Engagement photo ideas · Chicago
From the Riverwalk to the lakefront to your favorite coffee shop: ideas from hundreds of Chicago engagement sessions to help you pick a place that feels like the two of you.
The best engagement photo ideas in Chicago mix a location you love with an activity: skyline walks, lakefront beaches, parks and neighborhoods with character.
Engagement Photos Ideas refer more to the locations of the photographs. The most important thing is to figure out which place represents you best. If you’re from out-of-town, I suggest photos with the wonderful city of Chicago as a backdrop, if you live here, then the best place is the one where you’re most comfortable.
If you’re a big baseball fan, I could do a baseball themed photoshoot at one of the baseball fields, if you love to exercise in the park, then the park would be great. The best photographs are where you’re at ease and where you feel free to be yourself. When you’re not comfortable it shows in the photos right away, and I don’t want that. I want you to look your best and therefore your photographs will look their best.
Engagement Photographs differ from couple to couple. Normally I photograph in a very photojournalistic way and very candid. I let you be yourself, as if I weren’t even there, and then capturing the moment as it happens. If, however, you need some guidance, I will be more than happy to give it to you. There are poses that look very candid, but are controlled and staged, which takes the stress off you, and still end up with a great look.
Some couples are very tense and anxious during the photoshoot, especially in the beginning, and that’s when I come in with a little direction. In the end all photographs are at their best quality and you finish up with magnificent photos for your save the date, invitations, or just portraits.
For a quicker service and a free quote call Gia now at local (312) 927-7238 to schedule a no obligation consultation.
Ideas by style
Four kinds of places that photograph beautifully in Chicago. Pick the one that sounds most like you, or combine two that are close together.
City and skyline
Lakefront and beaches
Parks and greenery
Neighborhoods
For timing tips, crowds and permits, see my guide to the best photo locations in Chicago. Winter session? Read the best Chicago engagement photo spots for winter.
Beyond the location
A coffee date, a bike ride on the lakefront trail, a baseball game, cooking at home.
Pets make couples relax instantly.
At the same restaurant or park where it all started.
A blanket and picnic, flowers from the market, a vintage umbrella on a rainy day.
Start at golden hour and stay for blue hour, when the city lights come on.
Need help with outfits? See what to wear for engagement photos. For prompts during the session, read my engagement session tips and tricks.
Questions
Popular choices are the Riverwalk, North Avenue Beach, Lincoln Park, the Lincoln Park Conservatory, Promontory Point and neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Old Town. The best place is always one that feels like the two of you.
Yes. Sessions cover one or two locations, so many couples choose two nearby spots, for example the Riverwalk and the Loop, and I spend time photographing instead of driving.
I can reschedule, move indoors to a conservatory or museum, or embrace the rain with clear umbrellas. Some of my favorite sessions happened in the rain.
A session with Gia Photos is $325 for about 1 to 1.5 hours. See real sessions on my Chicago engagement photographer page.
Yes. Bring a helper who can take your dog home after the first shots, so you can relax for the rest of the session.
No. Sessions are $325 for about 1 to 1.5 hours, whichever idea you choose.
Found your spot?
Sessions are $325, about 1 to 1.5 hours at one or two locations, and photographed by Gia herself.
Haven’t asked yet? I can be hidden nearby for a surprise proposal photo shoot in Chicago, then photograph your engagement session and wedding as your Chicago wedding photographer.