When I first met Kristina and Matt a couple of years ago, I could immediately sense their warmth and excitement for their upcoming wedding day. They were open-minded, creative, and eager to trust my vision as we discussed their engagement photos. After chatting through their ideas and priorities, I knew exactly where to take them—the stunning grounds surrounding Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry.
Why I Recommend the Museum of Science & Industry Grounds for Photos
This location is consistently at the top of my list for engagement sessions. It’s the kind of place that truly has it all: grand architectural details, lush gardens, peaceful ponds, elegant staircases, and even a beach nearby. It’s rare to find a single setting with such an impressive array of backdrops, especially one that doesn’t require stepping inside the museum.
Here are some highlights of MSI Chicago:
Variety Without Wasted Time
One of the biggest perks of finding a single location with diverse backgrounds is maximizing our session time. Rather than losing precious minutes commuting from one location to another, we can spend that time capturing authentic moments. Kristina and Matt loved this aspect, too—less travel meant more photos, more relaxed poses, and more candid laughter captured on camera.
Multiple Looks, One Great Location
If you’re unsure of exactly what aesthetic you prefer, the Museum of Science & Industry grounds are ideal. Do you want elegant architectural shots? Check. Soft, romantic garden scenes? Absolutely. Casual, playful moments on the beach? Yes, that’s here too. Having multiple settings in one spot also gives you the chance to easily change outfits and achieve completely different looks without having to travel.
Kristina first wore a chic white A-line mini dress with puff sleeves, while Matt complemented her beautifully in a sharp black suit (sans tie, which added an easygoing touch). Their outfits created a sophisticated and timeless look that meshed seamlessly with the classic architecture and formal gardens.
For our later shots along the nearby beach, Kristina switched into a flowing white maxi dress that caught the breeze just right. Matt traded his suit for more casual attire: a tailored button-down, jeans, and sneakers. Their outfits and ease with each other highlighted their personalities—warm, stylish, and comfortable in their own skin.
Gorgeous Lighting & Natural Filters
Another reason this location is a photographer’s dream is the consistently gorgeous natural light. Whether the sun is glowing softly or shining brightly, the museum grounds offer plenty of spots to soften or enhance the light naturally. We can use tall trees, archways, columns, and foliage as filters to manage strong sunlight beautifully. I love how this flexibility allows couples to relax and enjoy themselves, knowing the photos will turn out beautifully no matter the weather.
Kristina & Matt: A Creative Collaboration
I really enjoyed how Kristina and Matt were open to combining traditional poses with more artistic exploration. We played with motion blur, unique framing, and candid moments of genuine laughter and connection. Couples who embrace this kind of creative approach make my job an absolute joy. It’s always exciting to collaborate with couples who trust me to go out on a limb and try something new; the result is always fresh, authentic, and personalized.
From Engagement Photos to Their Armour House Wedding
This gorgeous engagement session wasn’t the end of our journey together. Kristina and Matt got married at the exquisite Armour House in 2024, and I was honored to be their wedding photographer as well. Working with them on both occasions allowed me to truly witness their story unfold—one filled with genuine connection and deep affection.
Their unforgettable chemistry and adventurous spirit during this engagement session became one of my favorite memories. Looking back now, revisiting their photos to share in this blog brings back all the smiles, laughter, and warmth of that day.
Creating Lasting Inspiration for Other Couples
My goal with each blog post is to help future couples visualize possibilities for their own photographs. Kristina and Matt’s session perfectly captures this vision. Their photos illustrate that you don’t have to travel to multiple locations or endure lengthy commutes to achieve variety. A well-chosen spot like the Museum of Science & Industry grounds provides all the inspiration you need, beautifully packaged into one location.
As you’re planning your engagement session, I hope Kristina and Matt’s photos offer the inspiration and encouragement you need. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions—helping couples find their ideal photo spots and styles is one of my favorite parts of the job.
Ready to Capture Your Own Story?
Choosing a versatile location, embracing creativity, and staying true to your personality are keys to engagement session success. Kristina and Matt’s session illustrates this perfectly. If their photos spark your imagination, let’s chat about bringing your vision to life. I’m always just a message away, ready to help you capture memories you’ll cherish forever.
