ICONIC ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARKS IN CHICAGO: A PHOTOGRAPHER’S GUIDE BY KELLY MANTECK.
Architectural photographer and proud Chicagoan Kelly Manteck has long been enchanted by the city’s splendour. From capturing iconic landmarks to uncovering hidden gems, Manteck’s work delves into the rich history and contemporary beauty of Chicago’s built environment. She can often be found onboard the Chicago Architecture Foundation Center River Cruisewhere she eloquently shares her insights, enthusiasm and passion for the architectural marvels that define the city.
Capturing the Essence of Chicago’s Architecture
What drew you to Chicago as a city to focus your architectural photography on?
I grew up in a suburb of Chicago. I went to college in the city at Columbia College Chicago and studied photography. One of my friends and I would go downtown and explore during high school and early college and I became enamoured by the beauty of the city. I couldn’t stop looking up and I wanted to learn everything I could possibly learn about Chicago as well. I became so obsessed that I named my dog ‘Burnham’ after one of the city’s greatest architects. He has since passed and I now have a dog named ‘Sullivan’ after another iconic Chicago architect.
What are some of the most iconic architectural landmarks in Chicago that every photographer should capture?
I know that anyone that has ever heard of anything in Chicago will always say the Sears Tower (now Willis Tower) and it IS amazing, but I have some other gems I prefer: The Cultural Center (Shepley, Rutan & Coolidge), The Reliance Building (Burnham & Root / DH Burnham & Co), Carbide and Carbon Building (Burnham Brothers), 150 N. Riverside (Goettsch Partners), St. Regis Chicago (Studio Gang Architects), and the Aon Center (Edward Durell Stone).
Can you share any historical insights or interesting facts about these landmarks that might enhance a photographer’s perspective?
The Reliance Building is especially interesting because the ground floor was designed by John Wellborn Root of Burnham & Root, but he passed away during its construction while also working on the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. The construction was halted and Burnham entered into a new partnership with Charles Atwood who was radically different from Root. The new company was DH Burnham and Co and Atwood’s design was carried throughout. He was very forward-thinking and because of that, the new design included a tremendous amount of windows and was really a precursor to modernism in Chicago. This building is also heavily associated with the Preservation Movement in Chicago.
Beyond the well-known landmarks, what are some hidden architectural gems in Chicago?
I am incredibly drawn to Roosevelt University’s Vertical Campus especially juxtaposed with the landmarked Auditorium Theater. I love photographing both buildings, but together they are a beautiful exemplification of Chicago… old and new – and everything in between; existing in perfect harmony. The buildings of Chicago truly talk to one another and share their stories.
Are there any unique or unconventional Chicago structures that have particularly captivated you?
I love photographing at O’Hare Airport! I especially love Helmut Jahn’s underground passenger tunnel in Terminal 1. Another thing I love to photograph is the Trunnion Bascule Bridges of Chicago. They’re industrial, invented in Chicago, and they move! Super interesting, but photographing under them creates the most beautiful shadows – especially playing around with water and light.
What are the best locations in Chicago for capturing panoramic views of the city’s skyline?
I absolutely love exploring the skyline from Museum Campus. It is by far my favourite view of the city’s skyline.
Can you recommend specific Chicago vantage points or rooftops that offer exceptional photo opportunities?
I like to park in different parking garages at the tops and see what kind of views they get me. Also, even if you live in the city, be a tourist in your city and stay at random hotels. One of my favourite photos I’ve ever taken was from the Trump International Hotel and Tower (Skidmore, Owings & Merrill) looking over at the Wrigley Building (Graham, Anderson, Probst & White).
What are your top tips for photographing architecture in an urban environment like Chicago?
Don’t be afraid to look for unconventional vantage points or angles, find beauty in the ordinary, and walk around a building to get different views. Don’t stay in one place! Also, don’t be afraid that others will be looking at you or wondering what you’re doing. Take the risks and put yourself out there!
What do you find most rewarding about capturing Chicago’s architectural beauty?
You get to tell a story. I want people to understand why Chicago is as magical as it is and I love being able to share this, whether it’s through my photography or through being a volunteer docent with the Chicago Architecture Center giving river cruises and walking tours.
How does Chicago’s broader creative scene influence your work as a photographer?
With today’s focus on social media, being able to see what others are influenced by or meet people you may not have been able to otherwise meet is pretty fantastic. You’re able to take bigger risks for unexpected rewards. Overall though, I photograph what I photograph because I love it. As long as I am in love with what I am photographing, I will never stop being influenced and wanting to learn.
What are some of your favourite neighbourhoods in Chicago?
Lake Shore East is my favourite. Not only is the architecture fantastic, but it’s a city within a city. It’s steps away from The Riverwalk, but still offers the quiet and privacy of the suburbs. I love that!
Hidden Gems for Inspiration and Unwinding in Chicago
I like to hang out at the Chicago Architecture Center’s model of the city in the Chicago Gallery. There’s a great video of the history of the city. It even includes one of my photographs of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House.
Find out more about tours and fun things to do in Chicago here.
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