Balcony Sunflower, Hookah With Friends And Sunset Wishes: IL In Photos

ILLINOIS — Take a look through this set of images from across Illinois. We're seeing many great opportunities for readers to get some memorable photographs throughout the state this summer.

To have your photo potentially featured on Patch, send it to Eric DeGrechie at eric.degrechie@patch.com. We just ask that you make sure the photo you send is one you have taken personally, and allow Patch to use on all platforms. Include your name for credit and a brief description of the photo, including where it was taken. Also, please remove any watermarks. Thank you!

Kirsten Honiotes, of Joliet, tell us this beautiful sunflower cropped up on her balcony from birdseed.

Nina Kavin said she met these men while walking back to her car after a picnic with friends at the Lee Street Beach on a recent evening in Evanston. "They seemed to be enjoying their watermelon and hookah, and I commented on the gorgeous evening and that they looked happy," Kavin said. "They invited me to sit, and I shared some watermelon and a puff of the hookah. It was a beautiful end to a gorgeous summer night in Evanston."

Kevin Cody, of Lemont, tells us he doesn't typically see ruby-throated hummingbirds in his garden, so he was pleased to be able to photograph this one.

LAST WEEK: Bird Kayaking, The Bluest Of Skies And Rare Flowers Radiate — IL In Photos

Lynn Wesley, of Tinley Park, captured this amazing sunset.

Jeremy Almaguer, of Palos Hills, sent in this photo he took of a squirrel on his patio.

Steve Rifkin, of Northbrook, tells us his garden is specifically planted to attract butterflies and native bird species, as evidenced by this awesome shot he got recently.

Anthony Sus, 14, took this photograph in Amboy while sitting in the backyard.