20 CHICAGO WEDDDING PHOTOGRAPHY LOCATIONS
When it comes to wedding photography, we Chicago wedding photographers can proudly say that we live and work in one of the most beautiful cities for capturing weddings. Chicago is an architectural marvel nestled on the shores of the lake, with stunning sandy beaches and breathtaking skyline views. This city has it all—from natural landscapes and urban industrial spaces to magnificent bridges and iconic architecture. With years of experience photographing weddings in this incredible city, we’ve discovered the best locations for unforgettable wedding photos. In this blog post, we’ll share tips on how to choose the perfect spot for your special day and how to make the most of Chicago’s magic in your wedding photography.
1. chicago board of trade
The Board of Trade is one of the most iconic and frequently visited locations for wedding photography in Chicago. This unique spot offers endless opportunities for creative shots, from wide-angle captures to stunning telephoto lens perspectives. With its many diverse areas, the location provides a variety of settings that are perfect for different styles of wedding photos.
Though it is typically in the shade, the time of day when the sun breaks through creates the perfect lighting for breathtaking shots. We’ve worked here many times, and i we’re excited to share some of our favorite photo ideas from this incredible location.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus, you can park on the street.
- Drone is not allowed.
- Check the location on
2. La Salle Street Bridge
One of the main advantages of LaSalle Bridge is its width, providing ample space for large groups to pose without feeling crowded. Whether you’re capturing a full bridal party or an intimate moment between the couple, there’s enough room to get creative with angles and compositions.
A key highlight of LaSalle Bridge is its perfect alignment with the Chicago Board of Trade Building. This architectural landmark adds a grand and timeless feel to photos, giving them a distinctive Chicago essence. The symmetry of the bridge leading into the Board of Trade creates a naturally stunning compositions. Due to its popularity, you should be ready for some crowds, including pedestrians and vehicles passing through.
LaSalle Bridge is one of Chicago’s top spots for wedding and engagement photography. Its spacious layout, stunning cityscape, and historic charm make it a dream location for capturing unforgettable moments. If you’re planning a bridal party shoot, this bridge should definitely be on your list!
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus, you can park on the street.
- Be prepared for crowds and a lot of passersby.
- Drone is not allowed.
- Check the location on
3.milton lee olive park
Milton Lee Olive Park is located right next to Navy Pier and is the most popular spot for wedding and engagement session photos. This location offers so many different backdrops that you can easily complete your entire photoshoot here, making it the only stop you need on your wedding day. It features lush greenery, a stunning skyline view with the iconic Hancock Building, shaded areas, a lake, and a beach. What more could you ask for?
We frequently work here, and you can often see our photos from this location on our website.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street.
- The park is open until sunset.
- Pay attention to the weather forecast, as it can be quite windy here. If the wind is strong, it’s best to avoid this location.
- Drone is not allowed.
- Check the location on
4.The Wrigley Building
The most popular photo spot. This location offers the opportunity to capture photos with authentic Chicago architecture, featuring the city’s most famous buildings in the background. If showcasing Chicago’s architecture is important to you and you want it to be a highlight of your photos, this is the perfect place.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street.
- Be prepared to wait for your turn to take photos, as there is always another wedding shoot happening here during the season.
- Always lots of tourists.
- Drone is not allowed.
- Check the location on
5.The Rookery Building
The Rookery is located right next to the Board of Trade on LaSalle Street. It is a unique building with the most beautiful interior staircase in Chicago. The Rookery represents the history of American architecture. This building is truly one of a kind, and we highly recommend it to anyone who has a rainy wedding day to book and organize a photo session here.
Important information for this location
- Photo permit fee is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street.
- Since the Board of Trade is right there, you have the advantage of taking some photos in front of the building as well.
- Check the location on
6.Art Institute Garden
The garden is located on both sides of the main entrance to the Art Institute, with photo sessions taking place in the South Garden. This garden is unique for its fountain and the shade provided by the surrounding trees, which also allow plenty of sunlight to filter through. The lighting is always different, adding to the special charm of this space. We always strive to capture fresh and unique shots, as this location is truly inspiring.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the Jackson dr.
- Be prepared to wait for your turn to take photos, as there is always another wedding shoot happening here during the season.
- Always lots of tourists.
- Drone is not allowed.
- Check the location on
7.Chicago Lyric Opera
A very popular location on rainy days. It’s also a great spot for group photos. If it’s wedding season and a rainy day, expect several other weddings to be taking photos there as well. Architecturally, it’s very interesting. In the afternoon, it’s always shaded, making it a great recommendation for photos even on a hot summer day.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street.
- Great for a rainy day.
- Drone is allowed.
- Check the location on
8.Adler Planetarium
Adler Planetarium is located right on Lake Michigan and offers the best view of the city. If you want the skyline in your photos, this is the perfect spot. We recommend checking the weather forecast, as it’s best to avoid this location on a windy day. Brides invest a lot of time in their hairstyles, and strong winds can be a major issue.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street.
