Drew Pertl Photography

06/03/2026

I had the opportunity to spend some time inside the Old Illinois State Capitol while in Springfield for an Illinois State Bar Association event, and I was fortunate to receive permission to photograph areas of the building that are rarely experienced through a camera lens—including the historic Senate Chambers, the Law Library, and many of the beautifully preserved interior spaces.

Walking these halls is a reminder of just how much Illinois history unfolded within these walls. The Old State Capitol served as the seat of Illinois government from 1839 to 1876 and played a central role in the state's political development. Among those who served here was Abraham Lincoln, who represented Sangamon County in the Illinois House of Representatives from 1834 to 1842 and later delivered his famous "House Divided" speech in the building.

From the grand staircases and towering columns to the worn law books and legislative chambers, every room tells a story. As both a photographer and someone who appreciates Illinois history, it was an honor to document this remarkable landmark and preserve a small piece of its legacy through my lens.

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Visit Springfield

06/01/2026

I'm incredibly honored to share that I was voted One of the Best Photographers in Kane County in the 2026 Kane County Chronicle Readers' Choice Awards!

This marks the third consecutive year that I've received this recognition, and I'm truly grateful to everyone who took the time to vote. Being recognized alongside so many talented photographers throughout Kane County is both humbling and inspiring.

Photography has given me the opportunity to showcase the places, people, and moments that make the Fox Valley such a special place to call home. Whether I'm photographing from the ground or from above, it's a privilege to capture the beauty of our communities and share it with others.

Thank you for your continued support, encouragement, and appreciation of my work. I'm honored to tell the story of the Fox Valley through my lens and look forward to many more adventures ahead.

05/28/2026

The historic Congress Hotel glowing beneath the lights of downtown Chicago as the city transitions from day to night.

Opened in 1893 to welcome visitors to the World’s Columbian Exposition, the Congress has remained one of Chicago’s most recognizable landmarks for more than a century.

There’s something timeless about the mix of historic architecture, neon lights, and the energy of the streets below.

05/27/2026

Golden hour along Campton Hills Road in Campton Hills, Illinois.

Moments like this are a reminder that some of the most beautiful scenes in the Fox Valley aren’t found in big cities or tourist destinations, they’re right here along the quiet backroads we drive every day. The light, the farmland, and this incredible tree all came together for just a few fleeting minutes before sunset.

As a lifelong resident, I’m always grateful for opportunities to capture the beauty of our community and preserve these landscapes through photography.

05/21/2026

I’m excited to share that I’ll be exhibiting my photography this weekend at the St. Charles Fine Art Show at Booth #115!

I’ll have hundreds of prints available featuring some of the very best scenes from across the Fox Valley — including St. Charles, Geneva, Batavia, Elgin, Aurora, the Fox River, local landmarks, sunsets, architecture, and more. Whether you’re looking for a small print for your home or a large statement piece for your office, all of the images featured in this post will be available in multiple sizes at very affordable prices.

If you’ve followed my photography over the years, I’d truly love the chance to meet you in person and help you find a piece that celebrates the places we all love.

Stop by Booth #115 and say hello this weekend in downtown St. Charles!

Travel St. Charles, IL
St. Charles Arts Council
City of St. Charles, Illinois Government

05/20/2026

Tucked along the banks of the Fox River, the Fabyan Park Lighthouse is one of the most unique and unexpected landmarks in the Fox Valley. Built in the early 1900s as part of Colonel George Fabyan’s sprawling estate, this charming structure once served as a beacon guiding boats along the river after dark.

Today, it remains a hidden gem in Geneva, Illinois — especially beautiful as the evening light reflects across the water and the surrounding trees begin to glow with color. Moments like this are a reminder of how much history and beauty can still be found right here close to home.

City of Geneva, Municipality
Geneva, IL - Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
Geneva History Museum
Forest Preserve District of Kane County
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05/14/2026

There’s something special about visiting an Illinois courthouse at golden hour, especially one as architecturally striking as the Pike County Courthouse in Pittsfield, Illinois.

Constructed in 1894, the Pike County Courthouse was designed by architect Henry Elliott and is one of the most distinctive historic courthouses in Illinois. Built from locally quarried stone, the building blends Richardsonian Romanesque architecture with Victorian influences, featuring dramatic arches, intricate stonework, steep gables, and a towering central clock tower that dominates the town square.

What makes this courthouse especially unique is its octagonal central design and the way it anchors the surrounding community visually from every direction. From the air, you can truly appreciate how the courthouse was intentionally designed to serve as the heart of Pittsfield, both geographically and symbolically.

Photographing courthouses like this continues to deepen my appreciation for the craftsmanship, civic pride, and architectural ambition that shaped communities throughout Illinois more than a century ago.

These images are part of my ongoing project documenting the historic courthouses across the state of Illinois preserving and showcasing the incredible architectural legacy found in communities both large and small.

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Illinois State Bar Association

05/11/2026

A photography commission I completed for the City of St. Charles last summer.

During National Police Week (May 10–16), we honor the courage, sacrifice and service of the local men and women who protect St. Charles communities around the clock, 365 days a year. Thank you to our law enforcement officers for your commitment, professionalism and dedication to keeping our neighborhoods safe. Drop a 💙 in the comments as a thank you to the St. Charles Police Department!

05/02/2026

Stop by Elements Massage to checkout some local art featuring the best of Geneva and the Fox valley. Great prices and something for everyone.

04/29/2026

Springtime on Third Street in Geneva 🌷

From the colorful tulips and historic architecture to the glowing storefronts after sunset, Third Street looks absolutely beautiful both during the day and at night. It’s one of those places that perfectly captures the charm and character that makes Geneva so special.

Whether you’re out for a morning walk, shopping local, or enjoying an evening downtown, there’s always something picturesque around every corner.

📍Third Street — Geneva, Illinois
📸 Drew Pertl Photography



City of Geneva, Municipality
Geneva, IL - Chamber of Commerce & Tourism
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