Your most memorable celebrations deserve to live on long after the moment passes. Whether you are marrying the love of your life, watching a beloved child celebrate a birthday, or commemorating the launch of a new product, you’ll want to keep the memories alive with beautiful photographs.
The best photographers in Chicago go beyond taking beautiful portraits or capturing the dynamic movement on the dance floor. These visual artists know the best backdrops in Chicago — both iconic landmarks and less-trafficked side streets. Moreover, they know how to show off the brilliance of this City of the Big Shoulders without ever losing sight of you or your celebration — even on a blustery winter day.
Your most memorable celebrations deserve to live on long after the moment passes.”
To help you commemorate your meaningful event — and keep the memories close to heart — we’ve compiled a curated list of the best Chicago Photographers.
So many elements go into creating the perfect photograph, and photographers spend years honing their skills and developing their talents. To select (and connect you) with the best Chicago photographers on PartySlate, we’ve considered everything from the quality of the photographer’s celebrations to their reputation with both party hosts and trusted industry sources.
Keep reading to discover the 23 best Chicago photographers who can capture your most cherished moments — as well as this magnificent city we call home.
In Alphabetical Order
Andrew Weeks Photography
What We Love: We love Andrew Weeks Photography’s ability to capture the details of any occasion — from the most intimate moments to large scale celebrations. His expertise allows for him to excel in shooting the best that any city has to offer.
What To Know: “I create time machines for my clients,” Owner Andrew Weeks says.
What To See: “I hold all of my wedding couples close to my heart,” Weeks shares. “This couple in particular, however, was so relaxed and naturally affectionate with each other in front of my camera, that my time with them stands out as a highlight and always brings a smile to my face.” See the picturesque oceanfront wedding.
Artisan Events
What To Know: Award-winning photographer and President of Artisan Events, Amanda Sudimack, tells us, “Our natural, journalistic images are curated for you in elegant hand-crafted books and albums because we know that every detail counts.”
What To See: Sudimack reminisces on this luxurious tented wedding, “Gorgeous day, gorgeous couple—great memories.”
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Averyhouse
What To Know: Owner Stevi Savage of Averyhouse shares, “We believe in creating images that capture the essence of a moment so that they feel both authentic and candid. We aim to photograph the feeling of what is unfolding in the scene rather than trying to always be technically perfect (although, we do that part equally as well)!”
What To See: “We loved Julia and Phil’s bright and natural decor and their effortless ability to smile, laugh, and radiate joy the entire day,” Savage tells us. “They trusted us fully to capture their day the way that we saw it — just like so many of our other clients, and that always leads to an especially memorable day.”
Beller-Jones
What To Know: “We approach every event in the same way that we would approach a story on the streets of India, Africa, or Burma,” Partners Carolyn Beller and Matthew Goddard-Jones of Beller-Jones tell us. “Our minds and our eyes are open to every little nuance of emotion, humor and love. Every single story is different, fresh, and exciting for us.”
What To See: “This was a backyard wedding with only 12 guests, yet it was so touching and, in some way, even more beautiful than if it had been in a grand ballroom,” the partners share. “It felt important to us that the couple didn’t feel as if they had missed out on anything. We wanted them to look at these photos in 25 years and remember how perfect the day was.”
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Ben Ramos Photography
What We Love: We love how this Chicago-based photography team takes the time to develop genuine relationships with their clients. Ben Ramos Photography excels at capturing the most authentic, meaningful, and joyful moments of your celebration — while also documenting all the little details that you’ll want to remember for years to come.
What To Know: “You will receive honest, beautiful, timeless moments to be cherished for a lifetime, all while enjoying every part of the process with us,” Owner Ben Ramos explains. “We will keep high energy, yet keep you calm, make you laugh, and remind you of why you are making these lifelong vows to the love of your life. We will make you feel like celebrities.”
What To See: “This was my VERY FIRST wedding in Chicago at the beautiful Geraghty,” Ramos says. “This is the wedding that put me on the map in the Chicago market. It was so beautiful from start to finish and truly represents how I capture a wedding day.”
