2019 Magic in Chicago Testimonials:

“Kristen’s Magic in Chicago retreat was my first women’s photography retreat and it was an amazing experience. Not only did we shoot many of the iconic Chicago locations, Kristen encouraged us to push past our comfort zones - from trying creative techniques such as panning to learning new editing skills including luminosity masks. Kristen understands landscape photography extensively and is deeply connected to the locations where she hosts her retreats. She seeks to understand where you are in your journey and meet you where you need the most guidance. I have so many “portfolio worthy” images from this weekend and will be printing and framing several of them. But I especially loved meeting and connecting with like minded women in the smaller and more intimate retreat setting. I absolutely loved this weekend in Chicago and will attend many more of Kristen’s retreats in the future.” - Joanne Markey

“Kristen’s Magic in Chicago retreat was such an amazing experience! Her love of teaching photography really shines through in her hometown, evident in the thoughtful planning of locations and shooting opportunities. I live in Chicago, but never take a dedicated weekend to travel to all the iconic locations and photograph; this retreat gave me the opportunity to come home with some amazing images that I’m proud of!

As with all of Kristen’s retreats and workshops, however, the most impactful part of the whole trip was the relationships I made with the women during our days together. We had such a wonderful time together, laughing, shooting, and getting up way too early. I walked away with so many life-long friends that I can’t wait to shoot with again!” - Megan Arndt

“Late August was the perfect time for the Magic in Chicago retreat. The weather was beautiful and warm but not too warm. We started off the retreat with a dinner in Kristens room where we all introduced ourselves and got to know each other. Then we headed out for sunset shooting at Buckingham Fountain followed by playing with light trails along the Magic Mile. Next morning was sunrise on the water and then some editing discussions. We shot the city skyline for sunset and then the harbor the next morning for sunrise. Kristen planned a nice deep dish Chicago pizza dinner too! She knows the area so well and was incredibly helpful with showing us different shooting techniques like long exposure and shutter painting. I fell in love with Chicago and can’t wait to go back one day! If you want to capture the essence of Chicago, this retreat is for you!!” - Kathy Linford

 "Living in the western burbs of Chicago, I absolutely love Chicago and have always wanted to spend a weekend shooting in this great city! I was so excited to be a part of Kristen's Magic in Chicago retreat and to not have to worry about choosing locations, permits, where to stay or eat at, etc. Kristen knows Chicago well and it shows. I wanted to show up, shoot alongside like-minded photographers, and not worry about details. If you have the opportunity to attend one of Kristen's workshops, do it. You'll walk away with new ideas, new friends, and some great images to treasure!" - Laura Gampfer