Using the most spectacular backdrops in Chicago and throughout the country, your engagement photos will capture your personalities and tell your love story.
Think of this experience like a fancy date night on the town, but a photographer just happens to be following you along for the ride.
I love working with couples to create a fun-filled, memorable experience while capturing their lives in this very unique moment in time.
If you are looking for engagement photos that are candid, natural and full of joy, I hope you'll enjoy looking through my photos.
Engagement photos that are a true reflection of your personalities.
"Ashley somehow was able to capture the history of our 9 years together and the little moments that we never get to see from the outside."
Artistrie Client, Teresa
If you're planning an engagement session in the Chicago area, here are my favorite tips to share to help you get the photos of your dreams.
The locations we use throughout your engagement session should ideally be a reflection of you.
Some ideas to consider: a memorable date location, your favorite neighborhood locales, a place you enjoy going for walks together, the proposal location, a favorite vacation spot, where you first met, a chic bar or hotel room, your home or vacation house...
While I know it's tempting, don't feel like you have to do what everyone else is doing. Some of the best engagement photos happen when the locations are meaningful to the couple.
I love scheduling my engagement sessions at either sunrise or a few hours before sunset to get the most magical light for your photos.
The sun is at its lowest point in the sky at these times of day which creates soft, romantic lighting that is incredibly flattering for portraits.
Trust me. The more fun you have with your outfits, the more fun you'll have taking photos!
Dress for your engagement session as if you are heading out on the town for a fancy date night together. Wear colors, styles and silhouettes that make you feel like a million bucks.
For my brides, I highly recommend booking a hair & makeup appointment to get you camera ready for your shoot. A professional stylist will help make sure your skin looks flawless and they'll use the right products to ensure your hair and makeup lasts through the final shot.
The most important tip of all: have fun!
Your engagement session is NOT the time to bring up the bills, work drama or the stresses of wedding planning. Leave the serious talk for another day.
Couples who get the best photos are the ones who show up to have fun, go with the flow and make each other feel loved.
Bonus Tip: Make your engagement session a day to celebrate! Take the day off from work, have a relaxing afternoon together and make a reservation for dinner and drinks at your favorite spot. It should be a fun day from start to finish.
Veteran Acres, Crystal Lake
Fullersburg Woods, Oak Brook
Morton Arboretum, Lisle
Warren Dunes, Michigan
Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve
Montrose Harbor
The Chicago Riverwalk
Jackson Park
The West Loop
The Art Institute
North Avenue Beach
To help you find the best location to match your engagement photo vision and aesthetic, these are my personal favorite settings for an engagement session in the Chicagoland area.
Shakespeare Gardens, Evanston
For more information about working together for your engagement session, please complete my contact form.
I'll be in touch within 48 hours to provide information and availability for your photos.
Thank you for your message. I typically respond to all inquiries within 48 hours, Mondays through Thursdays.
I look forward to getting to know you and hearing more about your vision for your boudoir photos.
In the meantime, you can read my FAQ and learn more about working together.
Thank you for your inquiry!