CHICAGO
PHOTOGRAPHY
GROUP

Upcoming Events

Using Light & Shadow in Photography

Using Light & Shadow in Photography

Saturday 21 June
Montrose Beach - 2pm - 2 Hours
Caitlin KellyThompson
Light and shadow photography is a type of photography that focuses on capturing the interplay between light and shadow in a particular scene. This style of photography often produces dramatic and compelling images that can evoke strong emotions in the viewer.

Harsh light and the contrast between light and shadow can provide some interesting photo
opportunities, as well as some challenges!

In this meetup, we will be looking at how you can use your camera's settings to nail the exposure.
book now
$49      
Shooting on Manual Mode Meetup

Shooting on Manual Mode Meetup

Sunday 22 June
E Randolph St, Chicago - 12pm - 2 Hours
Caitlin KellyThompson
This class is for anyone looking to switch their camera mode from Auto to Manual and learn how to shoot using the Manual Mode. The goal is to help everyone become more confident when using their camera settings. We will touch on essential camera functions and the exposure triangle Shutter Speed, Aperture, and ISO.
book now
$49      
Headshot Photography Meetup

Headshot Photography Meetup

Saturday 28 June
N Humboldt Dr, Chicago - 12:30pm - 2 Hours
Caitlin KellyThompson
A headshot is a tightly framed face shot, typically from the shoulders up. The goal of your headshot is to clearly & creatively showcase your client's professionalism, personality, and brand. As a class, we will focus on creating headshots from the chest up with good lighting on your model's face.
book now
$47      

Beginning Photography Class

Beginning Photography Class

Saturday 05 July
N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago - 12pm - 3 Hours
Caitlin KellyThompson
This class will cover the basics of photography for two hours, followed by an hour of practical street photography in Milwaukee.
book now
$98       5 places left
WWC (Walk with Camera)

WWC (Walk with Camera)

Saturday 12 July
E Randolph St, Chicago - 12pm - 2 Hours
Caitlin KellyThompson
A fun and relaxed walk with our cameras covering a variety aspects of photography from street, landscape, architecture, seascape and abstract.
book now
$49      
Golden Hour Photography

Golden Hour Photography

Saturday 26 July
Navy Pier - 7:30pm - 2 Hours
Caitlin KellyThompson
Learn to capture the magic of golden hour, focusing on cityscapes and reflections as the sun sets over Lake Michigan.
book now
$49      

Nearby Photography Groups

Beginner's Photography Class

Beginner's Photography Class

Sunday 22 June
Knoch Knolls Rd - 2pm - 3 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
Got a new camera ? Ready to go on your vacation soon? Let's take this opportunity to learn how to use your camera outside of auto mode. Become more confident with your photography as you navigate your camera to understand the photography elements. This small sized class is perfect for collaboration and feedback.

Join us as we discuss the exposure triangle to help you learn about shutter speed, aperture, ISO and how these settings affect your exposure.

We will put this knowledge to practice with the guidance of a professional photographer.

It will be a fun class of limited size with direct feedback from your host.
book now
$92       5 places left
Summer Landscape Season 2

Summer Landscape Season 2

Saturday 28 June
Herrick Lake Forest Preserve - 3pm - 3 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
Let's venture back to Herrick Lake for the summer solstice. Capturing details large and small. With a changed landscape in warmer weather we will have a longer session to walk around the lake and seek out our photo opportunities. Capture stunning bokeh with shallow depth of field or view distant landscapes and reflections on the pond.
book now
$92       5 places left
Street Photography Meetup

Street Photography Meetup

Sunday 06 July
Off Raymond Drive - 1pm - 2 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
People, cafes, vendors, street merchants, buskers, historic buildings, art installations and much more. The power of observation underpins the art of great street photography. Learning to "see" interesting detail is a practised skill and we introduce you to easy methods that will open your photographer's eye and expose you to a world that is alive with detail. The most rewarding part of the class is learning how to approach interesting people and have them willingly pose for you.

