North Avenue Beach Engagement Photos | Cassie & David
If you’re dreaming about North Avenue Beach engagement photos, you’re in the right place! As a Chicago engagement photographer, this is one of my go-to spots for couples who want a mix of city views, water, and a relaxed, fun atmosphere all in one location.
Cassie and David’s session here was so much fun. We met at sunset, spent the evening laughing, moving around the beach and pier, and even popped some Champagne to celebrate. It felt easy, joyful, and very them, which is always the goal.
If you’re considering North Avenue Beach for your engagement session, here’s everything you need to know.
Why I Love North Avenue Beach for Engagement Photos
North Avenue Beach gives you so much variety without needing to travel between locations. That’s a huge win for keeping your session relaxed and fun.
Plus, you get an incredible view of the Chicago skyline paired with Lake Michigan, which is hard to beat! The pier is one of my favorite spots because it gives you the full city backdrop with the water surrounding you. It feels very “Chicago” in the best way!
If you want something a little more laid back or casual, you can step right onto the sand for a softer, beachy feel. There are also small pockets of greenery and trees nearby, which can add even more variety to your engagement photo gallery.
Engagement photos here feel both elevated and effortless – a personal favorite combo of mine!
North Avenue Beach Engagement Photos: What to Know Before You Go
A little planning goes a long way here, especially since this is such a popular spot.
Parking at North Avenue Beach
There is a parking lot right next to the beach, which is convenient but costs around $30.
Another option is to park near the Lincoln Park Zoo and walk over the bridge to the beach. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes to wear for the walk!
Best Time for Photos
Sunset here is unbeatable! We’ll work together on timing for your session depending on the season, but we’ll want to walk out to the end of the pier just as the sun is setting.
Oftentimes, I like to keep shooting for about 15 minutes after sunset when the city lights start to glow behind you. That soft light paired with the skyline is always worth it!
Crowds
North Avenue Beach is a popular spot for proposals and engagement sessions, especially on weekends. For this reason, my weeknight policy for engagement sessions is the perfect fit! It makes the experience feel more relaxed and gives us a little more space to work.
Outfit Changes
Depending on the time of year, you can use the bathrooms at Castaways Beach Club to change. There are also public restrooms nearby. They are not the most glamorous option, but they get the job done if you want to switch up your look mid-session.
Cassie & David’s North Avenue Beach Engagement Session
Cassie and David showed up ready to have fun, and I loved every minute with them. We started with the skyline behind them, then moved along the pier as the light softened. There was a lot of laughing and movement, and the in-between moments with them ended up being some of my absolute favorites.
As the sun started to dip, they popped a bottle of Champagne and the moon made an early appearance. The sky changed color every minute and Cassie and David took it all in.
Planning Your North Avenue Beach Engagement Photos
North Avenue Beach is the perfect choice if you want a mix of skyline, Lake Michigan, and a relaxed atmosphere all in one place. With the right timing and a little planning, it can feel surprisingly easy and low-stress, even though it’s a busy part of the city.
If you’re thinking about North Avenue Beach engagement photos, I would love to help you plan your session. From timing and outfits to making sure you feel comfortable in front of the camera, I’ve got you every step of the way. Get in touch today to book your session and let’s start planning something fun!
