Sharing today some upscale, architectural senior and graduate portraits; come check out these Rookery building photos!
The Rookery Building | Chicago IL
The Rookery Building in Chicago IL is a gorgeous skyscraper in the middle of downtown Chicago. It was in 1888 by architecture firm Burnham and Root. They were responsible for making the skyscraper sturdy on the swampy Chicago soil, and for creating the beautiful Light Court and Oriel Staircase.
Between 1905 to 1907, Frank Lloyd Wright was hired to renovate the lobby and Light Court of the building, covering up many pieces of iron scaffolding with white Carrara marble to create a lighter and brighter look. The building changed ownership in the 1930s and was renovated again, before finally being restored to the Wright design between 1989-1992.
Why is it called the Rookery? Years ago before the skyscraper was built, there was a water reservoir on this site that attracted local birds. The name “The Rookery” stuck, as a rookery is a collection of homes for rook birds.
If you’re an architecture loving senior, someone who wants to celebrate Chicago’s history in their portraits, or looking for an upscale indoor portrait location, look no further!
Rookery Building Photos
There are a number of beautiful locations in and around the skyscraper for Rookery building photos. Below, I’m sharing a few of my favorite spots.
Light Court
The Light Court includes the grand hall on the main floor of the Rookery Building, with a gorgeous grand staircase, opulent chandeliers, and lots of natural light from the skylights above. You can see clearly where Frank Lloyd Wright added the white Carrara marble to cover the dark iron scaffolding. A student of Wright, William Drummond, is responsible for adding in the beautiful grand staircase to the Light Court during a renovation in the 1930s.
On the second floor of the Light Court at the Rookery building there’s the opportunity to pose alongside the beautiful chandeliers creating some fun foreground!
Oriel Staircase
Designed by John Wellborn Root, these are the images you’re likely picture when you’re thinking of the Rookery Building in Chicago IL. This ornate staircase is an absolutely stunning location for portraits!
Rookery Building Photo Permit
The Rookery Building does require a photo permit, to the tune of $450/hour. As part of my planning services I am happy to acquire this permit for your photoshoot and will add the fee to your final bill.
Client Experience
Here’s what one of my Rookery building photo clients had to say about her experience!
I couldn’t be happier with Kristen and the incredible job she did with my law school graduation photos. This was such a huge milestone in my life, and she truly brought my vision to life in the most beautiful way.
Her professionalism stood out from day one – she handled every detail seamlessly, which allowed me to just focus on celebrating this major accomplishment. When she said ‘trust the process,’ I’m so glad I did! The results speak for themselves.
The photos are absolutely stunning and perfectly capture this momentous achievement. I now have these gorgeous images that I’ll treasure forever as a reminder of all the hard work that led to this moment. She has such a gift for understanding what her clients want and delivering beyond expectations.
I would highly recommend Kristen Hazelton Photography to anyone looking for a photographer who combines exceptional skill with genuine care for making your special moments shine. Thank you for giving me these perfect memories!
Interested in a fun senior photoshoot of your own? I’d love to help out! Look here for my senior portfolio, and reach out here to get the ball rolling for your own photoshoot!
Kristen Hazelton is an award-winning Chicago, IL and San Francisco Bay Area graduating senior, and family photographer. She also photographs in San Diego, 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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