
Alex and Michelle’s Chicago engagement session had that perfect Navy Pier energy, lake breeze, city glow, and a whole lot of “this feels like a real date.”
We kept it centered around Navy Pier, grabbed a mix of relaxed walking portraits, and made sure to get a few iconic shots with the Ferris wheel behind them.
Navy Pier is one of those Chicago spots that gives you variety without needing to bounce all over the city.
You’ve got the lakefront open space, skyline views, pockets of great light, and the Ferris wheel that instantly makes your photos feel unmistakably Chicago.
It’s lively, it’s fun, and it works especially well if you want your session to feel like you’re just hanging out together while we capture it.
We started with a relaxed walk around the pier, letting Alex and Michelle ease into the session naturally.
Walking is always the cheat code. You’re moving, you’re talking, you’re laughing, and the photos end up feeling real because you’re not stuck in one spot trying to “pose.”
They were comfortable together from the start, which made the candid moments come easy.
Then we lined up some portraits with the Navy Pier Ferris wheel behind them, and it instantly leveled up the whole gallery.
We grabbed a mix of wide shots to show the scene, then moved in closer so the Ferris wheel glow framed them without taking over the moment.
It’s one of those backdrops that feels iconic, but still keeps the focus right where it should be, on the two of you.
1) Plan it around golden hour into twilight.
You get soft flattering light first, then the city lights and Ferris wheel glow later. Best of both worlds.
2) Expect wind.
Lake Michigan does what it wants. Layers, hair plans, and outfits that move well are always a good idea.
3) Keep the session date-like.
Grab a treat, take your time, and focus on each other. The more it feels like a real night out, the better the photos feel.
If you want engagement photos that feel fun, natural, and unmistakably Chicago, Navy Pier is such a solid choice.
We’ll help you navigate the best spots, keep the flow easy, and make sure you walk away with a gallery that feels like you two, not a performance.
Getting Married? Check out our work here and contact us!
We’re Westley Leon Studios, a team of wedding photographers in South Bend, Indiana with an unwavering commitment to authentic imagery and a personal experience. For the couples who choose a damn good time over stuffy propriety every time.
Studio Address: 218 Front St Niles, MI 49120
Mailing Address: 1606 Oak St Niles MI 49120
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