With so many choices and so little time on your wedding day, it can be hard to know what the best Chicago locations for wedding photos are. Well, don’t worry, you’re in the right place! 😉 Whether you’re planning a wedding or an elopement in Chicago, the city has some absolutely iconic spots for photos. From historic architecture to modern city vibes, the city offers everything – if you know where to look!

Having been a Chicago wedding photographer for years, I wanted to share five of my favorite places to take wedding pictures in Chicago—spots that can bring the romance, charm, timelessness and whatever else you envision on your wedding day. I had the pleasure of capturing the gorgeous Mariko & Deon at these locations on their wedding day, and now I’d love to share them with you.

1. Fourth Presbyterian Church – Classic Elegance

Tucked away on Michigan Avenue, Fourth Presbyterian Church is one of the most underrated but stunning locations for wedding portraits in Chicago. The courtyard’s old-world charm, stone archways, and lush greenery create a setting that feels worlds away from the busy city. If you want timeless, romantic photos, this spot is perfect.

This was one of Mariko’s favorite locations for wedding photos, and it’s easy to see why. The architecture provides a European-inspired feel, and the quiet corners make it ideal for capturing those candid, in-between moments. It’s also a great location if you want variety in your wedding gallery without traveling too far.

📍 Address: 126 E Chestnut St, Chicago, IL 60611

Pro tip: Since this is a private church, be mindful of service times or private events. Early mornings or weekdays are usually best for uninterrupted photos.

2. The Field Museum – Iconic, Timeless, & Cinematic

If you’re looking for dramatic, luxe wedding portraits, The Field Museum is one of the best places to take wedding pictures in Chicago. The massive columns, grand staircases, and clean, neutral backdrops make every shot feel cinematic. It’s perfect for couples who love a mix of classic and modern editorial vibes.

Mariko and Deon’s portraits here had an effortlessly elevated feel, framed by the museum’s grandeur. Whether you want wide-angle shots that show off the scale of the architecture or close-ups with soft natural light, The Field Museum delivers every time.

📍 Address: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

Pro tip: If you’re getting married downtown, schedule your portraits here in the late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.

3. The Art Institute of Chicago – Effortlessly Chic

Few spots capture the essence of Chicago quite like The Art Institute of Chicago. With its historic steps, grand entrance, and nearby gardens, it’s one of the most versatile locations for wedding photography. Whether you want something formal and refined or candid and intimate, this spot works for every style.

On Mariko and Deon’s wedding day, we got lucky—it was unusually quiet, which made for an uninterrupted, relaxed session. I will always recommend portraits at The Art Institute.

📍 Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603

Pro tip: If you want to add in some contrast, take a short walk to Millennium Park for more urban, skyline-filled shots.

4. One of Chicago’s Modern Bars – The Editorial Vibe

For a totally elevated, high fashion feel, a chic bar can be a killer spot for wedding portraits. While most couples think of outdoor or grand architecture locations, one of Chicago’s modern bars can give you that editorial edge you’re looking for in your wedding photos.

Mariko really loved the indoor direct flash photography look, so we took full advantage of the vibe and took some incredible flash photos at the bar. We found an incredibly sleek bar with moody lighting that made these shots stand out from the rest of the day’s portraits. It was stylish, and completely unique.

It’s important to note, I say “one of Chicago’s modern bars,” because it will depend from bar to bar what their policy is. Some require photo permit fees to be paid, some require the session to take place before they’re open to the public, and some straight up say no to all of it – it really depends!

In my experience, the best odds for getting permission is if you as a couple reach out to the manager by phone or in person to share your story, and let them know how and why this place has so much meaning to you as a couple. It means so much (even to managers and business owners) to be acknowledged and appreciated. It also helps if you can suuuper sweetly ask if it might-be-possible-to-stop-in-for-just-a-few-quick-photos during your engagement session. We don’t want them getting the impression that it will be a long, disruptive production.

Specifically for flash photography, the majority of bars won’t allow it while they’re open, so if you want flash, have an idea of their hours and plan in advance to ask if it’s possible to stop in right before opening! If you love the idea of something more fashion-forward and dramatic, it is absolutely worth investigating how you can add a bar stop like Mariko and Deon did to your wedding day timeline. It’s unexpected in the best way!

Pro tip: Direct flash is pretty versatile and can really elevate a space, it just takes little forethought! It’s always a good idea to talk to your photographer ahead of the shoot so they can help set the stage and make it look like your photos are right out of a fashion magazine.

5. Chicago Theater – Nighttime Portraits

If you’re looking for classic city-lit wedding photos, you can’t beat the Chicago Theater at night. The neon sign, the movement of the city, and the glowing lights create cinematic, high-energy portraits that capture the magic of downtown Chicago.

Mariko and Deon wanted to sneak away from their reception for some quick night portraits, and the Chicago Theater was our spot of choice! We hopped in an Uber, shot for less than five minutes, and captured some of the most iconic shots of the day. The traffic, streetlights, and theater sign created a dynamic, high-impact backdrop.

📍 Address: 175 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601

Planning Your Wedding Photos in Chicago? Here’s What to Know

Choosing the best Chicago locations is about more than just finding pretty backdrops—it’s about selecting places that align with your wedding day vision. Whether you want classic architecture, modern city shots, charming old world vibes, or something bold and editorial, Chicago has the spot you’re looking for.

My Final Tips:

✅ Book a private driver if you plan to visit multiple locations. It keeps things stress-free and ensures you’re never rushed.
✅ Consider the time of day—some spots get crowded fast, so early mornings or evenings are best for uninterrupted photos.
✅ Mix up your locations—combine classic and modern for a wedding gallery that feels versatile and dynamic.

I’d love to elevate your day with my knowledge of the best Chicago locations for wedding photos. If you’re planning a wedding in Chicago and want wedding photography that feels natural, effortless, and editorial, let’s chat!

📩 Get in touch with Loren Weddings to chat about photography for your Chicago wedding!