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From VHT to The Collective

Wednesday, October 08, 2025 | By: Martina Magnusson

A New Chapter in Chicago Real Estate Photography

Real estate in Chicago’s competitive market demands more than quick snapshots — it 

When VHT Studios announced its closure, it shook our photography community. For many of us, VHT wasn’t just a company—it was where we built our careers, formed lasting friendships, and mastered the craft of telling a home’s story through images.

The sudden closure left a big question: What happens to all the photographers? And what about the agents who counted on us for their real estate photography?

Instead of scattering, we chose to come together. That’s how The Media Collective was born.

Who We Are

We are a team of experienced real estate photographers in Chicago who worked side by side through VHT and beyond, and we’re now building something new together. Our group spans the entire Chicagoland area, including the city and suburbs, so no matter where your listing is, someone from The Collective is nearby.

Meet the team:

  • Martina Magnusson — Downers Grove / DuPage County
  • Mark Gutierrez — Chicago & Western Suburbs
  • Dan Pietrini — Elmhurst / Lombard
  • Ilma Udrenas — Northwest Suburbs
  • Rick Knoell — Naperville / Aurora
  • Vince Collura — Chicago
  • Marcella Veneziano — Elmhurst
  • Steph Waszak — Chicago North Side
  • Sarah Callard-Booz — Oak Park / River Forest
  • Samii C. — Chicago West Suburbs
  • Julie Braveman — Naperville
  • Peter Scifo — North Shore
  • Chris Hirschberg — Western Suburbs
  • Norma Rios — Aurora / Joliet
  • Michelle — South Suburbs
  • Mikel — Chicago Metro (Drone Specialist)
  • Mike — Western Suburbs

Together, we represent decades of experience in Chicago real estate photography—capturing everything from starter homes to luxury estates, from aerial drone coverage to dramatic twilight sessions.

Why The Collective Feels Different

Choosing The Collective means more than beautiful photos. It means:

  • People-first service — We’re built on relationships, not corporate systems.
  • Stability & consistency — Not subject to corporate shutdowns, always here for you.
  • Shared values over volume — We believe in doing great work with care, not rushing through jobs.

We’re still here. We’re still creating. And booking is easier than ever with instant scheduling and next-day delivery.

Why It Matters

The closure of VHT could have been an ending. But we chose to make it a beginning.

By joining forces, we’re giving agents the continuity they need and photographers the respect and community they deserve. The Collective is about:

  • Quality over automation
  • Community over competition
  • Service over volume

In a competitive market like Chicago, professional real estate photography makes all the difference. From light-filled interiors to golden-hour exteriors, our work helps properties stand out and sell faster.

What We Offer

At The Collective, our focus is simple: quality, consistency, and service.

  • 📸 Photography packages designed for every listing
  • 📐 Floor plans that give buyers clarity
  • 🚁 Drone & aerial coverage for a bird’s-eye view
  • 🌅 Twilight sessions that add cinematic drama
  • 📊 Complete marketing kits (property websites, reels, flyers, traffic reports)

No automation. No shortcuts. Just intentional, human-driven media that tells the story of every home.

Special Offer from Martina Magnusson

I’m now booking through The Collective — and whether you’re new here or hearing about this for the first time, here’s something special for you (or to pass along to a friend):

🎉 Use code MX50 and enjoy $50 OFF your first Showcase, Essentials, or Twilight session with me.

📸 Book directly here: https://thecollective.hd.pics/order/

Why It Matters:

Professional photography is the first impression buyers get of your property. With the right images, you’re not just showing a house — you’re selling a lifestyle.

✔️ Showcase Package — up to 30 photos + floor plan
✔️ Essentials Package — streamlined coverage for smaller homes/rentals
✔️ Twilight Photography — cinematic drama at sunset

Whether you’re a Realtor, broker, builder, designer, or homeowner — this offer is for you. And if it’s not the right time for you, please share it with someone preparing to list their property.

✨ Let’s make your next property shine — with $50 savings on me.

Elevate Your Listings with The Collective

At The Collective, we don’t just take photos — we craft stories. Every property is approached with structure, atmosphere, and intent. Whether you’re an agent, architect, or builder, our goal is the same: to make your listings unforgettable.

📸 Photos · 🏠 Floor Plans · 🌅 Twilight · 🚁 Drone · + More
⚡ Next-Day Delivery | ✅ Consistent Quality | 💌 People-First Service

Ready to See Through My Lens?
Ready To Join the Vision?

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