As a photography company founded by visionaries passionate about capturing the Midwest’s urban and natural beauty, we’ve got all the insider knowledge on how to have the ultimate photoshoot in Chicago.

The Best Photoshoot Location in Chicago

Chicago is a photographer’s playground, brimming with an iconic skyline, lush parks, and stunning lakeside charm that make every snapshot unforgettable. Whether planning a family photoshoot, a maternity photo session or simply wanting to have a solo portrait photo shoot to capture your Chicago adventure, finding the best photoshoot locations Chicago can offer will help transform your vision into a masterpiece.

At Shoott, we make it easy with:

• Free 30-minute photoshoot sessions across 30+ outdoor locations

• Top-rated professional photographers in Chicago

• A flexible pay-per-photo model—starting at $25 or less per photo, with different value bundles that include retouching credits and printing options for photobooks, cards, and framed prints

• 3-5 business day photo delivery of your digital gallery with 40+ lightly edited shots

Read more on pricing here

A step-by-step on how it works

With Shoott, you don’t have to worry about finding an affordable photoshoot location in Chicago that delivers quality without breaking the bank. We’ve got permits for all outdoor shoots (or indoor with Shoott access) and everything else cleared for you, so all you need to do is book the session with no upfront cost, show up, and have fun!

To find out all the locations that Shoott offers in Chicago, read here: https://www.shoott.com/photoshoots/chicago

In this guide, we’ll reveal the top 5 photoshoot spots in Chicago, share tips for picking the perfect Chicago photographer, and advise on the best times to shoot.

A couple of things to keep in mind:

1. If you’d like to schedule a pet photoshoot or simply want to include your pet in the session unless mentioned otherwise, it's always best practice to check the location’s website regarding their pet policy!

2. Always arrive an ample amount of time earlier to your session so you can park as the locations can get very busy. Choose public transportation (or Uber/taxi) whenever possible so it’s easier for you!

3. Be prepared to walk a bit to the meetup point (this depends on multiple factors).

Let’s dive in!

Top 5 Photoshoot Locations in Chicago

1. Downtown Riverwalk: Urban Waterfront Elegance

Location: 2 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

When it comes to a photoshoot at Downtown Riverwalk, you’re stepping into the heart of Chicago’s urban beauty, with its scenic river views, architectural marvels, and bustling energy. This location is typically identified as one of the most ideal engagement photoshoot spots in Chicago, also great with solo portraits, offering a dynamic city backdrop. Shoott’s photographers navigate the urban landscape and help guide your photo shoot, ensuring a stress-free experience. The Riverwalk’s iconic charm makes it a standout for your photoshoot.

• Why It’s Great: River views and skyline create a sophisticated setting.

• Best For: Engagements, solo shoots, urban portraits.

• Shoott Tip: Book late afternoon slots (4:00-6:00 p.m.) for golden hour light and fewer crowds, enhancing your experience.

2. Lake Shore East: Lakeside Luxury

Location: 450 E Benton Pl, Chicago, IL 60601

Lake Shore East is a classic among Chicago photoshoot locations, featuring modern architecture, serene parks, and proximity to Lake Michigan. It’s one of the best photoshoot locations for weddings in Chicago. Family photo sessions also stand out, blending urban sophistication with natural beauty. Shoott’s photographers know the area’s best angles and can help you make the most of your 30-minute, free shoot! Lake Shore East’s lakeside allure makes it a top choice for your preferences.

• Why It’s Great: Modern design and lake views offer a luxurious backdrop.

• Best For: Weddings, families, urban shoots.

• Shoott Tip: Morning shoots (7:00-9:00 a.m.) offer golden light and quieter spaces.

3. Montrose Beach: Coastal Serenity

Location: 200 W Montrose Harbor Dr, Chicago, IL 60640

Montrose Beach, with its sandy shores, lakefront views, and natural dunes, is a standout among the top photoshoot spots Chicago has. It’s ideal for Chicago family photoshoot sessions, romantic couple shots, or bold solo shoots, offering a peaceful escape within the city. Shoott’s photographers capture this coastal beauty effortlessly, with diverse angles for a dynamic gallery. Montrose Beach’s serene setting makes it perfect for your photoshoot session! Please note that pets are allowed in the park but not at the beach.

• Why It’s Great: Lakefront beauty and natural dunes provide a tranquil backdrop.

• Best For: Families, couples, nature shoots.

• Shoott Tip: Sunset sessions (6:00-8:00 p.m.) highlight the golden hues, perfect for a unique beach photoshoot.

4. Naperville Riverwalk: Scenic Suburban Charm

Location: Naperville Riverwalk, Naperville, IL 60540

Naperville Riverwalk brings a scenic suburban vibe with its picturesque bridges, fountains, and riverside paths, a top choice among Chicago photoshoot locations. It’s perfect for most types of photography in Chicago, but specifically family photoshoots or engagement photos really stand out because of the location’s beautiful blend of nature with small-town charm. Shoott’s photographers highlight the area’s serene beauty, which includes a fairy tale-esque bridge, ensuring stunning shots. Naperville Riverwalk’s tranquil setting makes it a gem for your Chicago photoshoot!

