Lincoln Park Nature Boardwalk engagement photos don’t get much better than this spring evening with Kelly and Tom. We were able to spend an evening together in one of my favorite cities, and it was so fun getting to know them a little more. Kelly and Tom have one of those love stories that just makes sense. They met as students at the University of Notre Dame, fell in love somewhere between classes and game days, and now they’re building their life together in Chicago. Next summer, they’ll be back at Notre Dame, getting married at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and celebrating at the Downes Club. One of the first of their friend groups to get married, so it is sure to be a big celebration and reunion for everyone. And I cannot wait for their day.
For their Chicago engagement photos, Kelly and Tom chose Lincoln Park, because it is a beautiful green space right in the middle of the city. And, Kelly lives close by so that is a bonus! They wanted to incorporate a nature feel as well as make it iconically Chicago. And I think we did that well! Plus everytime I am there, I find little hidden gems along the way, so it feels like I am photographing there for the first time, everytime.
Lincoln Park Nature Boardwalk
We started at the Lincoln Park Nature Boardwalk as the sun was still making its way down. Spring in Chicago means the flowers are just coming in, the trees are full and lush, and the way the light hits the leaves is just chef’s kiss for photos. Kelly and Tom were so at ease from the start, too. Laughing, leaning into each other, and so excited for everything ahead of them. And that energy shows up in every single frame.
The Nature Boardwalk is one of those spots I love for engagement sessions because it gives you so much variety. You have the water, the flowers, the peek of the skyline, and the iconic honeycomb, and every time I’m there I find something new. And all of it wrapped in that soft, golden spring light. It never gets old.
The Honeycomb Pavilion
The honeycomb pavilion is one of those spots every couple wants at the Nature Boardwalk, and it’s a staple for a reason. The Chicago skyline frames perfectly through the center of it, and Kelly and Tom looked amazing there. One of those spots where you just know you’ve got something special before you even look at the back of the camera. It’s just so iconically Chicago.
Along the Lakefront Trail
From the Nature Boardwalk, we made our way out to the Lakefront Trail as the sun was setting. The Chicago skyline engagement photos from this stretch of the lakefront truly get me every time. The city across the water, the light going all peachy and warm, and Kelly and Tom completely wrapped up in each other. I will never get tired of capturing a couple with that Chicago skyline behind them.
We ended the evening with a little walking and laughing along the path, hair flying, holding hands, not a care in the world, with the Sears Tower (no, I will NOT call it the Willis Tower) rising up behind them in the distance. And Kelly’s smile in these photos, I mean, I want to frame every single one. It’s one of my favorite ways to end a session, just letting a couple move and be together while the city does its thing in the background.
Notre Dame to Chicago to the Basilica
Kelly and Tom, I loved every minute of this evening with you both. Getting to photograph you in the city you call home right now, knowing that next summer we’ll be together again at Notre Dame for one of the most sacred and beautiful days of your lives just means so much. Thankful to capture these moments for you!
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To anyone looking for a Chicago engagement photographer who knows Lincoln Park, the Lakefront Trail, and all the best spots the city has to offer, I would love to chat. I photograph engagement sessions and weddings in Chicago regularly and genuinely love every session the city gives me. Reach out anytime.
