Chicago Engagement Photoshoot Ideas: Why Bar Engagement Photos Are So Underrated

As a Chicago engagement photographer, I’m a firm believer that your engagement session should not be something that feels like you copy-pasted it from Pinterest. This means as artsy and a little unhinged (affectionately) as you want it to be. And Jess and Taylor’s bar engagement photos?? They’re giving eclectic realness, and I’m seriously unwell. If you’re the kind of couple who would rather grab a drink in Logan Square than pose in a flower field… you’re in the right place. See some engagement photoshoot ideas that I’m actually obsessed with to get inspiration for your own session. 

The Best Chicago Bar Engagement Photoshoot Ideas from Jess and Taylor’s Session

Jess and Taylor were a couple with a vision. Neon lights, eclectic wall art, and some iconic outfits made this one cool AF. Bar engagement photos will forever be some of my faves, and these two did it right. Their session is filled with engagement photoshoot ideas that you won’t want to miss if you’re looking for something a little offbeat. 

Make it a Date

Okay, your engagement photoshoot? It should feel casual, in the best way. Cute outfits (that you probably thrifted), a drink or two, and date night energy always get the cutest photos. So choosing a space that feels less like a performance and more like a typical Friday night is key to getting shots that you’re comfortable and fully yourself in. 

Maybe this is at your go-to bar in Wicker Park, maybe it’s your fave coffee shop in town, or maybe it’s the first place that you two ever hung out together. As long as it’s somewhere you’re able to be fully yourself at… I’m here for it. The best Chicago engagement photos happen when you’re somewhere that already feels like you.

Engagement Photo Outfit Ideas

Vintage pieces, pops of color, and a whole lotta self-expression?? Yeah, that’s the stuff. Seriously, though, you don’t just have to pick out a flowy white dress and call it a day. If that’s what you want, I love it for you, but I have a sneaking suspicion that if you’re here, that’s not you. You’re probably my funky pattern lover whose second home is the thrift store down the road. And as a Chicago engagement photographer… That’s what I live for, TBH. 

If you’re wondering what to wear for engagement photos in Chicago, especially for a bar or nightlife vibe, here’s what works:

• Anything with feathers, sequins, or texture (like this Lisa Maree feather dress)
• Pops of color, like the blue boots from this shoot, or a colorful veil
• Monochromatic outfits, where you two are coordinating colors, but not exactly matching

Add Some Variety

Even if the whole shoot is in the same place, I’m not someone who’s gonna stay in one spot. I crave variety: different backdrops, different textures, movement. One of my favorite ways to do this will always be to pop outside and get some photos on the city streets. I love the grunge and depth that Chicago adds to a gallery so much. 

Grab a Bite (or a Drink!)

One, I’m a foodie, so this is, like, an obvious choice for me. Two, photos where you’re sharing food or drinks make me giggly every time. They’re adorable, and honestly… They’re always the photos that feel the most like you five years from now. I mean, Jess and Taylor’s drinks of choice in their hands throughout their shoot?? That’s a little detail that tells so much about them, and I cannottt. 

Who Should Choose Bar Engagement Photos

Bar engagement photos are perfect for couples looking for unique Chicago engagement photos that feel a little edgy and a lot personal. The best couples for bar engagement photos are simply couples who frequent the bar. If you two have a hangout spot or have drinks on the weekends, chances are, you feel like yourself in a place like this. And that’s when we’ll get pictures that are completely you. They’re also going to be a good fit if… 

• You want engagement photos that are different, not just standing in a field pretending you’re in a perfume commercial
• You’re a couple who’s a little edgy and fun-loving
• A bar matches the vibe of your wedding, and you want your engagement photos to feel like a lil’ sneak peek 

Whatever reason you’re choosing bar engagement photos… It’s never a bad engagement photoshoot idea. The photos hit every time. They’re romantic, honest, and completely personal. 

Bar Engagement Photo Locations in Chicago

If you’re looking for the best bar engagement photo locations in Chicago, here are a few spots that photograph insanely well and have personality for days.

• Bad Alice – this is where Jess and Taylor’s shoot was, and the wall art and neon signs gave us the coolest energy
• Broken Hearts – perfect for a modern, grungy feel. Check out this couple’s session I captured there that was full of personality. 
• Punchbowl Social – because a retro bar x arcade games would make for an insanely fun engagement photoshoot idea

Other Chicago Engagement Photoshoot Ideas

If you’re planning Chicago engagement photos and want something beyond a bar setting, here are some bonus engagement photoshoot ideas, from a Chicago engagement photographer who loves all things editorial. 

• Record store engagement photos – for the couple who’s just really cool  
• Thrift store engagement photos – think buggy shots, fun sunglasses, and fuzzy coats
• Chinatown engagement photos – I’ve done this before for Natalia and Jaekeun’s session, and it was so good
• Retro-themed engagement photos – because a themed shoot is always the move
• Art museum engagement photos – if you want a more classy, editorial feel   
• Arcade (or fair) engagement photos – because bright lights and winning each other stuffed animals is certifiably adorable 

Wren and Rose Photography | Chicago Engagement Photographer

If you’re dreaming up engagement photos that feel funky, nostalgic, and fully you… I’m your Chicago engagement photographer. Inquire here, and we’ll create something together that feels fully like you. If you’re a little groovy and a little bit of an old soul, we’ll be a great match.