MACRO IN CHICAGO
AUGUST 24 - 27, 2025
One of the most unique and visually captivating genres in all of photography is macro. It is a world that is mostly unseen with the naked eye, but with the right tools, it allows us to discover new visual adventures each time we look through the viewfinder. Join DJP to strengthen your macro photography skills while exploring one of the most beautiful garden landscapes in the country at the Chicago Botanic Garden!
This workshop is designed to provide you with the strong foundational tools you can rely on every time you shoot macro. We will go over all the equipment alternatives and give you the technical know-how to use those tools creatively. We’ll cover the most effective use of light when shooting macro, how to ensure you have your focus right where you want it, and how to create strong compositions in macro photography. We’ll also cover processing software that will elevate your macro images. Doug will work with the group in the field to answer any questions or talk through any challenging situations.
With insightful presentations, engaging assignments supporting lecture topics, and personal critiques, you will walk away with the knowledge and skills to create beautiful macro images that communicate your unique vision!
**We hope you’ll consider extending your workshop experience in Chicago by also joining DJP’s Chicago in B&W workshop to explore iconic city landmarks while building your skills to see and process in black and white! Receive a $200 discount for participating in both workshops! Details under Registration below.
Overview
August 24 - August 27, 2025
Our workshop begins with a welcome orientation on Sunday, August 24 at 3:00pm and concludes after our group slideshow on Wednesday, August 27 at 6:00 pm.
Each day will include daily macro lectures (including workflow, lighting and composition). Daily field sessions and insightful critiques of your work will enhance the way that you see and strengthen your close up photographic skills!
Location Highlights: Chicago Botanic Garden and Garfield Park Conservatory.
REGISTRATION
Tuition includes all entrance fees to the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Macro in Chicago workshop only
Tuition: $2095
Deposit: $495 due with Registration
Balance: $1600 due May 26, 2025
Want to really elevate your skills? Register for both “Macro in Chicago” with “Chicago in B&W” workshops – and save $200!
Workshop combo (both Macro in Chicago & Chicago in B&W workshops): $3990 ($200 discount!)
Deposit: $895 due with Registration
Balance: $3095 due May 26, 2025
Already registered and need to make a final payment?
Click here to pay balance for Macro in Chicago.
Click here to pay balance for Macro in Chicago and Chicago in B&W combo.
Workshop Details
LODGING
Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel
933 Skokie Blvd, Northbrook, IL 60062
Rates Room choices are based on a first-come, first-served basis. A room block is set up for August 24 - 27 (4 nights) for workshop participants. The rate is $169 + tax.
To reserve your room please call the Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel at (847) 498-6500 and use the code Doug Johnson Photography Aug2025 Work to secure the group rate. The room block will be released August 1, 2025. After the release date, reservations will be based on availability. Check with the hotel regarding their hotel cancellation policies.
TRAVEL
Doug Johnson Photography is not responsible for cancellations due to medical or other emergencies or reimbursement of non-refundable airline tickets, or hotel rooms in the event of a course cancellation. Please consider the purchase of travel insurance.
The nearest airports for this workshop: Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD) or Chicago Midway Airport (MDW).
You are responsible for your own transportation during the workshop. Since parking at the hotel and shooting locations is very expensive, we’ll use local transportation companies (taxis, Uber or Lyft) or the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) to get around.
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Easy, paved sidewalks.
EQUIPMENT & ATTIRE
We want your experience on a Doug Johnson Photography workshop to be extraordinary and recognize that preparation is one important key to success. Should you have any questions about what you should bring with you to a workshop, please feel free to contact us.
For a list of recommended gear and attire, download our Gear & Packing List.
“The workshop was enjoyable and interesting and motivated me to improve my photography. The leaders were devoted to making the experience helpful to all and fun. Getting to know the other photographers was a joy.”
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Please visit FAQs about Location Workshops.
You can review our Cancellation Policy here.
We are always happy to talk with you about our workshops and what makes a good match for your goals. If you have any questions, please feel free to call Doug at 303-829-2215 or contact us via our online form.
