Sharing today some beautiful Lincoln Park Zoo photos from multiple clients’ senior portrait sessions. Lincoln Park in Chicago is an absolutely beautiful location for photoshoots!
Lincoln Park Honeycomb
This iconic structure at the Lincoln Park nature boardwalk, affectionately called the “Honeycomb” is actually called the “Peoples Gas Education Pavilion,” designed by architect Jeanne Gang and Studio Gang, based out of Chicago. Apparently the design is meant to mimic a tortoiseshell! This suburb-dweller was not aware until recently that Chicago natural gas is delivered by the Peoples Gas company. So, the Lincoln Park honeycomb structure is named Peoples Gas Education Pavilion because it was sponsored by that company, not because the structure is supposed to evoke anything gas related. I don’t know about you, but I was scratching my head trying to figure out the gas and honeycomb connection!
The Lincoln Park honeycomb structure is such a popular photo location that I often have to have a parent or assistant “hold our spot in line” while we take photos close by!
There are so many amazing opportunities for framing clients with the oval shapes at the Lincoln Park honeycomb.
Bridge over South Pond | Lincoln Park Chicago Photos
One of the most iconic photo spots in Chicago, the bridge over south pond in Lincoln Park is a popular location! It is also one of the more challenging locations in the park from a lighting perspective, particularly during the summer.
This client is a ballet dancer and wanted to incorporate her love of dance into her photos! I do not have a dance background and was concerned about being able to coach my client with posing, so I brought along my fellow photographer and ballet instructor friend Abbie! With her assistance I felt confident that we were serving my client to the utmost!
There was a special pose that my client’s mom did for her senior photos, so it was important to her that we recreate the shot!
Grant Statue | Lincoln Park Zoo Photos
There is a beautiful archway at the Ulysses S Grant statue on the east side of the park that has these beautiful steps and stone arches! They’re perfect for framing subjects, incorporating sitting or leaning poses, and add some fun variety to your gallery.
The ivy growing on the statue is really lovely in summer and fall. If you time it just right in fall you can get a pretty pop of red color!
Lincoln Park Zoo Photos | Other Locations Around the Park
While the above three photo locations are the hot spots for Lincoln Park Zoo photos, there are a number of other location gems in the park!
I asked my client about her nail polish and rings and she said it was to reflect her love of Harry Styles! 1) I love it when clients layer in their hobbies and interests into their photos, and 2) I love how many of my senior clients this year are into Harry Styles! How fun!! I ended up editing her whole gallery while listening to his Fine Line album!
My favorite shot of the day on the right! I love the powerful pose with the lead lines and iconic John Hancock center in the background!
Especially in the fall you can get beautiful sunlight and color gradients in the foliage!
For a more classic and rustic look, I love to pose clients next to this pretty white fence!
Lincoln Park Zoo Photo Permits
Yes, a photo permit is required for Lincoln Park. It is $150/hour as of Fall 2025 and is booked up quickly, particularly on summer and fall weekends. I am happy to acquire the permit for you and add that fee to your total bill. Because the permits book up early, if you are thinking about Lincoln Park as a photoshoot location, please mention that early in our planning process so I can get to work promptly to acquire it. 🙂
Client Reviews for their Lincoln Park Chicago photos
Client 1: From Minnesota!
Kristen is the absolute best!! This was one of the best experiences ever! She made me feel so comfortable and we had so much fun. Kristen went above and beyond with planning the entire photoshoot and made everything so easy for us. I would love to work with her again!!
Client 2: From Indiana!
“Kristen Hazelton Photography is AMAZING! We had a fabulous experience and the photos she created were so beautiful and captured my daughter wonderfully. My daughter was excited for her senior photos but also nervous as she generally doesn’t like being in front of a camera. Kristen easily connected with her making for a fun photo shoot that captured beautiful smiles. My daughter loved all the photos which is the true testament to both the quality and experience provided by Kristen. If I could give more than 5 stars I would!”
Client 3: From Florida!
We recently had the pleasure of working with Kristen Hazelton for our daughter’s senior pictures in Chicago, and the experience was outstanding from start to finish. Kristen Hazelton’s focus on lighting, location, and capturing the perfect smile was truly impressive. Her expertise and attention to detail resulted in the most beautiful photos we have ever seen. Her calm and relaxing demeanor made the entire session enjoyable, and her ability to communicate clearly and effectively put us at ease. The final product was nothing short of excellent. What truly amazed us was how she managed to capture stunning photos that even our teenager, who is often critical of her own pictures, absolutely loved. We wholeheartedly recommend Kristen Hazelton to anyone looking for a professional, talented, and personable photographer. This was an experience we’ll cherish forever.
Kristen Hazelton is a multi award-winning Chicago, IL and San Francisco Bay Area high school senior, university graduate, and family photographer. She also photographs in San Diego, CA, Santa Barbara, CA, Monterey, CA, and Seattle, WA. She is a firm believer in human rights and welcomes LGBTQ+ and nonbinary clients. You can inquire about your own photoshoot here!
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