Love in Bloom: A Romantic Engagement Session at Washington Square Park, Chicago

There’s something timeless about Washington Square Park—nestled in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, this charming green space becomes a poetic backdrop for couples in love. Recently, we had the joy of photographing an engagement session here, and the results were nothing short of magical.

As a Chicago wedding photographer, I’m always on the lookout for spots that exude natural beauty and authentic city charm. Washington Square Park, with its historic fountain, winding pathways, and canopy of trees, is one of those hidden gems that offers both elegance and intimacy—perfect for capturing romantic engagement photos in the heart of the city.

A Springtime Stroll Through History

This engagement shoot took place on a crisp spring afternoon, when the park was coming alive with blossoms and golden light. The historic cast-iron fountain gurgled softly as the couple shared a quiet moment on a nearby bench. Surrounding them were budding magnolias and ivy-covered walls, adding texture and depth to each frame. Whether standing under the arching branches or walking hand-in-hand down the brick pathways, their joy was palpable and natural—a reflection of both their love and the serenity of the setting.

Why Washington Square Park Is Ideal for Engagement Photos

Unlike some of the more tourist-heavy areas in Chicago, Washington Square Park remains a peaceful refuge. Its scale makes it feel private yet photogenic, and the soft, diffused light filtering through its tall trees adds a dreamy quality that’s perfect for storytelling through images.

The park’s mix of greenery, iron fencing, and city skyline peeking in the distance provides variety in backdrops without needing to travel far. Whether you're envisioning a cozy, candid session or posed portraits with editorial flair, this location delivers.

As a Chicago engagement photographer, I especially love using the central fountain and the wrought-iron gazebo as focal points for timeless, elegant shots. Golden hour at Washington Square Park is truly something special—the low sun bathes the park in warm, romantic tones, enhancing every embrace and every laugh.

Capturing the Real Moments

One of my favorite parts of this session was how natural the couple felt in the environment. We started with soft, posed shots to help them ease into the camera, but quickly transitioned into genuine, candid moments—like their spontaneous dance under the trees or a shared laugh after a whispered joke. It’s those unscripted scenes that create truly romantic engagement photos.

Their outfits—she in a flowing ivory dress, he in a relaxed blazer and jeans—were the perfect blend of stylish and comfortable, which is always what I recommend to couples for engagement shoots. It allowed them to move freely and feel like themselves.

Insider Tips for Your Engagement Session at Washington Square Park

If you’re considering this park for your own session, here are a few tips:

• Best time to shoot: Late afternoon to early evening for that golden glow.
• What to wear: Stick with neutrals and soft pastels to complement the greenery and architecture.
• Bring a prop: A bouquet, picnic blanket, or even your pup can add personality and charm.
• Permit not needed: For casual, non-commercial sessions, this spot remains accessible and hassle-free.

From the quiet charm of its winding paths to the soft rustle of leaves overhead, Washington Square Park gave us the perfect canvas to capture this couple’s love story. It's these moments—genuine, joy-filled, and beautifully unposed—that remind us why we do what we do.

Whether you're newly engaged, planning a surprise proposal, or simply dreaming of your own romantic photo session in the heart of Chicago, we’re here to help you preserve every moment.

At Albany Capture, we specialize in crafting engagement photos that feel like you—real, romantic, and unforgettable.