If you’re looking for where to take beautiful family Christmas photos in Chicago, you’re in the right place! The city transforms into a true holiday wonderland, complete with sparkling lights, festive trees, and snow dusted streets. Whether you’re planning a family Christmas card photoshoot, a cozy couples session, or simply want to celebrate the season with your loved ones, Chicago offers plenty of picture-perfect spots. The city elevates your holiday photos with just the right touch of winter city charm.Â
Professional photography can make the whole experience smoother, with the professional curating the lighting and offering stress-free posing advice while you enjoy the magic of the season. Below is our curated list of the best places to take Christmas photos in Chicago, from cozy indoor studios to iconic Chicago Christmas destinations.
1. MNPhotoStudios, Chicago Christmas Mini Special (Best indoor/studio Christmas Photos)
If you’re dreaming of warm and stress-free holiday photos, MNPhotoStudios is your go-to spot. A studio setting offers a controlled, comfortable environment: no shivering kids, no freezing dog paws, no grandparents layered like marshmallows. Instead, you get the freedom to wear whatever fits your Christmas aesthetic. That fancy red velvet dress you’re saving tucked in the back of your closet – it wouldn’t survive a snowy photoshoot but it will work perfectly amongst our elegant backdrop! From cozy pajamas to fancy fits, the opportunities are endless when everyone is comfortable, cozy and warm. When you have the freedom to express yourself fully, without being worried about the winter weather elements, your family Christmas pictures truly shine.
Why it’s perfect for family Christmas photos:
- Temperature-controlled studio, no freezing toddlers or red noses
- Elegant Christmas backdrop serves as the perfect setting
- 2 convenient locations
- Works with any outfit: pajamas, cozy sweaters, or dressy Holiday looks
- Fast turnaround, high-quality images, and easy online booking
Best for: Families, kids, couples, dogs, grandparents, newborns, everybody and anybody!
Tip: Indoor sessions are especially great if you want guaranteed lighting, comfort, and a curated holiday aesthetic for your cards.
Book your MNPhotoStudios Christmas session here!
2. Millennium Park (Iconic Chicago Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights)
Millennium Park is a classic Chicago holiday destination for a reason. With an official Chicago Christmas tree, sparkling lights, and festive holiday decor everywhere you look, you have a breathtaking backdrop at any angle. Add in the stunning city skyline complete with sprinkled snow reflecting in the skyscrapers, and you’ve got an instant holiday card-worthy city setting. Before, after or during your photoshoot, you get to explore an iconic Chicago gem and see famous sculptures like Cloud Gate (famously known as the bean), what more could you ask for! A fun day and a stunning view that’s hard to beat, sounds like the perfect family Christmas photoshoot in Chicago!
Best for: Families, couples, travelers, anyone wanting a classic Chicago Christmas vibe
Tip: Try visiting early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds and get clean shots of the tree and plaza.
Learn more about Millenium park features and events here!
3. Lincoln Park (Wintery Nature + Holiday Glow)
For a softer, nature inspired winter aesthetic, Lincoln Park is a local favorite. Snow-dusted pathways, evergreen trees, and bridges over the ponds make for dynamic Chicago holiday photos. The ZooLights display nearby adds an extra touch of sparkle if you want colorful evening shots. The reason it is a family favorite will be obvious the second you step foot in this iconic Chicago park, from things to do and iconic city views to see, your Christmas card photos are sure to be anything but boring!
Best for: Families, Christmas engagement photos, cozy winter portraits of all kinds.
Tip: Even without snow, the park’s greenery and winter textures make it a magical backdrop for photos.
Get tickets to Lincoln Park ZooLights here!
4. Navy Pier (Indoor & Outdoor Holiday Decor + Lake Views)
Navy Pier is fun and whimsical, but especially sparkling during the Holiday season. Perfect for families with kids or anyone who wants a playful vibe in their Christmas pictures. From indoor trees and massive wreaths to snowy lakefront landscapes with the iconic carousel, it’s full of fun family photo opportunities. There are lake, building and pier views + iconic colorful structures that add texture and depth to your photos. To add even more playfulness to your holiday family photoshoot, look into events at the pier like the annual Winter Wonderfest that takes place from Dec 5 2025 – January 4th 2026 this year.
Best for: Kids, families, and festive, playful Christmas photos.
Tip: Bring cozy layers, winter lakefront winds can get chilly, even during a quick shoot!
Check the Navy Pier Winter Wonderfest schedule here!
5. The Wrigley Building + Michigan Ave Planters (Festive Decor & Classic Chicago Architecture)
For timeless Chicago holiday photos, the Wrigley Building is a must. Its facade is always decorated with giant wreaths, garlands, and red bows. The combination of the ornate light colored building contrasted with Holiday greens creates a classic Chicago Christmas backdrop that works for couples and families (even your furry 4-legged family members)
The real star? The iconic Chicago Christmas tree that is framed by historic architecture. Having this real piece of city charm will add an undeniable classic Chicago feel to your Christmas family photos. The sweeping Holiday decor and luscious green tree paired with the vast city make it feel like you’ve just stepped into a hallmark Christmas movie! Your family Christmas card photos would stand the test of time with this classic background.
Best for: Families, couples, dogs, Chicago city aesthetic holiday card portraits
Tip: Visit in the late afternoon to capture soft winter light and the glow of holiday lights as dusk falls
6. Your Neighborhood Street (Festive Homes & Local Magic)
Sometimes the most meaningful holiday photos are right outside your door. Twinkling lights and decorated porches can capture your family’s traditions in a personal way. The genuine and cozy bundled-up moments can end up being the most sentimental family photos. You can cozy up by your fireplace and gather meaningful props like stockings or you can head to your favorite local park and capture the kids playing, snowballs hurling through the air. These local gems can provide lots of opportunities for photos and most importantly of all, memories.
Best for: Families and couples wanting candid Christmas memories
Tip: Walk the street to scout the best decorated houses, then plan a short, natural shoot by your favorite homes and neighborhood parks
Conclusion: Celebrate the Season with Photos You’ll Cherish Forever
Chicago has so many wonderful holiday photo locations, from indoor studio magic to the city’s twinkling festive outdoor spots. No matter which location you choose, the key is capturing genuine moments and the joy of the season with a classic Chicago charm.
At MNPhotoStudios, we offer both indoor Christmas minis and outdoor holiday session options around the city, ensuring you get beautiful photos no matter your style or family size.
🎄 Book your Christmas mini today to capture these memories before the season fills up! Or reach out if you’d like to schedule any of the other iconic Chicago locations mentioned today.
