How to Get Beautiful Summer Engagement Photos in Chicago
A local Chicago wedding photographer shares tips to take stylish summer engagement photos in the Windy City.
Ashley Biess is the owner and photographer of Artistrie Co, a wedding & portrait photography boutique in Chicago, Illinois. She has been photographing couples for over 15 years and shoots in a hybrid candid, editorial style to capture your life's moments in a personable, artful way.
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Here are some tips for what to wear for summer engagement photos in Chicago:
1. Opt for Flowy Dresses: Choose flowy dresses that are tighter at the bust and then flow throughout for movement in your photographs. These dresses not only flatter various body types but also provide comfort and a sense of elegance. In Chicago's summer heat, the flowy fabric will help keep you cool when the wind blows.
2. Stick to Soft Hues: When selecting colors for your outfits, consider sticking to neutral and soft hues. Shades of pink, blues, sophisticated neutrals, greens, creams, and whites are recommended as they photograph beautifully against Chicago's urban backdrop.
3. Consider Dapper Attire for Men: Encourage your partner to step up their attire beyond a casual T-shirt and jeans. A striking suit paired with nice jeans or a sport jacket elevates their look and adds a touch of sophistication to the photoshoot. Solid shades of gray or navy are strong complements to most outfits and exude a timeless charm.
4. Accessorize Thoughtfully: Don't forget about accessories to complete your ensemble. Consider adding statement jewelry, a stylish hat, or a chic pair of sunglasses to add personality and flair to your look without overwhelming the overall aesthetic.
5. Prioritize Comfort: While it's important to dress to impress for your engagement photos, prioritize comfort as well. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable throughout the photoshoot, especially considering the potential heat and humidity of Chicago summers.
6. Coordinate Outfits: Coordinate your outfits with your partner to ensure a cohesive look that complements each other without being too matchy-matchy. Aim for a balance of colors, textures, and styles that harmonize well together and reflect your unique personalities as a couple.
By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared to dress stylishly and comfortably for your summer engagement photoshoot in Chicago, ensuring stunning photographs that capture your love and joy in the midst of the city's vibrant atmosphere.
What to Wear for summer Engagement Photos
Taking summer engagement photos in Chicago offers a myriad of advantages that contribute to a memorable and visually stunning experience.
First, Chicago's iconic skyline serves as an unparalleled backdrop, providing a dramatic and picturesque setting for your photoshoot. The city's diverse architecture, ranging from historic landmarks to modern skyscrapers, offers endless opportunities for capturing unique and captivating images.
Chicago's abundance of green spaces, such as Millennium Park and Lincoln Park, provides lush, scenic backdrops with vibrant foliage and blooming flowers during the summer months.
The warm weather and longer daylight hours of summer allow for more flexibility in scheduling your photoshoot, with ample opportunities to capture golden hour lighting for ethereal and romantic shots.
Furthermore, the city's bustling streets and lively atmosphere add an undeniable energy and charm to your photos, infusing them with the vibrant spirit of Chicago.
Overall, summer engagement photos in Chicago promise a perfect blend of natural beauty, urban sophistication, and timeless romance, creating cherished memories to last a lifetime.
Pros of a summer Engagement Session
While summer engagement photos in Chicago offer numerous advantages, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider.
Firstly, the summer months in Chicago can bring hot and humid weather, which may not be ideal for outdoor photoshoots, particularly if you or your partner are sensitive to heat. The combination of high temperatures and humidity can lead to discomfort and sweating, affecting both your appearance and overall experience during the photoshoot.
Additionally, popular outdoor locations in Chicago may be more crowded during the summer months, making it challenging to find secluded spots for intimate and uninterrupted photos.
Furthermore, unpredictable weather patterns, including sudden rain showers or thunderstorms, can disrupt outdoor photoshoot plans, necessitating last-minute rescheduling or compromising the quality of the images.
Lastly, while Chicago's skyline and architecture offer stunning backdrops, the city's bustling streets and urban environment can sometimes detract from the romantic ambiance of the photoshoot.
Despite these potential challenges, careful planning and consideration can help mitigate the cons of taking summer engagement photos in Chicago, ensuring a successful and memorable experience for you and your partner.
Cons of a summer Engagement Session
If you are taking summer engagement photo session in Chicago, here are a few tips for a successful and fun experience!
summer Engagement Photo Tips
Schedule your photoshoot either early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the harsh midday sun. The golden hour provides soft, flattering light that will enhance your photos.
No. 1: Time it right
Chicago summers can be hot and humid, so choose lightweight, breathable fabrics for your outfits. Avoid heavy layers and opt for airy dresses or linen suits to stay comfortable throughout the shoot.
No. 2: dress for the weather
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during the photoshoot, especially if you're spending time outdoors. Consider bringing along a small insulated bag to keep your drinks cold.
No. 3: Stay hydrated
Embark on a sailing excursion on Lake Michigan for a truly unforgettable photoshoot experience. Capture the wind in your hair and the sun on your faces as you sail along the shoreline, with the city skyline as your backdrop.
No. 4: Set sail on Lake Michigan
Incorporate seasonal elements into your photoshoot to capture the essence of summer in Chicago. Consider props like colorful parasols, ice cream cones, or bicycles to add a playful touch to your photos.
No. 5: Embrace the season
Chicago boasts stunning rooftop bars and lounges with panoramic views of the city skyline. Reserve a private space and toast to your love against the backdrop of the glittering skyscrapers and colorful sunset hues.
No. 6: Indulge in Rooftop Romance
Bring along a small bag with essentials like blotting papers, sunscreen, and makeup for quick touch-ups throughout the photoshoot. Chicago's summer weather can be unpredictable, so it's best to be prepared for any conditions.
No. 7: Plan for touch ups
Explore Chicago's vibrant neighborhoods and iconic landmarks for unique photo opportunities. From the colorful street art of Pilsen to the trendy vibes of the West Loop, there's no shortage of interesting backdrops to enhance your photos.
No. 8: Explore Chicago
If you have a question about working together this summer for your engagement photos in Chicago or throughout the midwest, please complete my contact form or email me directly. I'd love to hear from you!
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Artistrie Co. is a Wedding & Portrait Photographer serving Chicago, Illinois, Michigan and beyond.