- Always lots of tourists.
- Drone is allowed.
- Check the location on
9.North Avenue Beach
This location is perfect for us. It offers a phenomenal view of the city from the north side. You have a sandy beach, a stunning skyline—this is Chicago, showcasing incredible spots right in the heart of the city. North Avenue Beach also has its own parking, making it easily accessible.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- Parking is easy—they have their own parking lot. If you’re arriving by party bus or limo, there is a designated area where they can wait for you.
- Always lots of tourists.
- Drone is allowed.
- Check the location on
10. Chicago Riverwalk
Chicago Riverwalk covers a large area on both sides of the river in the heart of downtown, stretching from where the river meets Lake Michigan to the point where the Chicago River splits into the South and North Branch. This is one of the most popular spots for photography. The space is constantly evolving and always looks better and better.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street.
- Always lots of tourists.
- Drone is not allowed.
- Check the location on
11.kinzie street bridge
There are two bridges at this location, one of which is permanently raised and no longer in use. This makes the spot unique, as the background features not only the city’s skyline but also this elevated bridge. It is one of the most beautiful bridges in Chicago. In addition to individual portraits, we always take group photos here as well. It has an interesting history, as it was once a rotating bridge.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street.
- Drone is allowed.
- Check the location on
12.Garfield Park Conservatory
Garfield Park Conservatory is the perfect location for those who love flowers, nature, and greenery. It’s also a great recommendation for rainy days. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, you can have your photo session either inside or outside, depending on the weather.
Important information for this location
- Photo permit is required.
- They have their own free parking.
- They have limited operating hours, so be sure to check in advance.
- Drone is allowed.
- Check the location on
13.Lurie Garden
Lurie Garden is part of Millennium Park and a great spot for both group and individual photos. It features plenty of greenery and flowers with the skyline in the background. The lighting is best in the early morning or late afternoon. It’s best to avoid shooting around noon in the summer.
Important information for this location
- Photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the Monroe street.
- Always lots of tourists.
- Drone is allowed.
- See where they are .
14.London House Cupola
London House Hotel is located in the heart of the city. If you’re looking for a unique and stunning location for your wedding photos, this is it—the Cupola at the top of the hotel, right across from the Wrigley Building. The breathtaking view makes it truly special. It’s not suitable for large groups, so we recommend it exclusively for couples.
Important information for this location
- Photo permit is required.
- Call the hotel for more information’
- Drone is not allowed.
- Check the location on
15.Fullerton Beach
Fullerton Beach is another great spot near North Avenue Beach that offers an excellent skyline view of Chicago from the north side. It’s ideal for large groups and is relatively easy to access since it’s located right next to the highway.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo and you can briefly park at the turnaround near the entrance.
- Drone is allowed.
- Check the location on
16.Fourth Presbyterian Church
The courtyard of this church is beautiful. If you’re having your wedding at this church or nearby, we highly recommend coming here for stunning photos. There is a covered area, making it a great option in case of rain. They have an arched walkway, a fountain, and a green patio, allowing for a variety of photo compositions. The Hancock Building serves as a stunning backdrop.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street.
- Drone is allowed.
- Check the location on
17.Chicago Grant Park
Grant Park in Chicago is a vast space with a variety of backdrops, from Buckingham Fountain to tree-lined paths, abundant flowers, and greenery. The Chicago downtown skyline serves as a stunning background. It’s a great location for warm summer months, as there’s plenty of greenery and shade. It looks even more spectacular in the fall when the colors are breathtaking.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street for a short time.
- Drone is allowed.
- Check the location on
18.Lincoln Park South Pond
Lincoln Park is the perfect location for couples who want just one spot for their photoshoot. It truly has everything—lush greenery, one of the best skyline views, and the unique Honeycomb structure. Parking is easy, but be prepared to walk a bit. It’s ideal for both individual portraits and large groups, including a big wedding party.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street.
- Be prepared to wait for your turn to take photos, as there is always another wedding shoot happening here during the season.
- Drone is allowed.
- Check the location on
19.Chicago Theater
Chicago Theatre is one of the city’s major tourist attractions. Parking can be challenging, but for short stops with a party bus, it is manageable. You don’t need much time here to capture amazing photos. The location is also great for group photos, as there is a pedestrian island in front of the theater where you can stand safely. The most beautiful photos are taken at night when the sign is lit up.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- In general, if you are arriving by party bus or limo you can park on the street.
- Always lots of tourists.
- Drone is allowed.
- Check the location on
20.Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center is a space that radiates history, an architecturally iconic landmark of the city. It is located across from Millennium Park on Michigan Avenue, with entrances from two streets. The best entrance is from Washington Street. This location offers a variety of photo opportunities, featuring grand staircases and intricate ceilings. It is also home to the world’s largest Tiffany stained-glass dome.This is one of the options for rainy days.
Important information for this location
- No photo permit is required.
- You can enter, but the operating hours are limited.
- Always lots of tourists.
- Drone is not allowed.
- Check the location on
