Chicago offers countless iconic spots for engagement photos, but few locations blend the city’s charm and energy as perfectly as a session at North Avenue Beach. Kendra and Austin’s North Avenue Beach Chicago engagement session showcased the best of what the Windy City has to offer, combining the timeless elegance of the Wrigley Building with the relaxed, picturesque beauty of the beach. Their session was a perfect mix of urban sophistication and lakeside fun, capturing their love story against two of Chicago’s most stunning backdrops.
Kendra and Austin: A Love Story
Kendra and Austin’s journey began long before their engagement. Best friends since high school, they share a history filled with laughter, shared car rides, and walking through hallways together. Their friendship eventually blossomed into a romantic relationship after they both graduated from college. Fast forward five years, and Austin popped the question in December 2023. Their deep connection and shared memories made their engagement session even more meaningful.
Starting at the Wrigley Building
The Wrigley Building, with its stunning white terra cotta façade and historic charm, was the perfect starting point for Kendra and Austin’s session. Located right along the Chicago Riverwalk, this area offers endless opportunities for breathtaking photos. The buzz of downtown Chicago added an extra layer of excitement to the shoot.
We began the session in the late afternoon when the sunlight filtered beautifully through the city’s skyscrapers. Kendra wore a chic dress in a neutral tone that popped against the building’s intricate architecture, while Austin looked sharp in a tailored suit. Together, they radiated a classic yet modern vibe that perfectly complemented the Wrigley Building’s timeless appeal.
The Riverwalk nearby gave us a chance to capture a mix of candid and posed shots. Kendra and Austin strolled hand-in-hand along the water, pausing for a few quiet moments by the river’s edge. The city’s iconic bridges and bustling energy provided a dynamic backdrop that felt quintessentially Chicago.
A Stroll Along the Riverwalk
After capturing the elegance of the Wrigley Building, we made our way to the nearby Riverwalk, a perfect complement to the urban vibe of Kendra and Austin’s session. The Riverwalk offers stunning views of the Chicago River and the city’s architectural marvels, making it an ideal spot for both candid and posed shots.
As we strolled along the water’s edge, Kendra and Austin held hands, laughing and sharing quiet moments together. The energy of downtown Chicago surrounded us, with boats passing by and the lively atmosphere of the city in full swing. We captured a mix of shots, from playful interactions to serene moments by the river.
The backdrop of the iconic bridges and the bustling cityscape added a dynamic touch to their photos, highlighting the vibrant essence of Chicago. This segment of the session not only showcased the couple’s chemistry but also encapsulated the spirit of the city they love, making their engagement session even more special.
Iconic City Skyline at North Avenue Beach
After wrapping up at the Wrigley Building, we headed to North Avenue Beach for the second half of the session. This location offers one of the best views of Chicago’s skyline, making it a favorite for couples who want those classic cityscape shots.
As we arrived, the golden hour light began to settle over the city, casting a warm glow on the skyline. Kendra and Austin changed into more casual outfits, embracing a relaxed and playful vibe for the beach. The contrast between the downtown elegance of their earlier photos and the laid-back atmosphere of North Avenue Beach added variety to their session.
We started with some wide-angle shots to capture the full grandeur of the city skyline. Kendra and Austin stood on the sandy shore, framed by Lake Michigan’s gentle waves and the towering buildings in the distance. The combination of natural and urban elements created a stunning visual narrative that highlighted their love story.
Planning Your Chicago Engagement Session
If you’re considering a Chicago engagement session, here are a few tips to ensure everything goes smoothly:
- Choose Two Locations: Just like Kendra and Austin, opt for two locations that represent your relationship and add more variety to your photos! Perhaps one urban and one natural location for example.
- Time It Right: Aim for golden hour to take advantage of the soft, flattering light.
- Bring Multiple Outfits: Changing outfits mid-session allows you to showcase different sides of your personality and style.
- Plan for Travel Time: If you’re doing two locations, aim for a total session time of 1.5 to 2 hours to allow for outfit changes, travel, and parking between each spot.
- Be Open to Fun Ideas: Whether it’s wading into the lake or stopping for a drink along Riverwalk, don’t be afraid to embrace spontaneity.
A Fun, Unforgettable Ending
What made this session truly unique was how Kendra and Austin ended it. As the sun dipped below the horizon, they decided to take a spontaneous plunge into Lake Michigan. It was the perfect reflection of their adventurous and fun-loving personalities.
With laughter and excitement, they kicked off their shoes and waded into the cool water, fully embracing the moment. The photos captured during this part of the session were some of the most candid and joyful of the day. Their playful splashes and genuine smiles showcased the deep bond they share and their willingness to have fun together no matter what.
Final Thoughts
Kendra and Austin’s North Avenue Beach Chicago engagement session was a beautiful celebration of their love and their shared history. From the sophisticated elegance of the Wrigley Building to the playful energy of their lake plunge, every moment captured their unique story and personalities.
If you’re looking for inspiration for your own engagement session, let Kendra and Austin’s adventure remind you to choose locations that resonate with your relationship and to never shy away from a little fun. Whether it’s the iconic Chicago skyline or the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan, the Windy City offers endless possibilities for stunning and memorable photos.
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