Chicago · Portrait Photography
Chicago Portrait Photography
Professional portrait photography in Chicago, Illinois
Chicago Portrait Photography
Portrait photography at Candid Studios is about creating images that feel genuine — not stiff, overposed, or artificial. Since 2016, we've photographed individuals and small groups for personal milestones, creative projects, dating profiles, social media presence, and professional branding across Colorado, Florida, Ohio, Texas, Illinois, and New York. Sessions run 30-90 minutes depending on the package and include wardrobe guidance, location recommendations, and posing direction that feels natural. We shoot with fast prime lenses and natural light whenever possible, supplemented by portable lighting for indoor or overcast conditions. Every portrait session includes a private online gallery with 25-60 retouched images, digital downloads, and a print release. What makes our portrait work different is the time we invest before and during the shoot to understand who you are and how you want to be seen. We photograph seniors, couples, individuals, creatives, and professionals — and we approach each session as a collaboration rather than a transaction. The result is a set of images you'll actually want to use, not just ones that technically look correct.
Our Chicago Portrait Photography Process
Book
Contact to secure date.
Plan
We help plan details.
Execute
Professional coverage.
Deliver
Receive gallery.
Support
Ongoing support.
Chicago Portrait Photography Pricing
Starting at $350/hr.
What Chicago Clients Say
I was dreading my portrait session but the photography made it feel like hanging out with a friend. I actually had fun, and the photos? I barely recognized myself—in the best way possible.
These portraits capture who I really am, not some stiff posed version of me. My family finally has photos where everyone looks natural and happy. Worth every penny.
I needed professional portraits for my book jacket and speaking engagements. Candid Studios delivered images that are polished but approachable—exactly the impression I wanted to make.
Chicago Portrait Photography FAQ
All sessions include a pre-session consultation to plan your look and location, professional photography during the session, expert retouching and color correction, a private online gallery, high-resolution digital files with print release, and guidance on wardrobe and preparation.
Start with well-fitting clothes in solid colors that make you feel confident. Get a good night's sleep, stay hydrated, and moisturize your skin. We'll send a detailed preparation guide after booking with specific tips for your session type and location.
Mini sessions run 20-30 minutes and are perfect for social media and one specific need. Standard sessions are 60 minutes with 1-2 outfit changes. Extended sessions run 90-120 minutes with multiple looks and locations. We never rush—the time is yours.
We shoot in our studio for a controlled, polished look, or on location at parks, urban areas, your home, or any meaningful spot. We know the best locations in every city we serve and can recommend options that match your aesthetic and personality.
Mini sessions deliver 15-20 edited images. Standard sessions deliver 30-40 images. Extended sessions deliver 50-70+ images. Every delivered photo is individually retouched, color-corrected, and optimized for both print and digital use.
Yes, professional retouching is included with every portrait. We remove temporary blemishes, smooth skin naturally, brighten eyes, and ensure you look your best while still looking like you. We never over-retouch—the goal is polished, not plastic.
Absolutely! Standard sessions include 1-2 outfit changes, and extended sessions allow for 3-4. We recommend variety: one dressy, one casual, and one that represents your personal style. We provide changing space at all locations.
Most people feel this way! Our photographys are experts at putting you at ease with conversation, movement, and natural prompts. We don't do stiff, posed shots. Within minutes, you'll forget the camera is there. This is what we do every day.
Yes, we have partnered hair and makeup artists available for an additional fee. Professional hair and makeup elevates your portrait results significantly and we highly recommend it for headshots, personal branding, and special occasion portraits.
The golden hour—1-2 hours before sunset—provides the most flattering, warm, natural light. Early morning also offers beautiful soft light with fewer crowds. We schedule outdoor sessions to capture you in the best possible natural lighting.
