A Chicago Wedding Photographer Who Tells Your Whole Story
Your Chicago wedding photographer should feel like a calm, trusted presence on one of the biggest days of your life. I am Adri De La Cruz, a Chicago wedding photographer based in Forest Park, IL specializing in hybrid documentary and lifestyle wedding photography. The best wedding photos are the ones that make you feel like you are right back in that moment not posed, not stiff, just real. Fully bilingual in English and Spanish, porque tu historia merece ser contada en tu idioma.
What Makes Me Different as a Chicago Wedding Photographer
There are a lot of wedding photographers in Chicago. Here is why couples choose me:
Documentary Style
I do not direct you into poses and tell you to smile. Instead I move quietly through your day, watching for the real moments — the nervous laugh before you walk down the aisle, the way your grandmother holds your hand, the first time you see your reception space. My camera is always ready but never intrusive.
Bilingual English & Spanish I am fully bilingual and love working with Spanish-speaking families. From your first inquiry to your final gallery delivery, we can communicate entirely in Spanish if that feels more comfortable. Your family deserves to feel seen and included on your wedding day.
Western Suburbs Specialist While I photograph weddings across the entire Chicago metro, I have a deep love for the western suburbs. From intimate backyard ceremonies in Downers Grove to elegant ballroom receptions in Hinsdale, I know these communities and their hidden gems better than anyone.
Limited Bookings I only take a small number of weddings each year. This means every couple gets my full attention, energy, and heart not a rushed photographer juggling back to back weekends.
Chicago Wedding Venues I Love
Chicago and the surrounding suburbs offer some of the most beautiful and diverse wedding venues in the Midwest. I have had the privilege of photographing weddings at venues and locations across the city and suburbs including:
- The West Loop — industrial chic lofts and rooftop ceremonies
- Lincoln Park — lush greenery and stunning lakefront backdrops
- The Art Institute of Chicago — timeless elegance in the heart of the city
- Millennium Park — iconic Chicago skyline and architecture
- Oak Park — charming historic venues with gorgeous natural light
- Hinsdale & Burr Ridge — elegant estate and country club weddings
- Naperville — beautiful riverfront ceremonies and reception spaces
- Downers Grove & Wheaton — intimate community venues full of character
- Elmhurst & Glen Ellyn — hidden gem locations in the heart of the western suburbs
Already have a venue in mind? I would love to hear about it. For venue inspiration check out the Knot’s Chicago Wedding Guide and WeddingWire’s Chicago Wedding Planning Guide.
Why Couples Choose Hybrid Wedding Photography
Most couples come to me saying the same thing they want beautiful photos but they do not want to spend their wedding day feeling like they are on a photo shoot. The hybrid approach is the answer to that.
Hybrid wedding photography is a soulful blend of documentary and lifestyle photography the best of both worlds. About 80% of your gallery will be completely unscripted the ceremony, the toasts, the dancing, all of it captured exactly as it happens. The remaining 20% — usually during your portrait session is where gentle lifestyle direction comes in.
That direction is never stiff or posed. Instead of telling you to “look at the camera and smile,” I might ask you to share a quiet whisper or walk toward the light. That small spark of direction leads to a genuine reaction you look your best while the moment stays completely real.
The result is a gallery that tells the full story of your day the perfectly imperfect candid moments alongside the beautiful portraits your family will frame and keep forever. No stiff smiles. No awkward hands. Just you, exactly as you were on one of the best days of your life.
Want to learn more about how the hybrid approach works in practice? Read my full guide: Is Hybrid Wedding Photography Right for You?
Investment
Most couples invest between $3,500 and $5,500 for their full wedding day story. Elopements start at $2,500 (travel not included). I am currently booking 2026 and 2027 weddings.
Because I only take a limited number of weddings each year my calendar fills up fast. Head to my investment page for full pricing details.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should we book?
As soon as you have a date! Summer and fall dates especially book 12–18 months in advance. If you have a 2026 or 2027 date in mind reach out today.
Do you photograph both the ceremony and reception?
Yes full day coverage is my specialty. I want to capture everything from getting ready to the last dance.
Do you travel for destination weddings?
Absolutely. I am based in Forest Park, IL and available for travel throughout the Midwest and beyond. Travel fees apply for locations outside the Chicago metro area.
Do you speak Spanish?
Yes! I am fully bilingual and happy to work entirely in Spanish from inquiry to gallery delivery.
What is your backup plan?
I have a trusted network of Chicago photographers I can call on in an emergency. Your wedding day will always be covered.
Do you offer engagement sessions?
Yes and I strongly recommend them! They are included in select packages or can be added on separately.
How much does a Chicago wedding photographer cost?
Wedding photography at The Adri Photo Co. starts at $1,050 for courthouse and micro ceremonies. Elopements and intimate weddings start at $2,500 for 6 hours. Full wedding coverage with a second shooter starts at $5,000. Every package includes a full gallery of edited images delivered through Pixieset.
Do you photograph LGBTQ+ weddings?
Absolutely all couples are welcome here, full stop. The Adri Photo Co. is proudly LGBTQ+ inclusive and has photographed couples of all kinds across Chicago and beyond.
Ready to Book Your Chicago Wedding Photographer?
I would love to be part of your love story. Whether you are planning an intimate elopement in the western suburbs or a grand celebration in the heart of Chicago — I am here for all of it.
👉 Contact me here and let’s start planning your perfect day