Photographing the Chicago L tracks is a right of passage for Chicagoans. Join us for a Chicago L train photography workshop covering the trains, stations, and surrounding architecture in the Chicago Loop. The historical Chicago L train is 125 years old and is, to this day, the only elevated train that continues to run downtown in the U.S. We will only do this workshop with a very small group of 3 to make navigating the trains easier and to ensure plenty of one-on-one instruction.
To start the day, we’ll find some elevated positions to get a unique viewpoint of the tracks.
Then we’ll jump on the train and make our way around the loop. Focusing on finding interesting light and shadows, we’ll try and catch the trains making their way around the downtown loop.
Keeping our eyes out for street photography opportunities, we’ll visit some of the more unique stations in the Loop.
Chicago is home to all kinds of architecture and the viewpoints from the L provide a unique opportunity to photograph the buildings.
After we’ve traveled around the loop, we’ll head to the underground trains for another perspective on Chicago’s transportation system.
Chicago L Train Photography Workshop Details
The day will begin at 10:00am, and finish up around 3:00pm, so you’ll definitely get a full day’s worth of fun and photography. All levels of photographers are welcome, as are native Chicagoans and visitors alike. I’d like to keep this Chicago L photography workshop fun and flexible because when you’re in the Windy City, you never know what you’ll see!
GEAR:
Bring your camera, lenses (a 24-70mm is a great place to start), and comfortable walking shoes as we do a lot of walking, at least a couple miles. You will also want sunscreen, water, a hat if it’s sunny, and appropriate warm gear if it’s forecast to be cold or windy. Down by the lake the temperature can be cooler than other areas of the city, so you’ll want to come prepared. Feel free to contact us with any questions on what to bring. We do not recommend a tripod as they are not allowed on the train platforms.
We will email you the week before to the workshop to give final details and check in to give updates on the weather. We go ahead with the workshop in any weather so long as you or your gear are not in danger. But, if we do have to cancel due to dangerous weather or any circumstances out of our control, we will first attempt to reschedule with you. If rescheduling is not possible, we will offer a refund. If you need to cancel, you must do so 14 days ahead of time or forfeit your registration fee.