Chicago Photography Guide Part 4 - Alt Chicago

Written and Photographed by Mike Lindle

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Heading out to Chicago but don’t know where to shoot? If you’ve made it this far through the series, you must be pretty curious what other photogenic nooks and crannies Chicago has to offer. Read on, and you won’t be disappointed! This is part 4 of the 4 part series on the best photography locations in Chicago:

Part 1 - The Classics

Part 2 - Waterways & Boats

Part 3 - CDOT Trains & Parking Lots

Part 4 - Alt Chicago

I’ve also included a few tips, the gear I used, and how to get to each location through Google Maps!

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Spiral Staircase at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

Established in 1967, this Contemporary Art Museum is one of the world’s largest. While it’s highly recommended that you spend time in the museum and actually enjoy the modernist sculptures and installments, photographers flock here to photograph the building’s staircase. Unsurprisingly, it’s well worth the trip out!

• Pro Tip - Are you an Illinois resident? If so, admission is free on Tuesdays!

• Cost - $15

• Camera - Nikon D750

• Lens - Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art

• Location
  

West Calhoun Alleyway

A nearly hidden Alley in The Chicago Loop, come check this place out during early blue hour to catch the perfect lighting when staring straight up at the sky cracks.

• Pro Tip - You’'ll definitely want a wide angle lens!

• Cost - Free

• Camera - Nikon D750

• Lens - Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art

• Location

The Northern Trust Green Pipe Lookup

Another quirky view in The Chicago Loop, the historic Northern Trust Building is veneered with Blue paneling and green pipes running up the side of it. Push your wide angle right against the pipe and stare straight up to enjoy a unique view in the heart of a well-photographed city.

• Pro Tip - This photo was taken from the NW Corner!

• Cost - Free

• Camera - Nikon D750

• Lens - Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G

• Location

Alleyway Near Double Q-Loop

Next to the Double Q-Loop (immediately south), you’ll find an unassuming alleyway. Head inside and look up to be treated to a slightly symmetrical alley view.

• Pro Tip - Wait for a foggy or cloudy day to capture more drama in the sky.

• Cost - Free

• Camera - Nikon D750

• Lens - Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G

• Location

James R. Thompson Center Interior

Constructed and opened in 1985 the James R. Thompson Center houses offices of the Illinois State Government. It has a public foodcourt inside, though the building follows normal business hours, closing M-F at 6pm. Unfortunately, the building is closed on the weekends.

• Pro Tip - If you work full time, go early in the morning, they open at 6:30am!

• Cost - Free

• Camera - Nikon D750

• Lens - Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art

• Location

John Hancock Center Alleyway Lookup

Slip in the alley directly east of the John Hancock Center for this astonishing lookup of the tower sandwiched between the surrounding buildings.

• Pro Tip - If you’re here at night, time your shot with a passing car to reveal a stunning light trail!

• Cost - Free

• Camera - Nikon D750

• Lens - Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art

• Location

Calder's Flamingo

Unveiled in 1974, this avante-garde sculpture was designed by Alexander Calder. Commissioned by the United States General Services Administration, it currently sits outside the Kluczynski Federal Building in Federal Plaza.

• Pro Tip - The statue photographs well at blue hour!

• Cost - Free

• Camera - Nikon D750

• Lens - Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art

• Location

Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo

Popularized skyline view of Chicago over a small pond under the abstract gateway. This area also offers a safe haven for local wildlife such as fish, turtles, and birds.

• Pro Tip - Beat the crowds by either arriving for sunrise,off-peak hours, or cold evenings!

• Cost - Free

• Camera - Nikon D750

• Lens - Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art

• Location

Chase Tower Lookup

Stand at the base of Chase tower at the intersection of your choice to be stunned at the curving architecture at the base of the skyscraper.

• Pro Tip - Bring a wide lens!

• Cost - Free

• Camera - Nikon D750

• Lens - Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art

• Location

ORD Terminal B - C Pedestrian Transfer

This Pedestrian Tunnel connects United Terminals B and C. Since the HQ of United is in Chicago, I suppose they rolled out the red carpet for travelers passing through their biggest operating airline hub.

• Pro Tip - Arrive to the airport early to allocate yourself enough time to photograph this colorful location!

• Cost - Cost of airplane ticket.

• Camera - Nikon D750

• Lens - Sigma 14mm f/1.8 Art

• Location

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Next Time:

Milwaukee Art Museum (Day Trip from Chicago)

• Location

Bahá’i House of Worship (Day Trip from Chicago)

• Location

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