We will also go over settings, focusing techniques and lens choices common to street photography to help us capture those random chance encounters.
book now
$49      

Bird and Nature Photography

Bird and Nature Photography

Saturday 12 July
Located on Renwick Road .5 mile east of Route 30 - 12pm - 3 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
Explore the Lake preserve and learn how to catch those great bird life images of herons, eagles and more. During the event, we will be exploring the beautiful habitats in the area and photographing the variety of bird species that reside there. Whether you are new to bird photography or a seasoned pro, this event is a great opportunity to hone your skills, learn from others, and enjoy the company of like-minded individuals who share your passion for bird photography as well as the surrounding nature.
book now
$98      
Macro Photography Meetup

Macro Photography Meetup

Sunday 27 July
Plainfield-Naperville Rd - 2pm - 2 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
Let's get closer to our little subjects in nature, whether it's a bug, wild flowers, leaves, tree bark, textures or anything that catches your eyes. Bring the mini world to life with your macro lens or telephoto as we walk the trails of the forest preserve.
book now
$49      
Using Light & Shadow in Photography

Using Light & Shadow in Photography

Saturday 30 August
Du Page Township - 4:30pm - 2 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
Light and shadow photography is a type of photography that focuses on capturing the interplay between light and shadow in a particular scene. This style of photography often produces dramatic and compelling images that can evoke strong emotions in the viewer.

Harsh light and the contrast between light and shadow can provide some interesting photo
opportunities, as well as some challenges!

In this meetup, we will be looking at how you can use your camera's settings to nail the exposure.
book now
$49      

Composition in Photography Meetup

Composition in Photography Meetup

Sunday 07 September
Off Raymond Drive - 2pm - 2 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
In this fun framing course, we'll explore various composition principles - From understanding the rule of thirds to understanding leading lines, you'll learn techniques to transform ordinary shots into extraordinary captures. The compositions can be combined or ignored all together once you know the photography rules to seek out in the walking journey.Together, let's sharpen your ability to perceive and capture the scenes that inspire you most.Join us as we set out to discover the composition challenges you will be provided to help train your eyes to see and capture with intention.Join us as we set out to discover the composition challenges you will be provided to help train your eyes to see and capture with intention.Join us as we set out to discover the composition challenges you will be provided to help train your eyes to see and capture with intention.

Join us as we set out to discover the composition challenges you will be provided to help train your eyes to see and capture with intention.
book now
$49      
Capture the Wild: Photography at Phillips Park Zoo

Capture the Wild: Photography at Phillips Park Zoo

Saturday 13 September
Park at lot on Ray Moses Dr. - 3pm - 3 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
Come and see the animals at the zoo. They don't bite. We can photograph them in their environment behind the barriers. This zoo is free and open to the public. We can have time to explore and capture their unique personalities.

We can also explore this park for more photographic opportunities beyond the animals.
book now
$98      
Portraiture With Natural Light Class

Portraiture With Natural Light Class

Sunday 21 September
Book Road - 2pm - 3 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
In this class you will learn proper posing techniques and gain an understanding of using natural light to expose your subject. We will utilize natural light in our environment locations. We will walk through, troubleshoot, make adjustments, and capture portraits successfully. We will also learn how to use various light modifiers like reflectors to help capture amazing shots in not-so-great lighting. This 3-hour event will run from 2:00 -5:00pm to allow everyone to practice using their gear to capture images while allowing time for feedback from the group.
Each participant can practice being the model or being the photographer.
book now
$98      

Fall Foliage Photography Class

Fall Foliage Photography Class

Sunday 12 October
Herrick Lake Forest Preserve - 2pm - 3 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
Capture the breathtaking colors of autumn in this focused photography meetup, aimed at exploring and mastering fall landscape techniques.This class will be combined with the Fall Solstice Season 3 Session held at Herrick lake. This just means that we will have one day for the foliage here. Fall in this region is predicated to be its peak around this date . Come join us to capture the beautiful colors of the season !

