Lincoln Park Zoo Engagement Photos

Looking for the perfect mix of classic Chicago skyline + nature-filled greenery and wildlife? Lincoln Park Zoo engagement photos give you both! Take a peek at this sweet couple’s portraits (featuring their adorable pup!).

Hannah & Drake’s Story

Hannah and Drake’s Chicago engagement session was sweet and heartfelt – much like their love story! A freshman year friendship at Purdue University slowly blossomed in to something more. These two fell in love, graduated, and started life together in Chicago, where they adopted their fur baby, Dudley.

On a spring vacation to London, Drake had a surprise for Hannah. In a tulip-filled garden in Hyde Park he asked her to be his wife! She excitedly accepted and was surprised a second time with family who had flown to London to celebrate the engagement. They’ll marry this August at The Brix in Carpentersville.

Including Your Dog in Your Engagement Photos

“Can we bring our dog to our engagement session?” The answer is always YES PLEASE! Pets are an important part of your life. Including them in your photos is a choice you won’t regret. Not only are pictures of them super cute, but you’ll be grateful to have memories of them captured years down the road.

To make your engagement session experience smooth and enjoyable, keep these tips in mind.

1. Make a grooming appointment for your dog! Just as you’re making appointments to have your nails, hair, and makeup done for this session, do the same for your pup so they’ll look their best.

2. Bring your mom or a friend! We’ll always take pictures with your dog first. This can take 10-15 minutes, but then we’ll focus on the two of you for the rest of the session. You’ll want to be relaxed and in the moment in your photos, so bring someone who can take your dog home once their picture time is done.

3. Pack a few toys and treats. A favorite toy or treat will help keep your dogs attention and get those cute, looking at the camera pictures!

4. Relax your expectations. While some dogs are naturally camera lovers, others feel tense, over-excited, or distracted during photo time. If they behave less than perfectly, it’s ok! Stay calm in the moment and go with the flow – tension will show up on camera. We’ll work at it until we get the right pictures, even if we have to take a few breaks for running around.

After sun-soaked photos with Dudley at the nature boardwalk, we headed to Olive Park to catch the warm glow of sunset against the glittering skyline. Hannah and Drake laughed, twirled, and snuggled up as I photographed candid moments in front of the calm waters of Lake Michigan. These two were gorgeous and at ease in front of the camera. I know their summer wedding will be filled with joy!

P.S. Enjoyed these Lincoln Park Zoo engagement photos? See more here!