Dee Dee

"I can honestly say working with Louisa throughout the months leading up to the retreat has helped me gain more confidence as a photographer, and learn ways to elevate myself on the business side. I made significant changes that have helped me grow big time and the LBI retreats was an amazing investment. Louisa invested a lot of time and energy into us and I appreciate it so much."

Bri

"Attending the Shore Shot Retreat was such an incredible experience, and Louisa was truly the heart of it all. Her guidance throughout the shoots and business sessions was spot-on — she knows exactly how to make photographers feel confident, inspired, and in control of both the creative and operational sides of their business.

What stood out most was her personality. She made the whole experience feel like hanging out with friends while still learning so much. The flow of the retreat was seamless, fun, and never once felt like “work.” It was the perfect mix of creativity, community, and strategy. Louisa has such a gift for creating an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable, motivated, and genuinely connected.

Can’t recommend it (or her!) enough."

Ashley

"It has honestly been such a wonderful experience knowing Louisa and learning from her. Even before the retreat I followed her on IG and tried to learn from her lighting and portrait photography techniques. That was one of the reasons I really wanted to go on the retreat. I knew that I could gain a lot from her instruction. To find not only an educator, but also a friend in her has been a really fantastic addition to my life AND business. Getting to spend time with fellow creatives and learn from each other, how we each handle our businesses differently and what works for us was something I didn't know I needed. Louisa chose a diverse group of businesses for us to work with and I think that allowed us to gain a better understanding of how to approach different businesses in our own communities and turn them into clients. She had us meet with all of them and get to know each of their business models and how their needs differed depending on the industry. She taught us different shooting and lighting techniques in each business and made sure that there was some type of obstacle we had to overcome. For instance, dark lighting in the restaurant or tight spaces in the solo entrepreneuer's home. We had to figure it out but Louisa was there to guide us through. I'm so glad I took the leap and went on this retreat. Louisa is kind, community-driven and all about connecting with people. She taught me a lot about the business side of photography and now I can take what I've learned and apply it to my own business. I'm grateful to have had the chance to learn from her and I hope I get to go on another one of her retreats in the future!"

Kasia

"I had the absolute best experience at The Shore Shot Retreat with Louisa Vilardi. From the moment I arrived at the beautiful beach house, everything felt thoughtfully planned and inspiring, down to the welcome gift and a cute tote bag engraved with my name waiting on my bed! The collaborative, hands-on photoshoots were invaluable. Not only did we get practical feedback in real time, but we got to take an incredible variety of portfolio-ready images that I’m truly excited to share.

Beginning each day with a group morning meeting helped us stay focused, and the agenda had the perfect balance between structured photoshoots and downtime to process what we did, and explore the gorgeous location. The diversity of businesses we photographed, ranging from food and fitness to clothing and beach settings, gave me such a well-rounded learning experience.

Louisa is a phenomenal educator. Watching her interact with clients, guide posing, and create genuine connections, and then getting to practice it myself was eye-opening.

Keeping the workshop to just a few ladies allow us all to truly bond and collaborate, and it felt inspiring to be part of such a creative group. It was an amazing value for what we received, and I’m already looking forward to the chance to attend again.



If you’re a photographer wanting to build your portfolio, grow your skills, and recharge your creative energy in a supportive and inspiring environment, Louisa's retreat is a must!"