Back in January, I had the amazing opportunity to head down to Austin, Texas to reunite with some amazing photographers from across the country for the KSW Retreat.  What is KSW?  The Kitchen Sink Workshop  I attended KSW back in the spring of 2012, and it completely changed my business.  I learned so much and have been forever grateful for the amazing experience I had there.

When I said bye to Amanda Holloway at the KSW Retreat this year after 3 days, I gave her a big hug and told her, “My business wouldn’t be the same without you and KSW.”  And I 100% meant it.   Not only did the original KSW help refine my shooting style and workflow for seniors, it completely changed the way I go about my business, marketing, and well, everything.  I am so so SO glad I went.  And going BACK for a little reunion refresher 3 years later was equally as amazing!

I’m a firm believer in that we never stop learning, and so when you get 40 photographers together who are passionate and talented, you are bound to learn a LOT!  These are some of the best seniors photographers in the COUNTRY, people that I look up to, so being able to photograph alongside them, share our ideas together over a round table, and just chat and have a good time was so amazing.  I loved every minute of it!

And of course, we had fun doing quite a few photo shoots while we were there!  We photographed some iconic locations around Austin with some of the most amazing models.  And because no post is complete without some photo loveliness, here are some of my favorites from the KSW Retreat 2015!

Apparently this is the blue wall in Austin and is quite well known.  I just thought it looked great with those glam sequin leggings!

We then hit up a GIGANTIC graffiti park.  When we arrived, it was crawling with people absolutely everywhere.  I was so nervous and thought there was no way 40 photographers and 10 models would be able to accomplish anything with literally hundreds of people everywhere.  But I just had to get over it and make it work!

One of my favorite looks from the graffiti park!

On day two, we went to a beautiful nature preserve and park for a more natural look.  I love that even though we were in Texas, I could easily picture all of these shots taking place in Iowa 🙂

Much love and appreciation to all the amazing people who made the KSW Retreat possible – to Amanda, Kody, and Maureen – you’re all the best!