You’re visiting Chicago and want to take some stunning photos of the iconic skyline from the Chicago River. With some insider tips on angles, timing, gear, and techniques, you’ll be able to capture eye-catching images of the city’s towering architecture reflected in the river that runs through downtown. Keep reading for a complete guide to setting yourself up for success when experiencing Architecture River Cruise
Scout Shooting Locations along the River
Before you start snapping photos, scout out some good locations along the downtown riverwalk. Consider the different angles offered at spots like the Michigan Avenue Bridge, the Riverwalk between Lake Shore Drive and Columbus Drive, and the Main Branch of the Chicago River between Lake and Wells. Each provides a unique vantage point to frame the skyline. Pay attention to how the light hits the buildings during different times of day.
Time Your Shoot for Optimal Lighting
The lighting on Chicago’s buildings shifts quite a bit throughout the day. For high-contrast images, shoot during the golden hours around sunrise and sunset when the structures are bathed in warm light. Pick an overcast day to capture the city enveloped in soft, even light. Avoid midday when the harsh overhead sun can create unwanted shadows and glare on the glass buildings.
Pack Lightweight, Versatile Gear
You’ll want specialized equipment to capture unique angles but keep it minimal, so you can move around freely. A mirrorless camera with a wide angle lens between 16mm to 35mm will allow you to include the sweeping cityscape in the frame. Bring a mini tripod and wireless remote, so you can create longer exposures of the water without blurring. Consider packing a polarizing filter to cut river reflections and intensify colors.
Use Angles and Leading Lines for Drama
Don’t just take a straight-on shot of the skyline. Capture the buildings from an angle along the riverwalk path or bridges. Position yourself, so the river creates leading lines that direct the viewer’s eye deep into the frame. Lie flat on a bridge and point your lens directly down at the water to reflection-heavy abstract shots. Play around by positioning yourself higher or lower than eye level.
Correctly Expose the Landscape & Buildings
Exposing such a high-contrast scene with dark buildings and bright skies can be tricky. If you go by the camera’s light meter, the skyline will likely appear too dark. Instead, take several bracketed shots at different exposures and combine them later with HDR software to retain details in both the landscape and architecture.
Refine Your Composition in Post-Processing
Review your images and polish up your compositions with photo editing software. Make adjustments like straightening a crooked horizon, boosting color saturation, or darkening blown-out skies. Careful cropping can also help emphasize leading lines or improve symmetry. Use the clone stamp tool to remove any distracting elements in the frame.
Mastering architectural photography takes experimenting with angles, lighting, gear, and compositional techniques. Follow this Chicago River skyline shooting guide, and you’ll come away with stunning images to share. Let your creativity shine through as you discover fresh ways to capture the city’s iconic architecture.