How to Photograph Chicago by Boat

Contributor

By Richard Burke
eHow Contributing Writer

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(12 Ratings)

Chicago Skyline

Chicago is one of America’s great cities. There is a lot to do in Chicago, but truly one of the best tourist attractions is an Architectural Boat Tour of the city. The Chicago River runs through the center of the city and both sides of the river are stacked with one impressive building after another. What makes the city so visually impressive is the truly eclectic collection of buildings from Art Deco to Post Modern styles; it is all along the river. There are a whole lot of river tours available, but Chicagoans say that the best is the one that leaves at the southeast side of the Michigan Avenue Bridge (see link in Resources below). I took this tour and found that the docent was not only knowledgeable about architecture, but also a great source for learning about the history of the city. So next time you're in the Windy City, take the tour and follow these simple tips to get some great pictures.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

A camera
A hat if it's sunny

Step 1

The Wrigley Building

There is not a better place to get a picture of the Wrigley Building, Chicago’s Art Deco landmark, than from a boat. The boat tour starts from this location, so you can stand up and take some time taking pictures before the tour begins. The tour goes up the river, then up the north fork and then back down the river all the way to Lake Michigan, before returning to the dock. Pay attention to the sun and shadows when you start because you will get multiple opportunities to take the same shot from different angles.
Step 2

The Chicago Flag

I learned that the Chicago flag has four stars: one for Fort Dearborn, one for the Great Fire, one for the World Exposition and one for the Century of Progress. The docent said that if they host the Olympic Games, they may add a fifth star. Flags are a great way to integrate some color into your architectural photography.
Step 3

Seagulls

If you have read my articles, you know I always say to get the picture to tell a story. As you travel down the river, look for people on the shore or birds to add some movement and dramatic tension to your photograph. The three different patterns are interesting, but the birds add some life to a static picture
Step 4

Reflections

Pay attention to the reflections. From your vantage point on the river you have a unique, unobstructed view of these monumental edifices. The reflections of the Art Deco architecture in the modern glass and steel structures provide unique views of the city. In addition, the reflections tell their own story of the evolving style of the city.
Step 5

Windows

The windows of the buildings can also be used to tell a unique story. You will need a telephoto lens to create images like these. Many of these structures are multiple-use structures with shopping, offices and residences in the same structure. One building is so large it has its own zip code, polling place and supermarket. Years ago, Chicago began to develop a River Walk along the river and most new construction is adapting to this requirement. In a few years, you will be able to walk the entire main branch of the Chicago River.

Comments

Pixie1976 said

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on 11/2/2008 Oh I love this.

Gracie1402 said

on 10/25/2008 your articles are so valueable! Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us!

RomiH said

on 10/20/2008 I went on the Chicago boat tour last summer! These tips are fabulous! Thanks for sharing your professional knowledge!!! 5*

klnygaard said

on 10/20/2008 great info--one of my favorite pictures is one i took from a boat of the lighthouse--i live in Chicago and agree that there are so many wonderful pics to take