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Best Places To Take Family Photos In Chicago

While the kids have their annual school picture, many parents don't get enough chances to take professional-quality photos throughout the year. Too often parents can get caught up taking pictures of the kids, and forget how important it is to take the all-inclusive family photos. Instead of having the annual Christmas card being the only family photo taken, take advantage of some of the great locations throughout the city that can create the perfect backdrop for a family photo. Whether you're looking for some bold colors, a cityscape or a scenic backdrop, there is a perfect location for every family in Chicago.

Garfield Park Conservatory
300 N. Central Park Ave.
Chicago, IL 60624
(312) 746-5100
www.garfield-conservatory.org

The Garfield Park Conservatory is open year-round, and offers free admission to all. There are eight different indoor spaces to choose from, featuring everything from the exotic to the tranquil. For those looking for something with a bit more of a landscape backdrop, there are a number of outdoor spaces to choose from. While the Monet Garden is most known for its boldly colored flora during the warmer months, the snow-blanketed scene during the winter can be just as awe-inspiring. Take advantage of this free location, and make sure to bring along your camera.

Chicago Botanic Garden
1000 Lake Cook Road
Glencoe, IL 60022
(847) 835-5440
www.chicagobotanic.org

While admission is free throughout the year, there is a general parking fee of $25 per car. Regardless of the time of your visit, every season at the Chicago Botanic Garden has its own unique look and feel. Encompassing 385 acres, 26 gardens to choose from and four outdoor areas, there is an abundance of different backdrop scenes to choose from. With 81 acres of water and wooded areas, the snow can act as a great background for a winter family photo. The indoor spaces can be great for creating a floral background, with some great pops of color that can even be seen in winter.

The Art Institute of Chicago
111 South Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60603
(312) 443-3600
www.artic.edu

The Art Institute of Chicago has a courtyard exterior with a number of different photo opportunity background choices. The South Garden is a favorite among visitors since it features beautifully landscaped trees and paths with different appeal with each changing season. There are also two separate special event spaces inside that offer unique atmospheres to create the perfect family photo. The Terzo Piano area features a modern ambiance with sparkling glass, and the Bluhm Family Terrace features the city's skyline and a direct view into Millennium Park.

Related: Best Places In Chicago To Take Family Photos

Milton Lee Olive Park
500 N. Lake Shore Dr.
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 742-7529
www.recreationparks.net

Close to Navy Pier and Ohio Street Beach, Milton Lee Olive Park offers a picturesque getaway right in the heart of the city. For those looking for a family photo that includes the infamous Chicago skyline, this is a great spot that takes advantage of the landscape of the city. While anyone can take a photo with a backdrop of trees at their local park or backyard, the inclusion of the Chicago skyline can make a great family photo worthy of sending off to out-of-state family members. The colder months highlight a frozen scene, while warmer seasons can showcase wading boats in your background photo.

Lincoln Park Conservatory
2391 N. Stockton Dr.
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 742-7529
www.chicagoparkdistrict.com

Free admission includes access to all four indoor spaces, featuring tropical palms and ancient ferns. This historic facility is able to sustain its plant life throughout the year, so there is never any worry of your favorite backdrop changing with the seasons. The exterior of the building features a grand courtyard that highlights the architectural design of the building and its surroundings. Close to the Lincoln Park Zoo, this can be a great place to take your family photo and then complete a fun-filled day with the kids.

Related: Best Places To Go With Your Family Over The Weekend In Chicago

Sara Lugardo is a professional writer out of Chicago, Illinois. She has a Bachelor's in Communication and is currently working on her Master's. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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