University of Chicago Engagement Photos | Feras & Mirit
What started with a surprise proposal by the lakefront eventually led to some incredibly romantic University of Chicago engagement photos for Feras and Mirit.
The entire session felt completely true to who they are and the location played a huge role in that.
Why the University of Chicago is Perfect for Engagement Photos
The University of Chicago feels unlike anywhere else in the city.
When most people picture Chicago, they imagine downtown skyscrapers, busy intersections, and the energy of the Loop. But the moment you step onto campus at the University of Chicago, everything slows down a little.
Here’s what makes this one of the best Chicago engagement locations for couples:
Classic Gothic architecture that makes for dramatic photos
Beautiful walkways and courtyards
Historic structures and stone textures
Nearby photo spots within walking distance
How to Get to the University of Chicago for Your Engagement Session
If you’re choosing the University of Chicago for engagement photos, the campus is located in Hyde Park in Chicago, about 20 minutes from downtown depending on traffic.
Parking can sometimes be tricky during busy hours, especially near the Main Quad and Harper Memorial Library. There are paid garages nearby, but spots can fill up quickly on weekdays.
I usually recommend couples take an Uber or Lyft, because it makes moving around much easier and removes the stress of finding parking before the session.
Feras & Mirit’s Engagement Session
Feras and Mirit’s story with me actually started months before this session during a surprise proposal at North Avenue Beach in Chicago. Feras had reached out after being referred by a friend to me while planning his lakeside proposal with a beautiful floral setup overlooking the skyline.
The entire proposal felt like a blur in the best possible way. Between the emotion, excitement, and the city's energy, everything came together naturally.
A few months later, Mirit reached out while planning their wedding and told me so many people had been asking who photographed their proposal photos after they shared them online. She said she wanted me to photograph their wedding too, which means the world to me!
Whenever couples book a wedding package with me, I include a complimentary engagement session to help everyone feel more comfortable before the wedding day. It gives us a chance to spend time together without the pressure of the wedding day.
When Mirit told me she’d like their engagement photo session to be at the University of Chicago, I was so excited. I had photographed a graduation session here before, so I already knew how beautiful the campus was, but this was my first time photographing a couple there.
Best Photo Spots for University of Chicago Engagement Photos
Here are some of my favorite photo spots on the University of Chicago campus.
1. Bond Chapel & the Cloisters
This is probably one of the most iconic areas for University of Chicago engagement photos.
The stone archways and covered walkways create incredibly soft light, especially later in the afternoon. The entire area feels cinematic and intimate without needing much direction.
2. Harper Memorial Library
Harper Memorial Library has some of the most recognizable architecture on campus.
The tall stone exterior, detailed windows, and historic feel create beautiful backdrops for wide portraits.
3. The Main Quad
Particularly in the spring and early fall, the greenery and walkways lined with trees are ideal for candid moments and movement shots.
4. Hidden Walkways & Ivy Walls
Small ivy-covered walls, quiet pathways, and random stone corners often create the most intimate photos. That’s part of what makes this one of my favorite Chicago engagement session locations, even the in-between spaces photograph beautifully.
Best Time for University of Chicago Engagement Photos
The best time to photograph at the University of Chicago is a few hours before sunset. The warm light reflecting against the stone buildings creates this really soft glow that makes the campus feel even more romantic.
Early mornings on a weekday also work really well if you want less people around.
What to Wear for Your Engagement Photo Session
Since the campus already has so much texture and detail, timeless outfits usually work best for University of Chicago engagement photos: neutral tones, darker colors, and dresses with movement all photograph beautifully against the architecture.
I recommend avoiding bright neon colors or heavy patterns since they can compete with the scenery.
Comfortable shoes are also important because we will be walking around the campus.
Are you Ready To Get Engaged?
If you're ready to get engaged, then please contact me as soon as you can so I can help you plan your day!
You can fill out this form at https://calebschaftlein.com/contact for more info!
You can check out my engagement pricing HERE!
I’m a Chicago Wedding and Engagement Photographer and would love to make your proposal extra special!
You can view more photos from the University of Chicago on my blog.