Bob & Dawn Davis Photography & Design
What We Love: We love the artistry and passion for life that goes into every shot captured by Bob & Dawn Davis Photography & Design. Their ability to convey a thoughtful narrative through beautiful imagery — along with their enthusiasm for love — endears them to all of their clients.
What To Know: “We strive to tell our couple’s story and reflect their energy in the photographs we capture,” Owners Bob & Dawn Davis inform us. “Like Elton John & Bernie Taupin, we work in two rooms: Bob is the principal photographer, and he handles all the logistics, then Dawn completes our vision by editing photos and making each image sing. She then designs a fine art book to encapsulate the story of the day.”
What To See: Describing this gorgeous wedding celebration, Davis says, “The Zac Brown band played…I mean… hell yeah!!! And the décor was incredible!”
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Carasco Photography
What We Love: We love how Carasco Photography creates one-of-a-kind images that reflect the unique nature of each celebration. Their creative compositions, natural ability to connect with clients, and commitment to story-driven photography allows them to create beautiful photos that capture the heart of each wedding and milestone celebration.
What To Know: Co-Founder Cara Nava tells us, “Carasco Photography is known for our creative compositions, natural ability to connect with clients, and commitment to story-driven photography.” She goes on to say, “As one of Chicago’s top event photographers, our clients rave about the richness and vibrancy of colors in the photos.”
What To See: “Neither a pandemic nor wedding day rain could put a damper on this couple’s joy,” Nava shares. “Like many couples forced to downsize, they decided on an intimate English garden wedding at Chicago Botanic Garden. Guests were surrounded by lush floral arches, abundant green accents, pops of rose, burgundy, and peach cascading beneath a billowing white tent.”
Collin Pierson Photography
What To Know: “The most unique thing about my work is the seamless combination of timeless candid images with gorgeous editorial,” Owner Collin Pierson shares. “Whether it be in Chicago or any location, I love to take challenges and turn them in to opportunities to tell the story of a couples most important day.”
What To See: “This fall tented wedding was absolutely magical – transforming a family’s back yard in to a wonderland of greenery, light, and romance,” Pierson explains. “This couple’s wedding was straight out of a magazine, with gorgeous details, editorial style imagery, and a great team that collaborated to bring it all together on a rainy Chicago day.”
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Elena Bazini Photography
What To Know: Photographer Elena Bazini tells us, “I specialize in a modern style of wedding photography that thrives on real moments and raw emotions. This is wedding photography that is heartfelt and natural, moments that feel like you.”
What To See: “This fall wedding at the historic Armour House in Lake Forest, Illinois was unforgettable because of the incredible weather, the beautiful light, and a particularly joyful group,” Bazini shares.
Emilia Jane Photography
What To Know: “After 12 years in business with weddings from Paris to Positano and the Four Seasons to a South African safari, I feel so lucky to call Chicago home,” Owner and Photographer Emilia Schobeiri says. “I bring that energy to all of my events and love capturing how the day really feels for my clients. After every event, I deliver printed proofs of the whole gallery, which my clients rave about.”
What To See: “So many things to love about this wedding!” Schobeiri tells us. “It really comes down to the fact that the clients were so kind, and the creative team was completely in sync. Lauren from Curate Plan Style really brought together the dream team to make this day beautiful and breezy from top to bottom.”
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Emma Mullins Photography
What To Know: “My documentary approach allows couples to feel totally comfortable in front of the camera,” Owner and Lead Photographer Emma Mullins of Emma Mullins Photography tells us. “In fact, it’s the number one thing that’s mentioned in my reviews.” She goes on to say, “Expect both candid moments and modern portraiture while still being able to enjoy time with your guests. I have a blast at every wedding…you might even find me singing along on the dance floor.”
What To See: “This day was an absolute pleasure to be a part of,” Mullins shares. “From the talented vendor team to the cultural traditions and the radiant couple, this wedding was especially memorable. I will never forget the smiles and the pure JOY.”
