Why You’ll Love Lighthouse Beach
Located along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Evanston, Lighthouse Beach offers a beautiful mix of sandy beach, lake views, natural grasses, mature trees, and historic charm. The soft colors of the sand and water create a light, relaxed setting that is especially beautiful for summer family photos, senior portraits, maternity sessions, and couples.
With both the beach and surrounding greenery nearby, Lighthouse Beach gives us plenty of variety without having to travel between multiple locations.
What Makes Lighthouse Beach So Special
- Beautiful Lake Michigan views
- Soft sandy shoreline
- Natural beach grasses and greenery
- The historic Grosse Point Lighthouse nearby
- Open sky and beautiful evening light
- Neutral colors that work well with almost any wardrobe
- A relaxed, coastal feel without leaving Chicagoland
- A mix of beach, trees, paths, and historic surroundings
Best Sessions for Lighthouse Beach
Family Sessions
Senior Portraits
Maternity Sessions
Couples & Engagement Photos
Best Time of Year
Lighthouse Beach is especially beautiful from Summer through early fall.
Summer
- Warm sand and beautiful Lake Michigan views
- Soft evening light
- Natural beach grasses
- A classic summer setting for family portraits
- Beach entry fees
Fall
- Quieter shoreline
- Warm golden evening light
- Cooler, more comfortable temperatures
- A beautiful combination of beach and early fall color
- No beach entry fees after Labor Day!
Session Tips
- Evening sessions provide the softest and most flattering light.
- Weekday evenings are usually easier than busy summer weekends.
- Neutral, soft blue, cream, tan, muted green, and dusty pastel clothing photographs beautifully here.
- Plan to go barefoot for these photos.
- Bring a towel for sandy or wet feet after the session.
- Lake Michigan can be cooler and windier than inland locations, so bringing a light layer is a good idea.
- Hair may move in the lake breeze, which adds to the relaxed beach look but is something to consider when choosing hairstyles.
Things to Know
Lighthouse Beach is a public Evanston swimming beach, and beach admission requirements may apply during the summer season.
Parking near the beach can be limited, especially during warm summer evenings and weekends. Plan to arrive early so you have enough time to park, gather your belongings, and walk to our meeting spot without feeling rushed.
The beach includes sand and uneven surfaces, so strollers and wagons may become difficult to pull once we reach the shoreline. Bringing only the essentials will make it easier to move between photo areas.