My Favorite Family Photography Locations: Chicago & Northwest Indiana
One of the questions I get asked most often is "where should we take our photos?" The truth is, there are so many beautiful options depending on the vibe you're going for. Here's a roundup of my favorite spots - some iconic, some hidden gems - to help inspire your next family session.
Your Home & Backyard
This one might surprise you, but it's one of my favorites. Your home is where memories are made every single day - the same kitchen where you make breakfast, the yard where your kids learned to ride bikes. There's something incredibly special about capturing professional photos and video in the space that's uniquely yours. Home sessions feel authentic, comfortable, and let your family be completely themselves.
Your Neighborhood Trail or Park
You don't need a fancy location to create beautiful images. Sometimes the park or trail your family visits every week is exactly right. These familiar spots add a layer of meaning to your photos - they represent this chapter of your life, in a place you actually spend time. There's something powerful about photographing your real life, not just a pretty backdrop.
Chicago Locations
Montrose Beach
This is one of my absolute favorite spots - it's actually where I hold my mini sessions! Montrose has everything: trees, walking paths, wildflowers, beach, and stunning water views all in one location. The variety here means we can capture so many different looks in a single session.
Belmont Harbor
Belmont is easy to park at and much less crowded than Lincoln Park. I love the light here, along with the trees and greenery. My favorite approach is starting a session at Belmont and finishing along the lakefront for a mix of natural, green backdrops and open water views.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is incredibly versatile. You get gorgeous city views and the iconic honeycomb structure, but there are also so many hidden pockets with trees and flowers that don't even feel like you're in the middle of the city. It's the best of both worlds - urban and natural in one location.
Chicago River
The river gives you that iconic Chicago feel unlike anywhere else. The architecture adds so much character and visual interest to your images, and the Riverwalk is such a fun, lively place to stroll around during a session.
Evanston Beaches
The beach is my personal happy place, and Evanston has some incredible options. Think tall dune grass, soft sand, and beautiful Lake Michigan views. Many of these beaches also have a nearby park or tree area, so we can capture both a natural tree backdrop and lakefront shots in the same session.
Northwest Indiana
Kemil Beach
I discovered this gem during a session with dear friends, and I cannot wait to shoot there again. Kemil Beach is much quieter than other public beaches - it felt like we had the entire place to ourselves. The sunset over the lake here was absolutely stunning.
Griffith - Oak Ridge Prairie & Oak Savannah Trail Park
This is my go-to Indiana location, and for good reason - it's incredibly versatile. There's a secret little path I love shooting in that's covered in beautiful trees, and when the light peeks through the branches, it looks absolutely magical. There's also a bridge that kids love running across, and a beautiful tall grass area where I love laying out a blanket for those cozy snuggle photos.
Not Sure Which Location Is Right for You?
That's exactly what I'm here for! Every family has a different vibe, and part of my job is helping you find the location that fits your family's personality and style. Whether you're drawn to the city energy of Lincoln Park, the quiet beauty of Kemil Beach, or the comfort of your own backyard, I'll help you choose the perfect backdrop for your story.
Ready to plan your session?
Contact me and let's find your perfect spot!