This class will be combined with the Fall Solstice Season 3. This season #3 is Located at the same place as the other seasons. Fall in this region is predicated to be its peak around this date . Come capture the moment!
book now
$98      
Nature Photography Meetup

Nature Photography Meetup

Saturday 18 October
Blackwell Forest preserve - 3pm - 2 Hours
Naperville Photography Group
Martina Landolt
Join this session for tips on how to creatively capture nature in a visually interesting way. We will be exploring composition, focus, and color. Nature's beauty is all around us, it takes a trained “eye" to capture little pieces of nature and turn it into a beautiful piece of art. We will look for different angles, light and shadows to make our subjects pop.
book now
$49      

Other Nearby Groups

Portraiture for Beginners

Portraiture for Beginners

Saturday 21 June
Andersonville area - 10am - 2 Hours
Chicago Art Group
Geanina Zaharia
Join us for "Portraiture for Beginners" where you'll learn to capture the essence of a face with confidence and skill! Perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts, this class will guide you through essential techniques to create lifelike and expressive portraits. With expert tips and step-by-step instructions, you'll be amazed at how quickly your skills improve. Bring your basic art materials and get ready for a fun, creative journey. Reserve your spot today, and we'll send you all the event details upon confirmation!
book now
$47      
The Preserve of Highland Park - Mini Photo Session

The Preserve of Highland Park - Mini Photo Session

Sunday 22 June
The Preserve of Highland Park
Chicago Family Portrait
Do you need an updated family portrait? Come along to our mini photo sessions.Mini-sessions are short 30 minute photo sessions for up to 6 people - perfect for families with little ones who can't sit still for too long.

book now       9:30am       $190

booked       10:00am

book now       10:30am       $190
Beginner's Crochet Class

Beginner's Crochet Class

Saturday 12 July
West Lawn - 9:30am - 3 Hours
Chicago Crochet Club
Brenda K. Kinnerk
If you are brand new to crochet, haven't picked up a hook in years, or simply want a little more guidance on those all important basic stitches this is the class for you. We will start with techniques for holding the yarn and then continue by learning the five basic stitches. We will also cover how to read crochet patterns and by the end of our session, everyone should have created a basic square dishcloth. Crochet materials are included as well as light refreshments.
book now
$89      

Drawing for Beginners

Drawing for Beginners

Saturday 12 July
Andersonville area - 10am - 2 Hours
Chicago Art Group
Geanina Zaharia
In this class, we will explore the basics of drawing and equip you with the skills needed to create beautiful and expressive artwork.

Our experienced instructor will guide you through the fundamentals of drawing, including perspective, proportion, shading, and composition.

We will also be practicing various forms of Mark Making techniques and hopefully will make an empty page less daunting to fill up.

Perfect for complete beginners.
book now
$49      
The Preserve of Highland Park - Mini Photo Session

The Preserve of Highland Park - Mini Photo Session

Saturday 19 July
The Preserve of Highland Park
Chicago Family Portrait
Do you need an updated family portrait? Come along to our mini photo sessions.Mini-sessions are short 30 minute photo sessions for up to 6 people - perfect for families with little ones who can't sit still for too long.

book now       10:00am       $190

book now       10:30am       $190
Interactive Art Reproduction  Sketch Like the Masters

Interactive Art Reproduction Sketch Like the Masters

Saturday 19 July
Andersonville area - 10am - 2 Hours
Chicago Art Group
Geanina Zaharia
Step into the world of iconic artists and bring their masterpieces to life - your way! In this fun, hands-on workshop, you'll recreate a famous painting while learning essential art concepts like composition, line, shape, form, and more. Perfect for beginners and art lovers alike, this session blends a little art history with a lot of creativity. No pressure, just pencils, paper, and plenty of inspiration. Let's sketch, sip coffee, and channel our inner Van Gogh together!
book now
$49      

Beginner's Watercolour Class

Beginner's Watercolour Class

Saturday 19 July
N Clark St - 10am - 3 Hours
Chicago Watercolor Group
Kris Van Stockum
Are you wanting to learn more about Watercolour painting? Then join this small class hosted by a professional instructor, specifically designed to assist beginners.

You will learn fundamental watercolour techniques, color theory, how to mix paint and then turn your knowledge into a stunning piece of art.
book now
$49      
Figure Gesture Drawing

Figure Gesture Drawing

Saturday 09 August
Andersonville area - 10am - 2 Hours
Chicago Art Group
Geanina Zaharia
In this workshop, we will explore the art of capturing the essence and movement of the human figure through gesture drawing.

