Chicago Engagement Session at The Art Institute

Tessa and Zach’s summer engagement session in Chicago was filled with beauty and so many thoughtful touches. They chose The Art Institute of Chicago for a very special reason. It was the location of one of their very first dates, how meaningful! Returning there for their engagement photos felt like the sweetest full circle moment.

The Art Institute offers such an incredible combination of architecture and light. Every corner feels timeless and elegant, which makes it one of my favorite indoor locations for engagement portraits in Chicago.

We began on the Grand Staircase, which truly lives up to its name! The columns, arches, and classic details create a stunning architectural backdrop. When you catch it at just the right time of day, sunlight streams in from above and wraps the space in the most beautiful glow. It almost feels like being outdoors! At the top of the staircase, the Hartwell Memorial Window is always a highlight. The 25-foot stained glass window creates a gorgeous backdrop that feels both romantic and artistic.

One of the most meaningful stops of the session was visiting Sky above Clouds IV by Georgia O’Keeffe. This painting is Tessa’s mom’s favorite piece in the museum, and incorporating it into their session added such a special touch to the overall experience. I truly love when couples bring sentimental details like this into their portraits.

We also made a stop at the iconic modern staircase. The floor to ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, and the open design allows us to move freely and capture playful, relaxed images. With just a single sculpture in the space, it feels clean, airy, and perfect for more candid portraits.

Chicago Engagement Photos with Tessa & Zach

When we were ready to step outside, we walked down the street to a beautiful Chicago garden filled with seasonal flowers in full bloom. The evening light was soft and golden, creating the dreamiest summer backdrop to complement the classic elegance of The Art Institute.

After the session, Tessa and Zach insisted on treating me to Kong Dog right down the street. I happily joined them, and my first experience did not disappoint. I ordered the original, which instantly reminded me of my eight years working at the Illinois State Fair where fresh corn dogs are a staple. It was such a fun and unexpected way to end the evening.

Tessa and Zach’s Chicago engagement session was the perfect blend of sentimental, elegant, and joyful. From timeless architecture to blooming gardens and a late night snack, it was a true Chicago summer evening to remember!

Kim Ritchie Photography is a wedding and portrait photographer based in Chicagoland, specializing in weddings, seniors, and corporate headshots captured in a timeless style. Want to work together? Reach out here and follow along on social to see what’s happening behind the scenes!

Chicago Engagement Session at The Art Institute | The Art Institute Chicago Engagement Photos | Chicago Engagement Photographer