Hire a Photographer for a Photoshoot in Chicago
Welcome to Localgrapher, your local photographer in Chicago, Illinois, United States, and other 1000+ destinations around the globe. This is your gateway to stunning memories captured in every frame! Read more
Dive into professional portfolios of handpicked photographers and book the one that matches your style the best for a solo photoshoot in Chicago, a proposal photoshoot in Chicago, a family photoshoot in Chicago, or any other special occasion! Here, we transform your vision into reality.
This is What You'll Get with Every Booking
Our Clients’ Reviews of Chicago Photographers
Don’t miss out on firsthand accounts and testimonials from clients who have entrusted us with capturing their most cherished moments in Chicago. We believe that the best way to understand the quality of our service is through the experiences of those we've had the privilege to serve. From solo traveler and surprise proposal photoshoots to group portraits and corporate events, our clients' stories offer valuable insights into what sets our photography apart. Take a moment to explore their reviews and discover why so many have chosen us to document their special occasions with professionalism, creativity, and care.
Top Photo Spots in Chicago
Capturing the essence of Chicago through a private photoshoot is an extraordinary experience, allowing you to showcase your unique style against the backdrop of this vibrant city.
Chicago boasts a remarkable blend of architectural marvels, picturesque parks, and captivating neighborhoods that cater to every photographic vision. In this guide, we’ll unveil the top photo spots in Chicago, each offering its distinct character and charm, making it the ideal setting for a personalized photoshoot with a private Chicago photographer.
Whether you’re seeking iconic landmarks, urban aesthetics, or serene natural landscapes, these locations are bound to inspire and elevate your photography experience in the Windy City.
100% Money Back Guarantee
We believe in our service and quality of our photos so much that we decided to offer a 100% money back satisfaction guarantee for your photo shoot. If you don’t like your online gallery once we deliver it, you can contact us within 7 days and claim your money back. Find more details in our Terms.
How Much Do Chicago Photographers Charge?
Here, you’ll find our comprehensive guide on Chicago photography services and pricing. Whether you're seeking stunning portraits, captivating event coverage, or any other photographic need, we've got you covered. Below, you'll see a breakdown of typical rates for our photography services in Chicago.
- best for solo travelers
- 30 minutes
- 20 edited hi-res photos
- 2 years backup
- 4 work days delivery
- best for couples
- 60 minutes
- 35 edited hi-res photos
- 2 years backup
- 4 work days delivery
- best for groups
- 100 minutes
- 60 edited hi-res photos
- 2 years backup
- 4 work days delivery
- 60 minutes
- 35 edited hi-res photos
- 60 sec Full-HD video
- 2 years backup
- 90 minutes
- trendy photo spots
- local photographer’s tips
- private tour
- use smartphone/camera
- 180 minutes
- top photo spots
- local photographer’s tips
- private tour
- use camera
- Photoshop wrinkles/zits out
- Get a beauty upgrade
- Any RAW pic
- Done by professionals
- Price per 1 photo
- Photoshop body shape/size
- Look your best
- Any RAW pic
- Done by professionals
- Price per 1 photo
- Photoshop people/objects out
- Get the desired result
- Any RAW pic
- Done by professionals
- Price per 1 photo
- best for solo travelers
- 30 minutes
- 20 edited hi-res photos
- 2 years backup
- 4 work days delivery
- best for couples
- 60 minutes
- 35 edited hi-res photos
- 2 years backup
- 4 work days delivery
- best for groups
- 100 minutes
- 60 edited hi-res photos
- 2 years backup
- 4 work days delivery
- 60 minutes
- 35 edited hi-res photos
- 60 sec Full-HD video
- 2 years backup
- 60 minutes
- 35 edited hi-res photos
- 60 sec Full-HD video
- 2 years backup
- 90 minutes
- trendy photo spots
- local photographer’s tips
- private tour
- use smartphone/camera
- 180 minutes
- top photo spots
- local photographer’s tips
- private tour
- use camera
Make the Most out of Your Chicago Photoshoot
A Chicago photographer captures the vibrant essence of the Windy City through the lens of their camera. With its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and rich cultural heritage, Chicago provides a captivating backdrop for photographers of all genres. Whether it’s architectural marvels like the Willis Tower or Millennium Park’s iconic “Bean,” the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan, or the dynamic street scenes in neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Pilsen, a skilled Chicago photographer can skillfully showcase the city’s unique beauty and character. From weddings and portraits to cityscapes and fine art photography, the talent and creativity of Chicago photographers shine in their ability to encapsulate the city’s essence in every frame.