Fox + Ivory
What We Love: We love how this talented team of Chicago photographers and videographers captures intimate moments along with the story behind every event. Fox + Ivory boasts an attention to detail that encapsulates the emotion and beauty inherent in every shot.
What To Know: “Fox + Ivory is a boutique photo and video studio with a dedicated point-person to assist couples in choosing their perfect packages — we aim to make this process easier and stress-free!” Client and Team Coordinator Niki tells us. “With photography, we have a 80/20 approach: 80% documentation to capture the candid moments as they happen and 20% direction to make portraits fast and efficient!”
What To See: “This couple went through all the ups and downs of planning during COVID,” Niki shares. “They were incredibly kind and flexible from beginning to end and so creative with their day’s plans! We started the day with a ceremony and intimate dinner at the beautiful Armour House, then headed over to the bride’s parent’s home to gather with a few of their closest friends.”
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gerber + scarpelli photography
What To Know: With a background in fashion, advertising, and editorial photography, gerber + scarpelli photography combines traditional posed shots with authentic and spontaneous photography. Their custom-made albums boast traditional booking binding techniques, making them an artistic heirloom that will be cherished for generations.
What To See: See how this team of Chicago photographers capture the sweet moments and beautiful light at this romantic garden wedding at Cafe Brauer at Lincoln Park Zoo.
Jai Girard Photography
What To Know: “We capture motion in stills,” Owner Jai Girard of Jai Girard Photography shares.
What To See: See how Girard turns everything from a centerpiece shot to the wedding processional into an artistic moment at this luxe Chicago wedding a The Langham, Chicago.
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Kent Drake Photography
What To Know: “With over 10 years of experience in weddings and events, my passion for the personal connection and documenting only grows,” Owner Kent Drake Morien of Kent Drake Photography tells us. “I love the fluidity, people at their happiest, while constantly drawing on any combination of technical and service expertise to save a moment.” He goes on to share, “It’s an infectious environment that I absolutely love to create in, and believe that comes through in the story I tell.”
What To See: “This was a classic example of a perfect summer wedding in Chicago,” Morien reveals. “The most genuine group of talent comes together and gives their all for two amazing families, while Chicago plays the consument host. If you are offering landmark architecture like the Field Museum and a golden sunset over the waters of Lake Michigan, sign me up. It is a gift to be able to photograph in these settings, with a wonderful couple and partners like these. I definitely do not take it for granted.”
KingenSmith
What To Know: “Our strong conviction for storytelling, extraordinary experiences, and quality craftsmanship are essential to what we create for our couples,” Owner Heather KingenSmith, of KingenSmith says. “We believe in the importance of recognizing magical moments, savoring them, and capturing them forever – with style. Images taken with our heart and soul are how we interpret real-life romances.”
What To See: “This tuscan garden wedding will always hold a special place in our hearts,” KingenSmith tells us. “The décor was breathtaking, but what really made our hearts stop was the high-frequency energy that pulsated throughout the ballroom. This undeniable vibration, created by the guests for the couple, was by far the best element and also what made photographing this wedding so memorable.”
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LaCour Images
What To Know: “Our process, along with 25 years of experience, will provide a stress-free experience that allows you to celebrate and for us to create images that are beautiful, dramatic, timeless, and genuine to your true selves,” Owner Andre LaCour of LaCour Images shares. “We combine editorial, classic, and fashion styles for a unique story of your day to be treasured for generations.”
What To See: “A beautiful, fun couple with gorgeous locations and details,” LaCour reveals of this candlelit wedding. “From the memorable first look on the terrace to the outdoor skyline photos to the spectacular ceremony setting, this wedding had it all. Outdoor cocktails were followed by a modern and classic setting with the warm candlelight.”
Nakai Photography
What To Know: “We capture the real and natural expressions through a timeless, fashion-forward approach to document the beauty and love of two souls committing themselves to each other,” Owner Kenny Nakai of Nakai Photography tells us.
