Planning your Chicago engagement photos? Many couples flock to the obvious landmarks, and for good reason. They’re beautiful! But they don’t always capture the local charm of the city. Not to mention, they are often packed with tourists — not really something you want to include in portraits meant to be of just you and your fiancé!

The real magic of Chicago engagement photography lies in discovering the city’s hidden gems and iconic architectural backdrops. These are the places that can effortlessly capture, and express, your unique love story.  

As a Chicago engagement photographer who has explored every corner of this incredible city, I’m sharing here a few creative Chicago engagement photo ideas that will make your session truly unforgettable! Keep reading to discover the hidden gems of the city. 

Chicago Engagement Photo Idea #1: Magnificent Mile

Magnificent Mile offers some of the most sophisticated backdrops for your Chicago engagement photos. This part of Michigan Avenue is one of the most iconic parts of the city, but because it’s a long stretch of a street, there are plenty of places to snap a picture without a crowd of tourists behind you. 

Magnificent Mile also includes places like:

Chicago Riverwalk:

Walk hand in hand along the water with the city’s stunning skyline reflecting behind you. Plus, boat tours passing by add movement and life to elevate your photos.

Wacker Drive Lower Level:

This hidden gem offers dramatic views of the city with towering skyscrapers. It all comes together to create natural frames for your photos! 

Chicago Architecture:

Chicago is full of architectural beauty, and the riverwalk on Magnificent Mile during golden hour is the place to be. Imagine how stunning the light bouncing off the buildings will be!

Chicago Engagement Photo Idea #2: Iconic Downtown Architecture

Chicago’s architectural heritage provides endless possibilities for your engagement session. Everywhere you look, there are beautiful buildings to see.

And while there are many, these are what I recommend to clients the most:

Chicago Cultural Center:

Tiffany glass domes and marble interiors. It’s an elegant setting that feels like a fusion of European glamour and Chicago charm. An interesting combination, but trust me, it works. 

Union Station’s Great Hall:

The soaring ceilings and classic architecture provide a grand, romantic atmosphere perfect for engagement photos in Chicago. 

Chicago Board of Trade Building:

Art Deco details and dramatic lighting…it’s a sight to see!

Rookery Building Lobby:

Frank Lloyd Wright’s stunning light court offers intricate details and golden light that are sure to enhance your photos. 

Chicago Engagement Photo Idea #3: Neighborhood Gems

This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning a few local favorites. If you want even more of that Chicago charm, I recommend these locations:

Lincoln Park Zoo:

I know a zoo may not be top of mind, but because it has many beautiful gardens tucked away from the crowds, it can be a great place to take engagement photos. 

North Avenue Beach:

Get Chicago’s iconic skyline in the background, and take unique pictures in the chess pavilion to add even architectural interest to your photos. 

Oak Street Beach:

More intimate than North Avenue Beach, with gorgeous city views and sandy shores for romantic summer engagement photos. 

Lincoln Park or the Chicago Botanic Garden:

During the spring and early summer months, you can catch some of the most beautiful blooms in all of the city, making the perfect backdrop for your photos. 

Alder Planetarium Area

This is the waterfront spot that we LOVE!

West Loop:

For every restaurant lover, and filled with shops, boutique hotels, and art galleries. You can also find the Epiphany Center for the Arts and year-round Randolph Street Market.

Ready to Book Your Chicago Engagement Photos?

Chicago is a beautiful city with many hidden gems. But no matter if you’re locals who fell in love, or you’re planning a destination wedding here, your photos should ultimately capture the bond that makes your love story so special.

The key is choosing locations that feel authentic to your relationship while showcasing the architectural beauty that makes Chicago one of the world’s most photogenic cities. Skip the tourist traps and focus on creating images that feel like you.

Something to note on a lot of the best indoor spots – almost all of them require permits for photography! There are specific permits/fees and days/times, so we’ll want to scope spot options and have a couple of days and times ready so that we can help you cross-reference the options!

Ready to capture your love story in this iconic city? Follow me here to learn more about how we can work together to plan the most romantic engagement photos in all of Chicago.