The Best Time of Year to Visit Chicago, Illinois, USA
The best season to visit Chicago, Illinois all depends on what you’re looking for, though most would agree both spring and summer may have the most to offer its first-time visitors. This is especially true when it comes to the weather, but if you can stand wet Autumns and extremely cold winters, then maybe you will find this city most charming under its winter skin.
Fortunately, no matter which season you choose to visit Chicago, Illinois there will be plenty for you to see and do and a nice amount of incredible local photographers to choose from during your Chicago excursion. Here’s what to expect during each of Chicago’s jazzy seasons.
Family photoshoot by Ryan, Localgrapher in Chicago
Visiting Chicago with a Photographer in Winter
There’s no denying it, Chicago in the winter is cold, cold, cold. This windy city will certainly show you a white Christmas, or at least snow days around the season, just to sync up with the beautiful Christmas lights. Lincoln Park Zoo is especially spectacular this time of year if you’re looking for the best light show in town. On the bright side, there will be heaps of ice-skating rinks to choose from, which means, more space on the ice and spectacular views while you skate.
A great tip for enjoying winter in Chicago is hiring a local photographer and heading out to MILLENNIUM PARK: McCormick Tribune Ice Rink for a view that overlooks the city, or for more professional skaters check out MAGGIE DALEY PARK: Ice Skating Ribbon, which is stationed right between Lake Michigan on one side and a skyline view of Chicago on the other! Imagine that for a photo backdrop! If skating in the evening wasn’t enough, then you’ll absolutely have to go sledding down Soldier Field Sled Hill. And if there isn’t enough snow when you want to go the city may just blow some extra snow to keep the trail running smoothly and you at your top-safest speed.
If you’re traveling with your family, you’ll absolutely want to hire a family photographer for such a fun event! Don’t forget to treat yourself to a rich cup of hot chocolate when you need a break from the chill. Your Chicago photographer certainly won’t turn down a cup. Then use the weather as an excuse to spend the day in The Art Institute of Chicago to wander around some of the world’s greatest pieces of art.
Proposal photoshoot by Vanessa, Localgrapher in Chicago
Visiting Chicago in Spring
In spring there is certainly no shortage of things to do in Chicago. The city is eager to welcome in the warm weather by celebrating with food festivals, concerts, art fairs and more. In April you can catch the Chicago Wine festival, in May the Chicago Kids and Kites Festival, the Memorial Day Parade, and too many food festivals to name them all, but let’s just say you won’t leave Chicago without an over satisfied food-belly.
Then, any local will tell you to head over to Lakefront Trail and walk along the blossoming trail to experience Chicago in bloom. Lakefront Trail is also a great place to hire an engagement photographer for an unforgettable photoshoot. If you absolutely love parks, spend the day in Grant Park and have a romantic picnic in the sun surrounded by the locals, fresh green grass and hearty blooming trees.
If you’re traveling with kids, then you’ll certainly want to spend a sunny day in Maggie Daley Park, which is a magical place for children up to 12 years old. They can play in the Enchanted Forest where all the trees are upside down, a rock climbing wall and more. And, if treating yourself to Chicago’s famous cuisine is on your list, check out the Fulton Market Food Hall on a cold day or evening, and pick a seat among one of the many kitchens showcasing delicious dishes from some of Chicago’s most celebrated chefs this year.
For spring delights, book a trip to the Botanical Gardens to witness the crabapple trees blooming around the last two weeks of May accompanied by incredible tulips to further mark the arrival of spring.
Proposal photoshoot by Zhanna, Localgrapher in Chicago
Visiting Chicago in Summer
We hope you’ve planned a long stay this summer in Chicago because there will certainly be too many fun things to choose from all summer long.
First off, you’ll notice that you can eat on a terrace or rooftop in almost all of the great restaurants, which is a must-do if you’re not already planning a picnic by the lake. Then you’ll have to check out all the free events in Millennium Park for a full day’s adventure. This season is a great opportunity to hire an affordable photographer in Chicago since you won’t have any trouble finding a street fair or an outdoor festival. All you have to do is choose a neighborhood and discover what they are celebrating. If you need a good place to start, the most popular festivals and fairs are the Taste of Lincoln Avenue, the Taste of Randolph Street & the Taste of River North. But in truth, it doesn’t end there.
