There are a lot of things to love about Chicago, but our winters are not one of them. Now you might think that you must wait out the cold weather before you can take those ideal pictures you’ve been envisioning. But guess what! There are some amazing indoor photography locations in Chicago where you can shoot your perfect picture. From indoor greenery to stunning architecture, to quaint and cozy and artsy, there’s an indoor Chicago location to fit your photo needs. To help you out, I’ve pooled together a list of some of my favorite photo spots, including a few iconic landmarks and some lesser-known hidden gems.
I’ve also included a quick guide for each spot, summarizing highlights, what it’s good for, and ease of access (on a scale of 1-5, 5 being the most difficult).
Highlights: Great natural light, greenery, and pretty good access.
Good for: Family, Engagements, and portraits. Requires permits for special events, e.g, weddings.
Access: 3
Like many on this list, this indoor photo location doesn’t “officially” allow professional photography, but with a bit of discretion and courtesy to other guests, you can take advantage of this indoor oasis. Built between 1906 and 1907, this is one of the largest conservatories in the nation. Designed by renowned architect William LeBaron Jenney, a.k.a. the father of the American Skyscraper, this 4.5-acre greenhouse is a masterpiece of landscaping designed beneath an equally breathtaking glass structure. Stepping inside from a gray, dry, freezing January day feels like you’ve been transported to an exotic destination full of verdant pathways, earthy aromas, and layers upon layers of stunning greenscapes.
Highlights: Natural light. Architecture.Covered outdoor section.
Good for: Family, Engagements, and portraits. Requires permits for special events, e.g., weddings.
Access: 3
Highlights: Natural light. Architecture, Unique Backgrounds.
Good for: Natural Family, Engagements, and portraits. Requires permits for special events, e.g., weddings.
Access: 4 (call ahead)
Highlights: Uniqueness, grit.
Good for: Uniqueness, Engagements and portraits. Transit authority takes their job seriously. Pictures on the platform are discouraged.
Access: 3
For those who want a little extra grit and character, look no further than the Chicago “el” train. There are dozens of stops with eight different transit lines and trust me, not all are equally photogenic. To help you out, I’ve picked three of my favorites.
Highlights: Natural light. Architecture.Covered outdoor section.
Good for: Natural Wedding, Engagements, and portraits. Requires permits for special events, e.g., weddings.
Access: 3
Highlights: Natural light. Architecture.Covered outdoor section.
Good for: Wedding, Engagements, and portraits. Requires permits for special events, e.g., weddings.
Access: 3
When conditions are gloomy outside, take refuge inside The Drake Hotel’s north-facing entrance off Lake Shore Drive. You’ll find an ornate staircase between gray stone walls and warm, glowy crystal chandeliers. The revolving doors also offer another fun, unique spot for engagement or portrait pictures.
Highlights: Indoor vintage space with unique backgrounds.
Good for: Engagements and portraits. Best when you make an appointment. Permit cost: $150.
In the heart of Chicago’s hip West Town neighborhood, you’ll find a 60,000 sq foot second-hand furnishings space like no other. Inside feels more like walking through a well-curated art installation space with salvaged relics thoughtfully arranged in a way that makes you want to re-furnish your entire home. One of Chicago’s favorite event spaces for alternative weddings and edgy events, you can take a chance at snapping pictures on Saturdays and Sundays when it’s open to the public, or otherwise have space to yourself starting at $150.
Highlights: Natural light. Hip, vintage.
Good for: Wedding, Engagements, and portraits.
Access: 2
Tucked inside the walls of the Chicago Fine Arts Building, The Dial bookshop on the second floor is a picturesque scene with floor to ceiling windows and a small labyrinth of bookshelves. Unlike other bookstores, this one has an open, airy vibe. But don’t worry, it still maintains that scent of used books.
Also, full disclosure, this isn’t The Dial–this is another bookstore in Lincoln Park.
Highlights: Fun. Unique.
Good for: Engagements, family, and portraits. Requires permits for special events, e.g., weddings.
Access: 2
For a day-in-the-life location check out Southport Lanes. This four-lane bowling alley is a classic, fun spot for families and couples. Skip the posing here and let your natural reactions come through. You won’t regret it.
Good for: Wedding, Engagements, and portraits. Requires permits for special events, e.g., weddings.
Access: 2
Embrace the retro vibes inside Bubbleland Laundromat. The black and white checkered floor and fluorescent lights feel like an instant time warp. Just don’t forget your bubbles!
There are so many more places around Chicago to explore and consider for your photography needs. I’ll keep this updated as new ideas pop up. If you have any suggestions, leave them in the comments below. If you’re interested in booking your own portrait or engagement session, contact me here, call 402-304-4057, or email maggie@rifeponcephotography.com.
For a few of my favorite outdoor photo locations, check out the links below:
Chicago has limitless places to photograph memories. Bad weather? No problem! Our grand city has got you covered with many indoor locations to get you that idyllic picture. Good weather? Of course, that’s not a problem either. With our urban, lakeside, and greenscape areas surrounding us, you’re sure to find an ultimate spot for photographic perfection.
If you do take photos at any of these Chicago locations, I’d love to see what you captured. Feel free to share @maggierifeponce on Instagram. Happy photographing!
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