About Chicago
Amongst the majestic beauty of the Midwest, you’ll find one of America’s biggest cities resting right on the banks of Lake Michigan. Chicago, also known as The Windy City, is the capital of Illinois and home to such powerhouse sports teams as the Blackhawks (hockey), the Bulls (basketball), the White Sox, and the Cubs (both baseball).
The streets of Chicago, Illinois, are teeming with artists, music, lights, and culture spanning generations. While in town, you can explore many universities, museums, parks, and photo studios for photo shoots.
With so many buildings, workspaces, and an ever-growing magazine of artists, finding a photo studio venue in Chicago IL will be easy. This city is known for its art and culture, so it thrives on providing competent spaces to create.
Whether you are looking for a new space with your friends to build from the ground up or join a ready-made team, Chicago has some great options to explore.
With so many locations, Chicago, IL, is like a dream location for photographers to work on their projects, from filming locations to bright lighting at night and natural light throughout the day, tall walls, wood beams, wood floors, exposed brick, and many photography elements that can produce the best photos.
Photo Studio Options in Chicago
When setting up your photo studio venue in Chicago IL, you will need a few items to help you get started.
- Lighting
Lighting is one of the key elements of getting some good shots. Soft light helps the light wrap around objects smoothly and invitingly, while hard lighting is more direct and invasive. There is equipment that will help with both of these styles, plus more, depending on your photo shoot needs. Portrait photography also requires lighting equipment, so it's best to set everything up correctly in the studio.
- Camera Bag (and Essentials)
If you have a fully stocked camera bag, you can adapt and overcome any obstacle at the photo studio. Since a photography studio is a creative space, ensure your camera is of good quality, and your bag is full of backup SD cards, various lenses, and plenty of batteries.
- Backdrops
Whether you are doing a professional photo shoot for a headshot or you need to put your subject with a magic dinosaur on the moon, the right space and backdrop will help make that possible. You can have a variety of backdrops or go with a green screen and natural light and adjust it digitally in your studio.
Photo Studio Companies in Chicago
Nearby companies can help get your Chicago IL, photo studio venue off the ground with knowledgeable expertise.
- Central Camera
This place isn’t Chicago’s oldest camera shop for nothing! The fine folks at Central Camera have proven time and time again that they have the cameras you need at the prices that work for your wallet and over 100 years! Their props have worked perfectly, with many clients saying they had a great experience. They also offer additional equipment for your photoshoot, photo studio, lounge area shoot, loft space, or event space.
- Magnanimous Rental
If you want to rent camera gear for your photoshoot or event, consider Magnanimous Rentals. They have fantastic reviews and offer everything on hire. They offer lenses, cameras with several features, and lighting that will match your style; you can get modern grip equipment for your site at an additional cost.
- Tamarkin Camera
Another option for your camera gear needs is Tamarkin Camera. Tamarkin offers some of the best gear money can buy, ensuring that your equipment matches the quality of your vision.
Pros and Cons of Photo Studios in Chicago
Every city is different when it comes to finding a photo studio space. When renting a photo studio in Chicago IL, by the hour or the day, there are a few things to consider.
Advantages
- Amazing food
No matter your project, it won't be as good if your taste buds aren’t happy while you’re doing it. Luckily, Chicago has some of the best restaurants and bars in Illinois.
- Cheaper cost of living
Studio rentals in Chicago IL, will be easier and more manageable than in similar-sized cities. The cost of living is much lower than in New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco. You can rent a unique space on the second floor of a building or a loft on the lower west side with large windows, concrete floors, and plenty of room for a fraction of the cost.
- Stunning architecture
With its towering skyscrapers and gorgeous architecture with east-facing windows, ceiling windows, natural light, and more, Chicago has the vistas and inspiration to be an ideal place to rent a photo studio for professional photographers. In addition, Chicago has the top photo studios in the country because of its uniqueness.
Disadvantages
- Traffic
Chicago is great for many things, but driving during rush hour is not one of them. The traffic through the city is dreadful at its heaviest times, which could harm your drive. Places like Logan Square, Campbell Ave, and Hubbard St tend to have more traffic than others, especially during the peak rush hour.
- Tough winters
Lake Michigan is beautiful, except when it comes to creating harsh weather. Strong winds mixed with terrible snow storms make this a tough place to drive in the winter. While most of the city looks like a Christmas movie stage and is a great space to capture stunning photos, the harsh weather could make outdoor furniture and props soggy. However, it can vary depending on the severity of the winds. An experienced photographer can understand when to start shooting and when to shift to a studio.
- Very few green areas
Finding a green space in Chicago IL will prove to be quite difficult. You may have to rely on a studio. While you will surely find sidewalks, parking lots, roads, and buildings galore, natural wonderlands are few and far between. In addition to a green room in a photography studio, you may also require other equipment for outdoor green shoots or events.
Famous Locations in Chicago
- United Center
If a big-name act is coming through Chicago, it can be found at the United Center. Treat yourself to a night you and the family will never forget with a professional photographer to take some lovely family photos. Top musical acts, world comedy tours, and major sporting events can be found here. The United Center is home to the Chicago Blackhawks and the Chicago Bulls.
- Art Institute of Chicago
Art lovers are sure to have a memorable time at the Art Institute of Chicago. This world-class museum offers visitors access to thousands of timeless pieces, including sculptures, drawings, photography, and, who can forget some original Monet paintings? Whether you are a history buff, an aspiring artist, or just a lover of beautiful art, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-see. Head on to Chicago, IL, for a vast range of art pieces and begin your search for the best piece in town.
- Shedd Aquarium
Imagine a place where all the world’s aquatic creatures, from the coldest waters to the warmest, can be found under the same roof. Head on over to the Shedd Aquarium, where you can feed a stingray, watch a beluga whale dance, and see penguins waddle around. This is a great place to learn, explore, and discover.