Unique Ideas for a Couple’s Photoshoot at a Chicago Dive Bar

Couples photoshoots? I’m unwell over how much I love them. They’re my favorite because you get to show off your weird, sweet, chaotic little dynamics; the stuff that actually makes you two you. And as a Chicago couples photographer, I’m here to pull out all the artsy, funky, nostalgic energy you bring to the table.

As a Chicago couples photographer, it’s my job to get your inner creative weirdo out of its shell and photograph you in a way that actually feels like who you are. Traditional? Never heard of her. We’re here to create photos that feel like flipping through your favorite film stills, not recreating the same Pinterest pose everyone’s already tired of. Let’s dive into how to create the concept that feels like how the inside of your brain looks.

The Recipe for the Perfect Couples Photoshoot (That Actually Feels Like You)

A location that you’re comfortable in + a photographer who just gets you + getting a lil’ creative = gold mine. 

In case no one has ever told you: the photos you get of you two don’t have to be of you running through a field at sunset in your Sunday best. They can be, if that’s your vibe! But they can also be groovy, offbeat, and totally nontraditional. And if you’re here, that’s probably so your aesthetic. 

So, as far as location, forget the rules. Your couple’s photoshoot can be done in a literal alleyway on the streets of Chicago if that’s what you want. If you choose a place with an aesthetic that matches yours, somewhere you know, somewhere you’ll be actually comfortable in… Your photos will feel laid-back and super casual. 

And speaking of comfort, your photographer should understand you (hi!!). They should know how exactly to get you comfy in front of the camera, because let’s face it, you’re not used to posing for pictures. So if it doesn’t come naturally to you, don’t fret! 90% of my couples say the same thing, and still end up looking like indie film stars. Because at your session, I always start by taking a beat to get to know you two. Half my job is reading your energy. Are you introverted chaos? Sarcastic lovers? Quiet-soft-gaze types? Then I adjust the whole session so you feel like yourselves and super casual, so that you never have to wonder WTF to do with your hands or if you look awkward in a pose. I’ve got you!!

If you’re still reading this, you’re probably a creative at heart. Maybe you thrift more than you buy retail, maybe you two bond over playlists and oat milk lattes, maybe you’re the “let’s take the long way home just because the street looks pretty” couple, and maybe your camera roll is 90% blurry concert photos. I see you! And if that’s the case, I want you to bring that creativity to your couple’s photoshoot. No rules, no constraints. You want to paint together at home? Let’s do it. Recreate your first date? I’m so in. Because yeah, we’re here to have fun, but we’re also here to make something that actually feels like a core memory.

Unique Chicago Locations for Your Couples Photoshoot

Like I said before, your couple’s photoshoot location should be somewhere that you feel like you can be yourself. My top tip? Choose somewhere that you two actually hang out. When couples opt for a place like that, their guard drops, their personalities come out, and the photos feel real. 

Need couples photoshoot location ideas in Chicago? I’m full of ‘em.

Indoor Couples Photoshoot Locations

• A record store – think 500 Days of Summer vibes and album-cover energy
• A vintage store – we can get so creative in a space like this, and it’s giving 90’s
• A groovy coffee shop – neon lights, your favorite song playing in the background, and the smell of espresso?! Sign me up.
• A bowling alley – for allll the retro goodness of my dreams

Outdoor Couples Photoshoot Locations

• The Chicago streets – romantic x editorial?? I’m obsessed
• The University of Chicago campus – trust me, the fall colors here are insane 
• A rooftop bar – skyline shots + bar vibes = DREAMYYY. I love Raised and Aba!
• Outside of a vintage theater – like you’re in La La Land. The Logan Theatre? The perfect spot.

Seriously, Chicago is stupid-beautiful and weird in the best way. There’s no shortage of places that make your photos feel like a movie.

What to Wear for Couples Photos

This is where most photographers will tell you to wear neutral colors and dress comfortably. But I’m not a regular photographer, I’m a cool photographer. 

I want you to express your personality and dress in a way that actually feels good to you. A vintage blazer and jeans, sequins, a leather jacket, Doc Martens, a mini dress… Your opportunities are endless when it comes to a couple’s photoshoot with me. Get crazy, get loud, get funky, because I’ll be your hype girl no matter what. 

My best advice, though, is to match the vibes of the shoot. If you’re going for a place with neon signs and a bold color palette, I’d put you in a leather jacket or animal print dress. If you’re going to a more neutral place and you want to bring the drama (love the energy), bright colors and funky fabrics are the move. 

And if you need help choosing which outfits to bring, hit me up. I’m always down to help you. 

Sam and Morgan’s Funky, Ultra-Unique Chicago Couples Photoshoot

Sam and Morgan have my heart. They’re just so cool. They’re unapologetically themselves, full of energy, and bring such a fresh, creative vibe with their ideas every single time. 

Their couple’s photoshoot was literal perfection. We met up at their favorite dive bar in Chicago, Broken Hearts, where Sam has played at in his band (I know, so cool) a few times. Since they chose a location that they’re already comfortable in, everything unfolded naturally and effortlessly, and the photos show it. 

They drank beers, played pool, giggled, and forgot there was a camera, like it was just a regular night out. And the photos?? They’re romantic, they’re cool AF, and most importantly, they feel like them. And that’s the whole point. The best photos come from actually living the moment, not performing for the camera.

And I have to say, Morgan’s outfit? The BLUEPRINT. She nailed the unique vibe. That tiger-print dress lives rent-free in my brain. 

Wren and Rose Photography | Chicago Couples Photographer

If this session sparked a little bit of creativity in you, hit me up. I want to hear all about it! And together, we’ll create the unique couple’s photoshoot of your dreams. 

If you want couples photos that feel like your favorite Saturday night, let’s make magic that won’t make you cringe in 5 years. The inquiry link’s right here. Talk soon, babes.