Our experienced instructor will guide you through the process of simplifying the figure, breaking it down into basic shapes and forms to create accurate and expressive poses. We will cover topics such as exaggerating poses, building shapes, and drawing with accuracy.
book now
$49      
The Preserve of Highland Park - Mini Photo Session

The Preserve of Highland Park - Mini Photo Session

Saturday 16 August
The Preserve of Highland Park
Chicago Family Portrait
Do you need an updated family portrait? Come along to our mini photo sessions.Mini-sessions are short 30 minute photo sessions for up to 6 people - perfect for families with little ones who can't sit still for too long.

book now       10:00am       $190

book now       10:30am       $190

Drawing for Beginners

Drawing for Beginners

Saturday 23 August
Andersonville area - 10am - 2 Hours
Chicago Art Group
Geanina Zaharia
In this class, we will explore the basics of drawing and equip you with the skills needed to create beautiful and expressive artwork.

Our experienced instructor will guide you through the fundamentals of drawing, including perspective, proportion, shading, and composition.

We will also be practicing various forms of Mark Making techniques and hopefully will make an empty page less daunting to fill up.

Perfect for complete beginners.
book now
$49      
The Preserve of Highland Park - Mini Photo Session

The Preserve of Highland Park - Mini Photo Session

Saturday 06 September
The Preserve of Highland Park
Chicago Family Portrait
Do you need an updated family portrait? Come along to our mini photo sessions.Mini-sessions are short 30 minute photo sessions for up to 6 people - perfect for families with little ones who can't sit still for too long.

book now       1:00pm       $190

book now       1:30pm       $190
Step by Step Portrait

Step by Step Portrait

Saturday 13 September
Andersonville area - 10am - 2 Hours
Chicago Art Group
Geanina Zaharia
Dive into the world of composition with our "Step by Step Portrait" class! Perfect for beginners and art enthusiasts, this class will teach you how to create visually stunning and balanced artworks. With fun, hands-on exercises and expert guidance, you'll learn how to arrange elements to create harmony and impact in your art. Bring your basic art materials and get ready to elevate your creative skills. Reserve your spot now, and we'll send you all the event details upon confirmation!
book now
$49      

ABOUT CHICAGO
PHOTOGRAPHY
GROUP
Come along to our photo sessions to dust off your camera and get snap-happy with a professional photography instructor.

Brush up on your camera skills and learn new photography techniques whilst on a photo walk class with other local keen photographers!

We run two hour photography sessions based on a photography theme/technique/style and they take place in various locations in Chicago .

  • New to photography? We also run a popular 3 hour Beginners Guide to Photography Class once a month. And once in a while we will run special niche 3 hour classes, for example, Astrophotography - so do subscribe to our newsletter to know when the next on is!

  • Who can attend? Open to all skill levels, from beginners to keen amateurs. The photography instructor is there to help you with camera settings and provide any advice you need.

  • What to bring? We recommend bringing a camera that has full manual mode or semi-manual modes (Aperture or Shutter Priority). Compact cameras and smartphones also welcome!

    The meeting point and full details for the day are sent in the booking confirmation email to the email address you provide at time of booking.

    Join the Chicago Photography Group on Facebook to share your photos after the session.

    Got a question? Try our FAQ.
  • REVIEWS
    it was great, thanks Cait!
    5/5
    Bilol
    2025-04-07
    Great session. Caitlin was knowledgeable, informative and fun. ,
    5/5
    Rod
    2025-04-06
    Although the skies were cloudy, there were enough opportunities to get some interesting shots.
    5/5
    John
    2025-03-18

