One of the most commonly asked questions I get is where do you recommend we go for our portrait session. To which I always ask, what are you hoping for in your photos? Do you want a more nature-inspired background or would you rather have a more urban downtown feel? Most importantly, do you have any special places that you love? I will always choose locations with meaning to you over anything else. If however, you are stuck, here are a few of my favorite nearby spots where I always love to shoot.

 

 

SANDS E. MAIN STREET PRAIRIE | cary, illinois

1118 E Main St, Cary, IL 60013

 

 

Key Features:

  • Free parking lot
  • Rustic white barns
  • Wide open fields/meadows
  • Dog friendly
  • Looks great in every season

 

 

I was recently introduced to this location last fall when one of my family sessions requested portraits here and it quickly became one of my FAVORITES!! Sands E. Main Street Prairie is a quiet, serene location near the heart of downtown Cary that offers a gorgeous rustic meadow backdrop with chippy white barns, tall grasses, and wide open spaces. Make it a date night! Being so close to downtown, you'll have the perfect excuse to head into town after our session and grab a burger at Tracks.

 

Romantic couple embracing in tall golden grass field wearing red and plaid.
A large family group poses together in casual clothing against a rustic barn backdrop.
A couple holds hands while walking through a golden field of tall grass at sunset.
A small child stands in casual wear near a rustic barn and tall grass.

 

moraine hills state park | Mchenry, Illinois

1510 S River Rd, McHenry, IL 60051

 

 

Key Features:

  • Free parking lots
  • Multiple options for different backgrounds
  • Lake views
  • Dog friendly
  • Looks great in every season
  • Outdoor bathrooms to change in
  • Playgrounds to burn off extra energy in your littles

 

 

Moraine Hills will ALWAYS hold a special place in my heart. I have been walking the trails there since I was a little girl!! I love the variety of locations Moraine Hills Offers. From trails to fields, and even lake views, Moraine Hills has it all!

 

A parent lifts a small child playfully in the air in a sunlit garden setting.
A child in a pink plaid dress smiles in autumn leaves with adults blurred in background.
A family group poses beneath a vibrant red maple tree in fall.
A couple enjoys a playful moment together in a grassy field at sunset.

 

Fel-Pro RRR Conservation Area | Cary, Illinois

1520 Crystal Lake Rd, Cary, IL 60013

 

 

Key Features:

  • Free parking lots
  • Options for different backgrounds
  • River views with a bridge
  • Dog friendly
  • Looks great in every season
  • Outdoor bathrooms to change in

 

 

I love the variety Fel-Pro RRR, (or "Triple R" as the locals call it) has to offer. There are two sections to Triple R - one a disk golf course, the other walking paths and open fields. It truly has a little something for everyone!

 

Sweet family moment captured in springtime meadow with embraces and smiles.
Tender embrace shared between two people in a lush green meadow.
Two young children standing by a pond looking at something in the water.

 

I hope this post has been helpful to you. We have such beautiful locations here in McHenry County that I would love to explore with you. If there are others that are favorites of yours let me know!!

 

Decorative signature in teal blue text reading XOXO, Cassie against white background.