Pine Knoll with Ryan & Christina of Chestnut Grove Design Group

Chestnut Grove Design Group project in Magnolia, Massachusetts

This project for Christina Wickman and her husband, Ryan, of Chestnut Grove Design Group, featured in the Spring 2025 issue of Northshore Home magazine, was such a lovely two-day shoot. This was very much a team project. Christina made all the architectural and interior design decisions, while Ryan handled all the decisions around the landscape architecture. Their combined vision is what made the home feel so complete and personal.

One thing that really stands out to me is how often photographers and clients talk about the magical dusk shot when it comes to exteriors and architecture—but in this case, because the house sits so close to the water, the sunrise was just as spectacular. We wanted to capture that, so I actually arrived on site at around 5 AM—which is tricky since I live about an hour away—but it was totally worth it. Some of the exterior shots with the sun streaming in are, as far as I’m concerned, some of the best from the whole shoot. So, note to designers: morning light can be just as magical (if not better!) for capturing those perfect moments.

On the second day, there was also a videographer on site. While it was a little challenging to work around each other’s gear (he had quite a bit, and of course, I do too), the upside was that the client ended up with both stills and video. That additional content tells a fuller story of their home—which is always a great thing to have. You can check out the full project here.

Stay tuned for my Q&A with the designers, Ryan & Christina.

xx, Jess