Chicago is known for its striking architecture and has no shortage of locations that can make the perfect backdrop for your 1st look. BUT it’s also known for large events that affect traffic, large crowds and tourist-heavy areas. And spoiler alert, yours is not the only wedding that weekend, if picking a spot that’s in high demand you’ll likely have to compete with other couples waiting for the same spot adding unnecessary frustration and likely messing with your timeline, not to mention your photos will look like everyone else’s.
A great first look location (or portrait location), is a unique location: you want a spot that’s quiet, calm, private, less known, and photographs well and maybe one that is special to you as a couple. We have compiled a list of spots that strike a perfect balance, they take you away from the crowds without sacrificing the quintessential Chicago settings.
1. Maggie Daley Park Gazebo and Cancer Survivors’ Garden
We love this spot because it is a striking structure in the middle of the city that’s less known than the typical photo spots ( looking at you Wrigley Building & Riverwalk), it makes a perfect setting visually, and it is easily accessible from the street where you don’t have to walk a long way from your drop off point. Another big plus is its proximity to some of the best hotels in the city.
Photos by The Bold Americana
2. Lincoln Park Lilly Pond
You’ll love Lincoln Park as a setting but specifically the Lilly Pond because it’s an area mostly known to locals and one that isn’t swarming with tourists. This is a serene beautiful backdrop that can even be used for intimate ceremonies. One of the main reasons this area is not overpacked with wedding parties waiting for their photo moments, is that it requires a permit, which is easily obtained making the spot exclusively yours for the time you reserve, your timeline thanks you. Check out the park’s info page for all the details and availability.
Photos by: Shanti Knight Photography
3. Chciago Bridges
Yes, you read that right, Chicago is known for it’s iconic bridges that arch over the river, and if your timeline allows you to venture away from the downtown area, you’ll find other unique spots that give you the skyline in the background — ask your photographer to scope out some unique bridge spots (like the Division ave or Chicago Ave bridges) for a more unique vibe
Speaking of bridges, the bridge leading to the Honey Comb/ People’s Gas Pavilion at Lincoln Park Zoo, has one of the best skyline views away from the lakefront. And even though it may be a busy spot for wedding parties, it’s a large area that can accommodate a few parties at a time; if you are getting married on Zoo grounds this is even more of a must! Convenient AND stunning is our fave combo.
Photos by Ed & Aileen Photography and Layla Eloa Photography
4. striking Architectural Elements
Find yourself a beautiful doorway or building front in the city — ideally in the business district where it’s less busy during the weekend. Walking around the city and finding gilded doors, grand staircases and arched entryways that can make a beautiful backdrop can be a fun activity you do as a couple and you can enlist friends or your photographer to help discover unique hidden gems.
photos by Studio Finch Photography
6. Hotel private/ semi private spaces
Chicago hotels are full of hidden gems perfect for a 1st look. Ask your hotel contact if they have any areas that are used for photos and ask if they’re private or semi- private or can be blocked off, and even if they aren’t, usually guests are accommodating and respectful as long as you stay away from busy lobby areas or tight spaces. We love a beautiful elevator door, a rooftop bar during off peak times, or a striking staircase. A pro tip: don’t assume you’re ok to take photos in a specific space in a hotel just because you have a room block there, often hotels reserve certain times for guests and those hosting their wedding reception there have priority even in common areas, so always ask. When making your hotel selection we can advise on the ones that are accommodating and have great spots to offer.
Photos by: Once Like a Spark// Nakai Photography // The Bold Americana // Studio This Is
Photo by Jill Tiongco Photography
Speaking of pro tips, here are a few that we see more as GOLDEN RULES, they will save you time and anxiety, and if you’re one of our clients we will take care of all of the legwork and work closely with your photographer to make sure you have the perfect experience, this is a moment' that’s charged with emotions on it’s own, location drama should not add any stress.
The perfect 1st look location is one that is perfect for YOU and your specific scenario, but here are a few things to consider when making your decision:
Your timeline is the Bible, so make sure you choose a location that makes sense in order to maximize your time. You want to spend the bulk of time actually enjoying each other, taking photos not driving around the city in high traffic and likely contending with street closures.
Run your ideas by your photographer, they’ll likely be able to give you feedback on lighting at that time of day and season, ideal setting for your vibe and timing.
No matter how much you love an outdoor location, always make sure you have an indoor backup in mind ( even if it’s as simple as your hotel suite) — scrambling to find a backup and communicating all the details to everyone involved last minute is never a good idea !
Check city events during your wedding weekend, besides the obvious large scale events there might be others that you’re not aware of, and avoiding those spots will save you time and frustration.