambassador hotel

This rooftop feels classy in a low-key, cool way. One of the best parts? You can see the Hancock in the background which instantly gives you that “this is Chicago” skyline moment. Even better, the rooftop has to be reserved, so it’s not open to the public. That means you’re not dodging strangers or waiting for space. It’s just us up there. You get skyline views, fresh air, and room to move without an audience. Private + elevated.

Permit: I believe my client's told me the reservation fee was $300. You need to call beforehand and make a reservation.

Meeting spot: In the lobby of the Ambassador Hotel: 1301 N State Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60610

When is the ideal time to take photographs here? Any season! This is a great winter location because it is attached to a room that you can go in and out of to warm up.

Parking: Check out SpotHero or paid street parking.

Full Galleries: Noah + Lauren, Christina + Tommy (wedding getting ready), Lindsay + Phil

The inside is next level. The grand arches, sweeping staircases, marble floors, and all that soft natural light make everything feel elevated and dramatic in the best way. It has that old-world, European museum energy right in the middle of Chicago. And yes, we can photograph in front of actual paintings. The galleries add so much depth and character to your photos and definitely give a cinematic edge. Perfect for couples who want something unique and bold without stepping outside. Chic. Architectural. Very main-character-in-a-romantic-indie-film vibes.

Permits + Notes: They are not open on Tuesdays . They do not have a permit fee but you would need to purchase 3 tickets for all of us to enter. They do not allow large bags inside or florals. Make sure you read all of their restrictions HERE.

When is the ideal time to take photographs here? Any season!! The lighting is better a little earlier in the day. I love going right when they open to avoid big crowds. If you are doing multiple locations we can chat about how we want to break up the session!

Meeting spot: We would meet in the lobby of the Art Institute.

Parking: This is in the heart of Chicago's hustle + bustle so I definitely recommend snagging a Spot Hero or paid street parking on Wabash. Parking is always cheaper on SpotHero than paying at a parking garage.

Full Galleries: Grace + Andrew, Emma + Nic, Nicole + Ed

Art institute

Art Institute Gardens

If you want a little greenery without leaving downtown, this is such a dreamy option. Tucked beside the Art Institute, the gardens feel peaceful and romantic while still being steps from the city buzz. You get beautiful landscaping, ivy-covered walls, and soft, filtered light that makes everything feel extra glowy. It’s refined but relaxed. Classic but not overdone. Perfect for couples who want a touch of nature with that timeless Chicago backdrop.

Permit: No permit fee unless you want to rent the gardens out for just yourselves which isn't necessary.

When is the ideal time to take photographs here? The gardens change their hours a lot and are randomly closed some days so it is good to call beforehand to see if they are open. They are only open Spring- early fall.

Meeting spot: We would meet outside of the Art Institute.

Parking: This is in the heart of Chicago's hustle + bustle so I definitely recommend snagging a Spot Hero or paid street parking on Wabash. Parking is always cheaper on SpotHero than paying at a parking garage.

Full Galleries: Grace + Andrew, Nicole + Ed

Bar/ Restaurant

Let's make your session more unique to YOU! Have a favorite bar or restaurant? Maybe the location that you had your first date or any place meaningful to you! We can start there for drinks or apps! You will need to call beforehand and make sure they allow photography. Some places only allow us to go in before they open, some charge fees, + some don't allow lighting equipment (you can just ask if I am allowed to bring in a flash)! If we are going in before they open find out if you will still be able to order a drink because if you want martinis, champagne, etc for a prop sometimes you need to bring your own. Finding out those details beforehand will be super helpful. Also make sure you take down the name + number of whoever you communicate with so there isn't any confusion when we arrive- this has happened to be a couple times. Some will allow us to go in before they open which is always amazing to get photos at an empty bar! I definitely prefer going in before opening so that we aren't disturbing over guests.

Some Favs: Trivoli Tavern- free. Pearl Club- $250 fee, LuxBar- $250 fee, Gilt Bar- free, D4- Free, Lazy Bird- free.

Full Galleries: Hannah + Nathan, Peyton + Evan, Alex + Blake, Olivia + Ignacio, Kiera + Terry

Buckingham Fountain/ South Loop

If you want full-on, postcard Chicago… this is your moment. Buckingham Fountain with the skyline rising behind it is iconic in every sense. It’s grand, romantic, and feels straight out of a movie. When the fountain is on? Instant drama (the good kind). When it’s off? Still stunning, still timeless. Elegant. Scenic. Unmistakably Chicago.

