The Best Time of Day for Wedding Photos in Chicago and Suburbs
When it comes to wedding photography, timing truly is everything—especially in a city as vibrant and ever-changing as Chicago. The best light, the least amount of foot traffic, and the most flattering angles all depend on the time of day. Whether you're planning a golden hour shoot along the lakefront or capturing skyline views from a rooftop, understanding Chicago’s natural lighting patterns can help you make the most of your photo session. With the city's iconic skyline, bustling neighborhoods, and seasonal shifts, choosing the right time can elevate your images from beautiful to breathtaking.
Golden Hour: The Photographer’s Dream
For most couples and photographers alike, the golden hour—roughly one hour after sunrise or one hour before sunset—is the ideal time for wedding photos. During this time, the sunlight is softer, warmer, and more flattering, casting a romantic glow on your skin and surroundings. In Chicago, golden hour can dramatically enhance photos taken along Lake Michigan, in Millennium Park, or on one of the city’s scenic bridges. It’s also a great time to avoid harsh shadows and squinting, which are common in the midday sun.
Midday: High Sun and High Risks
While it may seem convenient to schedule photos during the middle of the day—especially if your ceremony or reception falls around that time—midday light can be challenging. The sun is directly overhead, creating harsh shadows under eyes and noses and often causing squinting in outdoor shots. If photos must be taken during this window, it’s best to seek shaded areas, like under trees or near tall buildings, which are fortunately abundant in downtown Chicago. Photographers with experience in city settings will know how to manipulate this lighting using reflectors or off-camera flash.
Nighttime and Blue Hour: For a Dramatic Flair
For couples craving a more artistic or moody vibe, the blue hour—just after the sun sets—and nighttime can offer stunning results. The city’s skyline lights up, streetlights glow, and there’s a romantic, cinematic feel in the air. Locations like the Riverwalk, Michigan Avenue, or any rooftop with a city view are especially gorgeous after dark. While it does require advanced camera techniques, an experienced wedding photographer can capture magical nighttime shots that feel intimate and dramatic.
Final Thoughts
In the end, the best time of day for your wedding photos in Chicago depends on your personal style, venue logistics, and, of course, the season. Summer weddings may offer longer golden hours, while winter sunsets can come as early as 4:30 p.m. Work closely with your photographer to build a realistic timeline that includes ideal lighting windows and travel time between locations. By aligning your schedule with the best natural light, you’ll not only look your best—you’ll feel more relaxed, confident, and ready to create lasting memories in one of the most photogenic cities in the country.
About the Author
Sasha is a wedding photographer based in the Chicagoland area, with a passion for capturing the moments that make each couple's story unique. She loves writing blog articles that cover a wide range of topics, from portrait locations to gift ideas, wedding advice, and more—anything that will help her couples create a meaningful and stress-free journey. When she’s not behind the camera, Sasha enjoys traveling internationally and indulging in her favorite treat, salted peanut butter ice cream from Jeni’s. Sasha also spends her downtime hanging out with her foster cat, Missy, and listening to pop punk bands. Currently, she’s booking weddings for 2025 and 2026, and she’s excited to help even more couples bring their wedding visions to life!