    -
    5/5
    -
    2025-02-23
    Kate did a great job of leading us - she has a good eye for seeing things I do not. She was very helpful and a joy to be with! We were able to work our way up North Michigan Ave and take advantage of the great architecture along the way.
    4/5
    Nicholas
    2024-11-25
    I recently joined the Chicago photography group led by Cait and had the chance to participate in a night street photography event with her. The experience was amazing! Cait is not only incredibly knowledgeable but also very approachable, making it easy for everyone to learn and grow regardless of their skill level. She guided us through different techniques for capturing the essence of the city at night, from playing with shadows and lights to capturing motion. I came away with some fantastic shots and a deeper appreciation for night photography. Highly recommend joining Cait?s events if you want to elevate your photography skills
    5/5
    Rajesh
    2024-09-17

    Weather was terrible, but I had a great time anyway! Caitlin is so creative and fun to shoot with.
    5/5
    Becca
    2023-04-30
    I really enjoyed the event. It was a great way to meet other photographers and was an activity that I wouldn't have thought to do on my own. Cailtlin was kind and knowledgeable. And fun to chat with.
    5/5
    Becca
    2023-03-05
    PHOTOGRAPHERS
    Caitlin KellyThompson
    Caitlin Kelly Thompson is a portrait photographer that mixes street, documentary, and portraiture together to capture life. For her, the best thing about photographing people is the moment when the person posing relaxes and is themselves. Other than photography, Caitlin loves to travel, knit, and listen to podcasts.
    PHOTOS
    Chicago Photography Group
    2025-06-07
    Title or Location: Chicago (Streeterville)
    Shot this tour Helicopter through a rainbow over Lake Michigan from the rooftops in Downtown Chicago
    Credit: Dugan Nash
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dugannashphotography
    Instagram: D.nash_dslr

    Chicago Photography Group
    2025-06-04
    Title or Location: DuSable Bridge, Chicago, IL

    Credit: BTDT Photography
    Facebook: Facebook.com/btdtxx
    Instagram: Instagram.com/btdtxx
    Chicago Photography Group
    2025-06-04
    Title or Location: 606 Trail
    Drone photo of the west end of the 606 Trail in Logan Square.
    Credit: Moses Polonio
    Instagram: 606vision

    Chicago Photography Group
    2025-06-02
    Title or Location: Chicago Lakefront
    My wife and I were looking for a combination of light , and shadow with a silhouette on an early Saturday morning on Chicago?s lakefront. We came across a young lady running right along a leading line between light and shadow.
    Credit: Michael Andrew Reyes
    Instagram: michaelandrewphotography1801

    Chicago Photography Group
    2025-05-21
    Title or Location: Monadnock Building
    "The Light, the Dark, and the In-Between"
    Credit: Dantrell Wright
    Facebook: Wright Moment Photography
    Instagram: thewmphotos
    Chicago Photography Group
    2025-05-19
    Title or Location: Red Robin
    Just another walk in the park spotting birds and this lovely red robin walks around and stop staying still waiting for me to take a shot.
    Credit: RandyCabanilla

    Isle Of Wight Photography Group
    2025-06-15
    Title or Location: West wight
    A beautiful fox cub smelling a flower in the beautiful sunshine.
    Credit: Josh Thomas
    Facebook: Capture The Second Photography
    Instagram: capture_the_second_photography

    Cincinnati Photography Group
    2025-06-15
    Title or Location: Rising Sun Indiana
    This image was shot in the winter..the temperature was 13f. ..had to chill my lens to meet the extreme cold ..the location is Red Wolf Santuary
    Credit: Roger harris
    San Francisco Photography Group
    2025-06-15
    Title or Location: Milpitas, CA
    The crows do not like sharing the same air space.
    Credit: Brian
    Instagram: dsnylnd4me

    Orange County Photography Group
    2025-06-15
    Title or Location: Bolsa Chica Wildlife Preserve
    The significance of this shot for me was it was my first American Bald Eagle I had captured in the wild - after my wife, Susan, pointed it out to me. I was thrilled and determined to make the best capture I could.Upon closer examination I was awe inspired to see (in detail) the death stare, that razor like tool cutting beak, the unbelievable chest muscles and tremendous talons. Scary.Camera: Canon EOS R7 (Mark 1)Lens: Canon RF 100-500 F4.5-7.1Aperture: F11Shutter Speed: 1/1000Foca
    Credit: Dave Migliore
    Facebook: Dave Migliore
    Instagram: dave_sandy_migliore

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