There is an abundance of festivals to choose from like The Lincoln Park Wine Fest, the Old Town Art Fair, Chicago Taco & Tequila Fest, Chicago Jazz Festival and the Chicago Food Truck Festival. If you’ve had too much to eat then head to Maggie Daley Park for some communal exercising, rent a bike and ride down Lakefront trail, or go swimming in Montrose Beach or Oakwood Beach. If you do make it out to Oakwood beach, bring your private photographer along with you, you’ll absolutely want some of those photos with the city skyline in the background of your photo uploaded to your Instagram account.
And let’s not forget, Grant Park hosts the Taste of Chicago Festival, the biggest food event worldwide in July and the Navy Pier hosts weekly fireworks show every summer. So, if you’re planning a proposal this summer, sync it up with the fireworks at the pier and have your proposal photographer ready for one of the most meaningful moments of your lives captured along Chicago’s most famous pier! And finally, for a day of simple fun, head to Lincoln Park’s Green City Market where you can shop local produce while listening to live music under the Chicago sun.
Family photoshoot by Zhanna, Localgrapher in Chicago
Visiting Chicago in Autumn
For those who love fall colors, Chicago in autumn is a must-see. If you want to do two things at once, immerse yourself among the fall foliage by heading to a pumpkin patch, apple orchard, or corn maze. And, if you’re prepared to do three things at once, bring along your personal photographer to capture all of the highlights from your trip to Chicago. They especially love the Corn Mazes for a fun photoshoot during Halloween season!
If it’s still warm, book a river cruise to get a look at the cityscape from a water-view perspective. All the locals will tell you the best time to book a cruise is during the fall season, when you can witness not only incredibly innovative architecture but beautiful fall foliage. And, whether you’re with children or not, check out the Adler Planetarium for some fascinating planetary exhibitions and the Field Museum for incredibly unique science exhibitions.
In Autumn you can hire some of Chicago’s best photographers and spend the day in North Avenue Beach, where you can find a bar on the beachfront, kayaks for rent and the last opportunity to soak up the Chicago sun before the bold winter arrives. Hire a professional photographer from Chicago for your trip HERE!
Proposal photoshoot by Daniela, Localgrapher in Chicago
Chicago Photographer FAQs
Welcome to our Chicago photographer FAQs! If you're considering booking a private photographer for your special occasion or event in Chicago, you've come to the right place. Whether it's a wedding, engagement, family portrait session, corporate event, or any other memorable moment you want to capture, we're here to provide you with all the information you need to make your photography experience seamless and unforgettable. In this guide, we'll address commonly asked questions to ensure that you feel confident and informed as you embark on this exciting journey of preserving your precious memories. Let's dive in!
The cost of hiring a photographer in Chicago can vary widely depending on factors such as the photographer’s experience, the type of photography (e.g., portrait, event, commercial), the duration of the session, and the specific services or products included in the package. On average, you can expect to pay up to $500 USD per hour for a professional photographer’s services in the Chicago area. With Localgrapher, the prices start at $250 USD. See more in the full price list.
The cost of a wedding photographer near Chicago can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the photographer’s experience, the length of coverage, the level of service, and any additional services or products you may want. Typically, the average cost for a wedding photographer in the Chicago area ranges from $2,000 to $4,500 or more.
However, it’s important to note that prices can fluctuate over time and may vary based on the specific location within the Chicago metropolitan area, the time of year, and the photographer’s reputation. High-demand photographers with extensive experience and a strong portfolio may charge higher rates.
To get an accurate quote for your wedding photography needs, contact our booking team at hello@localgrapher.com.
Chicago, with its dynamic urban landscape, picturesque lakefront, and diverse neighborhoods, offers a wealth of captivating locations for photoshoots. Whether you’re on a family vacation or a couple looking for the perfect engagement spot, Chicago has something to offer everyone. Explore a variety of exceptional locations throughout the city, each with its own distinct character and charm HERE.
Chicago’s winter wonderland offers a plethora of enchanting locations for a family photoshoot. The iconic Millennium Park transforms into a magical scene with its Cloud Gate sculpture, surrounded by glistening snow. Lincoln Park Conservatory offers a lush indoor option, where you can capture vibrant greenery and colorful blooms amidst the winter chill.
Chicago’s historic neighborhoods, like Wicker Park and Logan Square, exude cozy charm with their tree-lined streets and vintage architecture, providing a picturesque backdrop for candid family moments. Additionally, the city’s lakefront, particularly around North Avenue Beach, offers a serene and icy beauty, especially during a snowfall, with Lake Michigan providing a stunning backdrop. Finally, the Art Institute of Chicago’s grand staircase and lion statues provide a regal, classic setting for a winter family photoshoot.
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