YEEEE YOU’RE ENGAGED!! Now that you got that bling, here comes all the fun and planning and one of the most exciting parts: engagement photos! With a mix of beautiful architecture, beaches, Lake Michigan, the Chicago River and stunning skyline views, there are so many spots around the city that are perfect for your engagement shoot. Choosing locations that are meaningful to you guys as a couple makes all the difference in helping you be more comfortable in front of the camera! When scheduling an engagement photoshoot, I always have my couples fill out a form so that I can help them find the best locations to help tell their story and let their personalities show! Here are 7 of the dreamiest spots for an engagement photoshoot in Chicago.

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park offers the perfect mix of nature and city views. The skyline backdrop set behind ponds, trees and plants makes for a beautiful photography session, and the changing seasons give a variety of colors depending on the time of year.

Parking tip: Parking here is free but its hard to snag a spot, Clark street usually has metered parking or apps like Spot Hero and Park Whiz are always helpful!

North Avenue Beach

This one’s a classic for Chicago photos! Whether you want the beach or a killer skyline view, North Avenue Beach is a stunning location. It truly showcases Chicago’s beauty with Lake Michigan and the skyline!

Parking tip: Usually the parking lot is open but if not try Well’s street in old town (about a 20 min walk) or try apps like Spot Hero or Park Whiz!

Millennium Park

In the heart of the Loop, Millennium Park offers so many different backdrops like The Bean, Lurie Garden, Crown Fountain and Millennium Monument. Plus it’s just a short walk to Buckingham Fountain for another photo opp.

Parking tip: Under the el trains on Wabash there are typically metered parking spots or apps like Spot Hero and Park Whiz.

Permit details: Keep in mind that Millennium Park requires a filming & photography permit, so this will need to be received in advance! You can find more details on that here.

The Riverwalk

The Riverwalk is a beautiful industrial location and what’s not to love about the iconic Chicago River!? Stop by City Winery for a drink to loosen up beforehand or to celebrate afterwards.

Parking tip: Spot Hero and Park Whiz are always helpful, street parking is nearly impossible!

Grant Park

Grant Park is another great location in Chicago’s Loop that offers way more than just the skyline! Here is where you can get those Buckingham Fountain shots too.

Parking tip: Under the el trains on Wabash there are typically metered parking spots or, yes you guessed it, use the apps Spot Hero and Park Whiz.

The L Trains

If you’re looking for a photoshoot that reminds you of your daily life, there’s a good chance the L trains will do that. The trains and tracks are a staple in Chicago and can create cool lighting too!

Parking tip: Depends on which stop you want to photograph at but in the loop under the el trains on Wabash there are typically metered parking spots.

Board of Trade Building

The Board of Trade is a beautifully framed building that gives off elegant golden hues right in the Loop. What more could you want!?

Parking tip: Metered parking is all around but can be more expensive than other places in the city since it’s in the loop. Definitely download one of those parking apps for anywhere in the loop!