When is the ideal time to take photographs here? This spot is gorgeous during all seasons! Even during the winter months if you can handle the cold. The fountain only operates from May- sometime in October but still such a pretty architectual background! Also amazing at sunrise!

Meeting spot: Buckingham fountain. I usually meet my clients here & end here so you are right back by your car.

Parking: There is paid street parking on Columbus Dr. (where Buckingham fountain is) but also check out Spot Hero if that's easier for you!

Full Galleries: Grace + Jack, Mayah + Eric, Maria + Troy, Ana + Alec

Chicago Cultural Center

If you want elegance without even trying… this is it. The marble staircases, intricate details, and that iconic glass dome make everything feel elevated and timeless. It’s classic Chicago architecture with a soft, romantic vibe.

Bonus: it’s indoors — so it’s perfect for unpredictable weather while still giving you that grand, editorial feel. Light-filled. Sophisticated. Effortlessly stunning. I definitely recommend this location earlier in the day since it can be pretty dark once the sun starts going down and we lose most of the natural light. They don't allow lighting equipment in here so natural light is essential!

Permit: None needed!

When is the ideal time to take photographs here? Any season!! The lighting is better a little earlier in the day. If you are doing multiple locations we can chat about how we want to break up the session! They are open daily 10am-5pm.

Meeting spot: In the lobby of the Cultural Center on the entrance off of Washington St.

Parking: Definitely recommend finding a Spot Hero or paid street parking as this location is in the heart of the hustle + bustle of Chicago.

Full Galleries: Ella + Zane

Chicago Board of Trade

The architecture here is insane- towering columns, art deco details, and that powerful, old Chicago energy. It feels grand, cinematic, and a little bit iconic-in-a-vintage-way. Perfect for couples who want something bold and editorial but still timeless. It’s giving classic city romance!!!!

Permit: No permit needed!

When is the ideal time to take photographs here? All! Great winter location as well since we are focused more on architecture than greenery.

Meeting spot: Outside the board of trade building: 141 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60604.

Parking: Check out SpotHero. There's also plenty of paid street parking in the surrounding area.

Full Galleries: Lindsay + Allen, Nicole + Cj, Kathleen + Ryan

Chicago Rooftop Parking garage

Okay hear me out — a parking garage rooftop… but make it chic. This little River North gem gives you the coolest building views without the crowds. Clean lines, open sky, textured concrete, and skyline layers in every direction. It feels modern, a little editorial, and very effortlessly cool. Because it’s not a major tourist spot, you can actually relax up there. No chaos. No distractions. Just city views and space to move. Simple. Urban. Underrated in the best way.

Permit: No permit needed! Just need to purchase parking to get into the lot.

When is the ideal time to take photographs here? Any time of year but absolutely amazing at sunrise! Sunset will always be a great option as well.

Parking: 50 E Ohio St. Chicago, IL. You can get a better price if you book beforehand through SpotHero.

Meeting Spot: At the very top of the parking garage.

Full Galleries: Mia Bruer, Logan + Natalie, Amber + Karly

Chicago Theater

If you want bold, iconic, movie-scene Chicago.. this is it. The marquee lights, the vintage sign, the energy of State Street… it’s classic for a reason. We typically step into the middle of the street to get that perfectly centered shot, so you do have to be comfortable in the median of the street! It’s dramatic, timeless, and screams Chicago in the best way.

Permit: No permit needed!

When is the ideal time to take photographs here? Any season! But if you are looking for a winter session this is one of my favorite locations! It is decorated so beautifully over the holidays. Remember, we will be shooting in the median so if we are photographing at prime rush hour time, it will be busy!

Meeting spot: Chicago Theater: 175 N State St. Chicago, IL 60601

Parking: Check out SpotHero or nearby lots! Lots of paid street parking as well.

Full Galleries: Sneh + Hirava, Kim + Jerry

If you love the beach vibe but don’t love the chaos of North Ave… this is your spot. Foster Beach is quieter, more relaxed, and way less crowded which means you can actually settle in and feel comfortable. Just open sky, soft sand, and that dreamy Lake Michigan glow. Peaceful. Romantic.

Permit: No permit needed!

When is the ideal time to take photographs here? Definitely late spring- early fall. Don’t want to be freezing on the beach! Sunrise is gorgeous for capturing the sun rising over the water and sunset is beautiful getting those gorgeous sunset hues!

Meeting spot: Foster Beach Concession Stand: Lakefront trail + W Foster Dr. Chicago, IL

Parking: There is a paid parking lot at: 5200 N Jean Baptiste Pointe du Sable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60640

Full Gallery: Jaime + Jose