Dog Photography Locations
For me, authenticity is key when photographing dogs and our connection with them. Just like humans, our pups thrive when they feel comfortable and safe. By often opting for less touristy locations away from the bustling downtown area and considering your pup’s personality and needs), we try create an atmosphere that encourages dogs to let their guard down, fostering an environment of relaxation, genuine expressions and connection.
*If you need help narrowing down any of the below options and/or deciding what will be best for your furry loved one(s) (especially if they are generally nervous or reactive), please don’t hesitate to reach out!
Mills Park (Oak Park, IL) -
This location is better suited for dogs who are calm and confident around people & dogs, as this is a public space where people often take walks with or without their dogs.
Early morning or evening sessions are recommended for this location.
Free street parking is available near Pleasant Home on Forest Ave.
North Ave Beach (Chicago, IL)
General: This & Belmont Harbor are two exceptions to avoiding the
”popular” spots. These skyline views are really hard to beat and hands down is probably my favorite urban spot for sessions when you want that classic city skyline. The location often provides enough space for great photos (with some patience required as people pass by).
Best for: dogs who are calm & confident around people, bikes, dogs, etc.
Recommended time of day: Early morning or evening. Sunrise sessions tend to be a little quieter for this location if that’s helpful for you & your pup (and provides silhouette portrait opportunities, weather permitting).
Parking: There is a paid parking lot (approximately $25 for up to 2 hours) a
Restrictions - the beach may not be accessible depending on summer sports activities (this is a popular beach volleyball spot).
Humboldt Park (Chicago, IL)
An excellent choice for a dog photo session due to its scenic beauty, ample space, dog-friendly environment, diverse photo opportunities, convenient location (and easy parking!). Your dog will have a fantastic time exploring the park…or just being on the receiving end of al fresco belly rubs, as Doc did seen pictured below. 😂🥰
While we can keep our distance, sidewalks or paths may be needed to explore the park for a variety of photos/backgrounds. If your dog is reactive, we can try to avoid others, but just like the Wilmette location it is a beautiful park and we will likely see other dogs.
Please note - this park is a popular location for wedding, quinceaneras, and portraits. It is likely to be busier on the weekends, so we may need to adjust and walk to different areas of the park. May not be recommended for pets or people with mobility challenges.
Horner Park (Chicago, IL)
Spacious with well-maintained grounds that offer ample room for dogs to roam and play (long leads preferred - feel free to reach out if you need recommendations), while its beautiful tree-lined paths and large hill provide a charming backdrop and/or silhouette photos around sunset for capturing memorable moments with your furry friend.
*Please note that this park is popular for a variety of activities and would be best suited for a confident, easy going pup who doesn’t mind being around dogs or humans.
Belmont Harbor (Chicago, IL)
Best for: Similar to North Ave Beach, this location is better suited for dogs who are calm and confident around people, dogs (and geese). It offers both skyline and beautiful photos with the lake in the background. .
Recommended time of day: Early morning or evening. Sunrise sessions tend to be a little quieter for this location if that’s helpful for you & your pup (and provides silhouette portrait opportunities, weather permitting).
Parking: There are paid spots available near the harbor. Parking is typically plentiful & paid - requires a bit of walking from the parking lot.
Cons: Popular area and may not provide a feeling of privacy since it is much smaller than North Ave - with people often walking by or sitting to relax with a view of the skyline.
Douglass Park (Chicago, IL)
Great option for clients a little further south/southwest and spans approximately 218 acres, making it a vast and versatile location with plenty of space and options such as beautiful willow trees as our backdrop.
*Best for morning sessions and dogs who will be comfortable with a dog or two possibly passing by 10+ feet away out for a walk if you are interested in the photos seen here. Street parking is available near by via a short walk, making this a great option for anyone with mobility issues or physical limitations.
Please note - This location is typically unavailable during September due to Riot Fest.
Gillson Park (Wilmette, IL)
Situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, Gillson Park provides a stunning backdrop. The park features lush greenery, mature trees, and vibrant flowers, creating a picturesque setting that adds depth and beauty to the images. It is one of my favorite places to go for photos and in my free time (Nala and I had some great outings and memories here).
I keep this location a secret as much as possible because it is a beautiful escape. I would hate for it to become entirely overrun by photographers and ruin the peacefulness and enjoyment it provides (like Lincoln Park come September when fall family photo/holiday card season begins…).
This park is one of the best locations for a highly reactive dog because of the large park space to work with, but please know that it is popular with dog lovers out for a walk so other pups may pass by.
Beach/lake photos are also an option. Please let Kimberly know if that is a top priority and if anyone has mobility issues or is unable to walk 15+ minutes from the park area to the water. In that case, planning to park & meet closer to the beach first would be best.
If your dog tends to be quite vocal generally, please let Kimberly know so that we are not disturbing the neighbors who live across the street from the park early in the morning, as well any behaviors or triggers to avoid that might stimulate a conversation with your pup. :)
