One of the most exciting parts of planning your senior photo session is choosing the perfect location! Chicagoland is full of beautiful and unique photo locations that make every session special. Whether you’re looking for an urban vibe, charming Hallmark feel, or an outdoorsy setting, I’ve got you covered!

Here are some of my favorite locations for senior photos in the Chicago suburbs:

1) Downtown Naperville

If you’re dreaming of an urban look with a touch of nature, Downtown Naperville is the perfect spot! I love capturing seniors along the charming alleys and local businesses, and then finishing the session with that golden light along the Naperville Riverwalk. Bonus: This is a great area to grab a post-session bite to eat with your family and celebrate this milestone in your senior year!

2) Downtown Frankfort

Looking for a location that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie? Downtown Frankfort has it all – colorful historic buildings, charming downtown streets, and a nearby forest preserve, all within walking distance. If you are looking for a hair and makeup team local to Frankfort, I recommend checking out Fuse Salon, ask for my girl Courtney to style your hair!!

3) Cantigny Park

A very curated location – think botanical gardens means historic elegance! You can always count on Cantigny to give a perfect backdrop no matter the season. If you are looking for photos with water, a historic mansion, weeping willow trees and a rose garden… I think you found the spot! Bring your walking shoes and your favorite playlist, and we’re going to have the best time At Cantigny! 

Since Cantigny is a private venue, be sure to check permit and parking details and if there are any events taking place before your session.

4) St. James Forest Preserve

This is my go-to spot for seniors who want a whimsical, effortless, free-spirited vibe. Bring your favorite flowy dress, cowgirl boots, and a sunset, and we’ll create magic! St. James Forest Preserve offers almost endless variety with old barns, white picket fencing, and tons of tree-lined paths. Bonus: I adore the overgrown fields that give that perfect prairie look in the summer and fall months. 

I basically live at this location in the summer and rightfully so! Seniors more than ever are leaning into the natural, less curated, organic feel in their photos, and I couldn’t love this more. Give me the best version of yourself, your favorite flowy dress and the perfect sunset and we’re creating magic every time!

5) Downtown Geneva

Piggybacking off of downtown Frankfort, this is an area that gives those small-town, Hallmark vibes, too! The majority of the businesses in this area are locally owned (and along brick roads!), and I love that every storefront is unique in color and architecture. Chasing the sunset between streets is the absolute best in Downtown Geneva! One of my favorite parts of shooting in Geneva is ending the session at Graham’s for ice cream… Because celebrating your senior year should be just as fun as it is memorable!

If you’re ready to plan your dream senior photo session in Chicagoland, reach out today! I can’t wait to meet you and start planning your senior pics!!

Jillian Photography is a Chicagoland wedding & senior photographer serving Naperville, St. Charles, and beyond. Get in touch with Jill here & follow along on social for what’s happening behind the scenes!

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