• Why It’s Great: Riverside scenery and quaint bridges offer a peaceful setting.

• Best For: Families, engagements, nature lovers.

• Shoott Tip: Early morning shoots (6:00-8:00 a.m.) capture serene light, enhancing your gallery options.

5. Chicago Cherry Blossoms & Spring Blooms: Floral Splendor

Location: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637

A seasonal favorite, Chicago Cherry Blossoms & Spring Blooms - set against the backdrop of the Museum of Science and Industry - is a standout among Chicago photoshoot locations vetted by every Chicago photographer that we have. The highlights that this location is best at are family sessions, seasonal shoots, or pictures of Chicago downtown nearby, offering a burst of color and urban elegance. Shoott’s photographers capture the seasonal beauty, ensuring a vibrant gallery. The blooms’ splendor makes it perfect for a unique photoshoot.

• Why It’s Great: Vibrant cherry blossoms and cultural landmarks create a stunning backdrop. Best For: Engagements, families, seasonal shoots. Shoott Tip: Spring morning shoots (7:00-9:00 a.m.) capture peak bloom and fewer crowds, perfect for when it’s your first time and you’re unsure how to choose a photoshoot location in Chicago.

A Professional Photographer in Chicago

A stunning location deserves a skilled photographer. Here’s how to choose one that befits the best photoshoot locations Chicago boasts:

• Chicago Expertise: A photographer must be familiar with the city’s quirks—windy weather, summer crowds, and lighting. Shoott’s Chicago photographers team are local experts, mastering spots like Montrose Beach and Downtown Riverwalk, ensuring the Chicago photoshoot locations are captured beautifully for your shoot!

• Portfolio Review: Checking a photographer’s portfolio for a style that matches your vision—romantic, candid, or bold—is key. Shoott allows you to browse portfolios of top photographers, finding your perfect match for a Chicago family photoshoot or solo shoot. This includes custom sessions!

• Client Reviews: Reliability matters. Shoott’s top-rated photographers are vetted by the local community, with glowing reviews from customers at various photoshoot spots in Chicago, building trust.

• Transparent Pricing: Avoid surprises. Unlike traditional photography stores in Chicago, Shoott’s pay-per-photo model ($25 or less per photo or value packages including $180 for Basic or $298 for a Full Gallery) keeps costs clear, making any location an affordable photoshoot location in Chicago, with no upfront cost.

With Shoott, you get a seamless experience—permits handled, expert guidance, and stunning results—making it a smart choice to navigate Chicago photoshoot needs.

General Tips on When It’s Best to Photograph in Chicago

Timing can elevate your photos from good to great when you’re trying to capture your personality with the location in all its glory. Here’s how to optimize your shoot:

• Golden Hour Magic: Shoot at sunrise or sunset for warm, flattering light. Montrose Beach glows at sunrise (6:30-8:00 a.m.), ideal for a Chicago lakeside photoshoot, while Downtown Riverwalk shines at sunset (6:00-8:00 p.m.).

• Weather Watch: Chicago’s windy winters and humid summers require planning—monitor forecasts or use Shoott’s indoor photoshoot studio in Chicago (e.g., Humboldt Park Indoor Studio at 4100 W Grand Ave) as a backup. But, note that overcast days can create beautifully moody pictures!

• Crowd Control: Early mornings or weekdays reduce crowds at busy spots like Lake Shore East or Naperville Riverwalk. Shoott’s photographers leverage local knowledge to ensure you photograph at your best, in the best photoshoot locations.

Shoott’s flexible booking lets you adapt to Chicago’s rhythm, and with a 3-5 business day turnaround, your photos arrive fast—rain or shine. Arguably one of the best tips for selecting the best photoshoot spot in Chicago is to let us take care of everything else!

Wrap-Up: Your Chicago Photoshoot Awaits

The best photoshoot locations Chicago boasts—from the urban elegance of Downtown Riverwalk to the floral splendor of Chicago Cherry Blossoms—offer endless inspiration for your photos. Pair these locations with Shoott’s free 30-minute sessions, expert photographers, and budget-friendly pricing at $25/photo, $180 for 10, or $298 for the whole gallery, all lightly edited, and you’ve got a recipe for unforgettable memories.

Permits? Handled. Gallery? Delivered in 3-5 business days. All you need to do is book and let the city shine in your story.

Ready to capture Chicago’s magic? Schedule your Shoott session today at one of these Chicago photoshoot locations or any other Chicago locations on our site and create photos you’ll treasure forever! Visit https://www.shoott.com to book now.

For more on how to choose a photoshoot location in Chicago, feel free to reach out at info@shoott.com