Find Skate spaces for rent in Chicago, IL

About Chicago

As one of the most populous Midwestern cities, Chicago rests upon the shores of Lake Michigan. Its winters are notoriously chilly, and summers sizzle, yet tourists flock year-round to explore world-renowned museums and theaters or root for local sports teams.

Production companies find great success in Chicago due to its large footprint and relevant status as a financial powerhouse with immense cultural importance. It’s the reason why photographers and content creators are increasingly exploring the city’s skate spaces as filming locations for their projects.

Skateboarding has been a part of Chicago’s culture for decades, and many skate spaces across the city offer a safe and welcoming environment for professionals and novices alike to hone their craft. There is a suitable location for every kind of skater in the Windy City, from indoor and outdoor skateparks to DIY spots. All these venues also double as striking backdrops for photoshoots and video projects.

Skate Photo Shoot Options in Chicago

• Videography and Photography
  To capture extraordinary skateboarding footage or stills in Chicago, connect with a local photographer or videographer. Chicago’sproduction companies offer the services of professional videographers and photographers as well as gear ranging from cameras and lenses to audio gear, to get the job done.
  
  
• Set Designers
  Are you looking for a pro to construct custom skateboard obstacle courses or ramps Chicago is home to several talented set designers who can fabricate temporary and permanent setups that are secure and thrilling.
  
  
• Special Equipment
  To capture skateboarders in action from an interesting angle, special equipment like ramps and rails would be of great help. Lists of film equipment rental companies in Chicago offer such gear along with set-up and teardown services.

Skate Photo Shoot Vendors in Chicago

• Shot Time Productions
  Back in 2011, a revolutionary video production agency was formed with the sole purpose of helping businesses in Chicago and LA build their brand while also inspiring audiences to engage with unique products. With an impressive portfolio that includes countless high-quality videos for universities, restaurants, and independent firms alike, Shot Time Productions has helped many clients reach various objectives such as recruiting top talent or running successful marketing campaigns.
  
  
• Chicago Props
  Chicago Props carry a wide selection of props and accessories to help you style the perfect event or photoshoot set. Their warehouse has a Leaning Tower of Pisa, boxwood walls, furniture, life-size topiary squirrels, and corrugated bars to help deck out your themed stage or set.
  
  
• Jill Norton Photography
  For over nineteen years, Jill Norton has been captivated by the art of photography. She loves exploring creative ways to document her surroundings and was inspired to open a natural light studio in 2005 after years of operating from home. Although she thoroughly enjoys working at the studio, Jill finds that being on-location with her subjects yields more intimate photographs - something she can't replicate indoors.

Pros and Cons of Skate Spaces in Chicago

With its proximity to Lake Michigan and exciting backdrops, the city of Chicago provides an ideal location for skate photoshoots. However, there are a few things you should take into account.

Advantages

• Chi-Town is renowned for its beautiful skyline and architecture. You’ll be spoilt for choice when searching for a scenic skate space that offers stunning views of the surroundings for your photo shoot.
  
  
• The Chicago O'Hare International Airport connects the city to diverse metropolises across the globe. It makes The Second City a wonderful place to host a photo shoot with a crew and talent coming from across the nation.
  
  
• With 77 distinctly colorful neighborhoods, you’ll have an extensive selection of skate spaces to explore for your project.

Disadvantages

• Getting stuck in traffic is part and parcel of the Chicago experience, but it can prove to be a costly setback when organizing a time-bound photo shoot.
  
  
• It’s important to get a skate location that comes with ample parking because it is another challenge the city faces.
  
  
• The cold season is marked by windy and snowy weather which doesn’t favor outdoor functions, and it is best to look for indoor skate spaces at that time.

Tips on How to Organize Photo Shoot at Skate Spaces in Chicago

If you’re planning a photo shoot at a skate space in Chicago, there are plenty of great spots to choose from. Here are some tips for organizing a successful photoshoot in the city:

• Research Different Locations: Look into different venues around town to get an idea of the locations that work best for what you have in mind.
  
  
• Select the Right Spot: Once you've found a few potential locations, pick the one that works best for your concept and has the facilities needed for your shoot.
  
  
• Assemble Your Gear: Make sure to bring all the necessary equipment, such as lights, cameras, lenses, tripods, and protective gear, like helmets and pads, for safety purposes.
  
  
• Get Creative: Take advantage of unique features at the location, such as graffiti walls or ramps, to add more interest to your shots and create dynamic images.
  
  
• Have Fun!: Above all else, don't forget to enjoy yourself during the photo shoot. Bring some music, hang out with friends between takes, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different angles and poses, that’s part of what makes action photography so unique!

Famous Locations in Chicago

• The Concrete Beach
  The Concrete Beach, better known as Oak Street Beach, is a reminder that, even amid a bustling city, nature will always find a way to assert itself. The Beach is a manufactured structure created from concrete and stone but has been reclaimed by nature. Grass and vines have taken root in the cracks and crevices, forming a verdant oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle. Wildflowers bloom in the sun, attracting bees and butterflies. The birds build their nests in the trees, and the squirrels dart back and forth along the branches.
  
  
• North Lawndale
  The North Lawndale Youth Farm was constructed in 2005 and is located between the Ogden Avenue and El tracks at the beginning of Route 66. The farm covers a quarter acre of land that NeighborSpace, an urban land trust, owns and provides water to. The Youth Farm offers programs and services for youth in the area, including a summer camp, after-school programming, and job training. The farm also operates a CSA program, providing fresh produce to community members. In addition to its work with youth, the farm also offers fresh produce to members of the local community through its CSA program.
  
  
• The Navy Pier
  Opened in 1916, The Navy Pier is a former shipping facility that has evolved into a tourist attraction. 50 acres of parks, restaurants, shops, gardens, and other attractions collectively make up the amusement area. The highlight is the Pier’s 150-foot Ferris wheel which has been featured in films like Divergent. Some of the other attractions found within the stretch include the Chicago Children’s Museum, Crystal Gardens, and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.