If you're looking for a Chicago location that feels peaceful while still showcasing the city's skyline, Milton Lee Olive Park is one of my favorite places for family photography.


Just minutes from Streeterville and Navy Pier, this hidden gem offers open green space, Lake Michigan, and one of the best views of the John Hancock Center - all without feeling crowded.


Whether you're documenting life with a new baby, chasing a curious toddler, or simply wanting to remember this season together, it's a location that gives families room to slow down and be themselves.

Couple embracing on Chicago lakefront pier with stunning city skyline and John Hancock Center in background on clear day.
Family spreading a blanket on green grass in a sunny park, with a young child standing between two adults.

Why I Love Milton Lee Olive Park for Family Photos



1. The Chicago skyline without the crowds


One of my favorite things about Milton Lee Olive Park is that it feels surprisingly quiet for being so close to downtown.


You still get iconic Chicago views, but instead of busy sidewalks and tourists, you have open paths, trees, and lakefront scenery.


It's perfect for families with young children who need space to explore.

Mother holds toddler son while pointing at city skyline view from waterfront promenade on sunny day.

2. Beautiful light all morning and evening


Morning sessions are especially peaceful here.


The soft light reflects off Lake Michigan, creating clean, natural colors that photograph beautifully.


Sunset is equally stunning, with warm light falling across the grass and skyline.

A smiling young Asian boy holds hands with his parents while walking outdoors in a park during autumn.

3. Plenty of variety in one session


Without walking very far, we can photograph:


Lakefront views

Open grassy areas

Tree-lined paths

Chicago skyline

The John Hancock Center

Quiet stone walkways


This variety helps your gallery feel diverse while keeping the session relaxed.

A happy Asian family with two parents and a young toddler sitting on a stone wall by the waterfront on a sunny day.
Two people playing in a sunny urban park with lush green trees and a modern skyscraper in the background.
Asian family with mother holding toddler and father touching child's face outdoors near a Ferris wheel on a sunny day.

4. A wonderful location for little kids


As a family photographer, I rarely ask children to sit still.


Instead, I encourage walking, exploring, cuddling, and playing together.


Milton Lee Olive Park naturally supports this style because children have room to move while parents can simply enjoy being together.


Those genuine interactions are often the photographs families treasure most years later.

Father joyfully lifting young child in sunny autumn park, both smiling, surrounded by green and golden foliage.

Is Milton Lee Olive Park a Good Location for Babies?


Absolutely.


The park is easy to navigate with a stroller and offers plenty of peaceful spots for feeding, cuddling, or taking breaks.


For families with babies under one year old, it's one of my favorite outdoor locations in Chicago.

Best Time for Family Photos at Milton Lee Olive Park


My favorite times are:


Early morning for soft light and fewer visitors

Golden hour before sunset for warm, glowing light


Both create a relaxed experience with beautiful natural light.

Couple standing on a pier overlooking Lake Michigan with the Chicago skyline and John Hancock Center on a clear day.

Who Is This Location Perfect For?


Milton Lee Olive Park is ideal for:


Families with babies or toddlers

Newborn lifestyle sessions outdoors

Maternity sessions

Couples

Families visiting Chicago

Anyone wanting both nature and skyline in one location

Asian family of three poses by lakeside with city skyline backdrop amid autumn trees on a sunny day.
Family of three walking hand-in-hand along a tree-lined park path on a sunny autumn day near a waterfront.

Looking for a Family Photographer in Chicago?


If you're hoping for photographs that feel relaxed, natural, and true to your family, I'd love to help.


My sessions are less about perfect poses and more about preserving the way this season of life actually feels.


Whether your little one is running through the grass, asking to be carried, or stopping to look at the lake, those moments are often the ones you'll treasure most.


I'd love to photograph your family at Milton Lee Olive Park, or help you choose another Chicago location that feels just right for you.

Contact Me Today
A smiling woman in a white dress holds a camera while posing in an elegant white room with a marble fireplace.