What To See: “The style of the bride and groom matched the luxurious décor of the Ritz-Carlton, Chicago,” Nakai says of this black + white wedding. “We love the photos in the Ritz-Carlton lobby and on their rooftop walkway. There was so much love between the families, and it was evident in the photographs.”
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Rebecca Marie Photography
What To Know: “Taking care of my couples is at the heart of what I do,” Owner Rebecca Ickes of Rebecca Marie Photography explains. “I make it my priority to help you relax, because when you’re at ease and comfortable, gorgeous photos come naturally. It’s not the camera that made me fall in love with this profession, but the people.”
What To See: Ickes tells us of this classic Chicago wedding, “I first met the couple at another wedding I was photographing over 5 years ago. Hal surprised Christine by arriving to the wedding when she thought he wouldn’t be able to. Calling me after getting engaged years later, I surprised the two of them by knowing exactly who they were from the wedding and sending the photos from Hal’s surprise that night.”
Rick Aguilar Studios
What To Know: President Rick Aguilar of Rick Aguilar Studios wows with “expressive pictures that combine the elegance and creativity of fashion and fine art photography.” He boasts a “unique ability to capture once in a lifetime moments of the wedding day which result in a timeless record in his signature, graceful style” and your most prized moments.
What To See: “This New Years wedding was so elegant and glamorous; I loved showing off the elegance of the wedding,” Aguilar shares.
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Sheri Whitko Photography
What To Know: “In 23 years of capturing weddings and events, each one has had their own unique elements,” President Sheri Whitko of Sheri Whitko Photography reveals. “I love finding the joyful moments to capture and express them through imagery. Capturing the candid, natural moments brings out the true authenticity of the special moments.”
What To See: “Anything with Stevie Wonder and The Chainsmokers has to be off the hook! Stevie’s such a legend and you feel it in his presence,” Whitko shares of this corporate anniversary event. “The Chainsmokers are just such a fun band to dance to. Everyone at the VIP event felt an intimacy with the performers that created a truly memorable experience.”
Studio This Is
What To Know: “Our wedding photography is authentic and moment-driven — and our portraiture is editorial, inspired by our commercial and fine art work,” Lead Photographers Jeremy Bustos & Nancy Beale Canseco of Studio This Is share. “We work as a team, and everyone on our team is involved in the creative and planning process which keeps our work consistent and fresh.”
What To See: “The energy at this energy at this glamorous rustic wedding was absolutely unforgettable; and aside from that, the decor was beautiful!” the team tells us. “The entire day was filled laughter, happy tears, and some of the best dancing we’ve seen.”
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Tim Tab Studios
What To Know: “We shoot classic timeless portraits that aren’t stuffy, mix in some editorial coverage of all the details and décor, and blend in photojournalistic coverage of all the joyful and fun moments,” Photographer Tim Tabailloux of Tim Tab Studios tells us. “This allows for a balanced gallery that is ready for our clients’ homes and national publications.”
What To See: Tabailloux says, “Kendra is one of three sisters, all of whose weddings we ended up shooting. Working with her family over the years allowed us an extra level of comfort around their family and guests which made for very fun and intimate photos. Her charismatic personality also just made every little moment all the more fun and memorable.”
PartySlate’s editorial team takes great care when curating reliable lists to help you plan any type of event, from weddings and birthday parties to corporate events and galas.
We create our “Best” lists utilizing proprietary PartySlate data, as well as reviews, honors, professional speaking engagements, and more. It’s a combination of art and science designed to help you hire the best team and create your perfect celebration.
Next Steps on PartySlate…
In addition to the best Chicago photographers, PartySlate is here to help you find your entire team of wedding and event vendors. Head to our curated directory to discover everything from event planners and florists to caterers and entertainment companies. You can also find the following Chicago event professionals:
We can also help you find the perfect Chicago venue for your celebration — be it a wedding, milestone celebration, gala, or corporate event.
Lastly, you can use PartySlate to discover the best inspiration and ideas for your celebration. Browse real event albums or head to the Idea Gallery to find stunning ideas for everything from wedding arches to Bar Mitzvah dessert tables.
Your dream Chicago celebration awaits…