Creative Photography in the Urban Landscape
Chicago, IL October 5-9, 2025
Explore the art and architecture of Chicago on this 4-day photo workshop with Jason Odell. Discover creative techniques including long exposure, blue hour, HDR, and monochrome photography as you enjoy the sights and sounds of Chicago. This event includes an architectural boat tour and a walking food tour of the city!
Instructor: Jason P. Odell
Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced
You are expected to know the fundamental settings for focus and exposure with your digital camera
Activity Level: Mild to moderate
Workshop Style: Instructional photo workshop
We will visit popular locations around the downtown area to learn and perfect a variety of creative photographic techniques. There will also be independent exploration time allowing you to visit museums or other attractions between shooting sessions.
Workshop Fee
$1049
A $200 per deposit reserves your seat until August 1, 2025. Remaining balance is due August 1, 2025
What’s Included
- 3 full days of Instructional field photography sessions and photo walks led by Jason Odell
- Image review and post-processing demonstrations
- Architectural boat tour on the Chicago River
- Chicago food & walking tour with lunch
Not Included
- Meals and Lodging
- Transportation (we will utilize public transportation and/or ride-sharing services as needed)
General Itinerary
Each day, plan on an early morning (blue hour) shoot before and during sunrise followed by a photo walk or tour in different parts of downtown. Late afternoon photo walks will include sunset and twilight shooting at major landmarks.
Sunday, Oct. 5: Arrive in Chicago and check-in to the group hotel. Orientation at 6pm
Monday, Oct. 6: Morning and evening instructional photo walks with Jason. Mid-day: Chicago food & walking tour (includes lunch)
Tuesday, Oct. 7: Morning instructional photo walk, afternoon Architectural Boat Tour (90 minutes)
Wednesday, Oct. 8: Blue hour shooting before sunrise; sunset panoramic photography of the Chicago skyline
Thursday, Oct. 9: Check out and depart for home with your fantastic images
Shooting Locations Include
- Millennium Park (The Bean & Crown Fountain)
- Chicago Theater
- Buckingham Fountain
- Wacker Drive & Chicago River Walk
- Adler Planetarium (for skyline views)
- Pritzker Pavilion
- Grant Park
- Architectural Boat Tour
Additional Locations to Explore
- Museum of Contemporary Photography
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Field Museum of Natural History
- Museum of Contemporary Art
- Willis Tower
Recommended Gear
- DSLR or Mirrorless camera
- 24-120mm or similar zoom lens
- Wide-angle zoom (optional)
- Smartphone (optional)
- Travel tripod
Lodging: Congress Plaza Hotel
I have arranged a block of king rooms for the group at the Congress Plaza Hotel for $169/night plus tax. Lodging is the responsibility of each participant. I will provide a booking link upon registration.
Cancellation Policy
Deposits are non-refundable unless the event is canceled by the organizer. Final payments are non-refundable; I recommend purchasing trip insurance to protect your investment in this event.
