SensorySafe & ADA Inclusive PhotoStudio & Darkroom

Greetings! I’m Tristine Walker, the face behind Tristine Walker Imagery, a Chicago-based Portrait Studio and Event Photography business.

I’m thrilled to share my journey with you and invite you to be part of a transformative effort through this GoFundMe campaign. Together, we can create a more inclusive and accessible photography experience while building a space for creativity and community.

Who I Am

I’m Tristine Walker—a proud Midwesterner who loves cats, cozy beverages, and all things art, especially photography. After becoming a mom, I decided to relaunch my photography business with the determination that passion alone would carry me forward. But society isn’t always kind to dreamers. The world often says, "figure it out or let it go," but I refuse to give up on something that is so deeply tied to who I am.

I’ve been photographing life for over 20 years and running my business for more than a decade, creating images that tell stories, evoke emotions, and connect us. Now, my journey has evolved. I want to extend the beauty of portrait photography to everyone, especially individuals who often feel left out of the process—people who are hard of hearing, disabled, neurodivergent, or have sensory sensitivities.

This fundraiser is the cornerstone for creating a new portrait studio that goes beyond just capturing images—it will be a safe, welcoming space designed for inclusivity and accessibility.

Why a Fundraiser?

Life has thrown its share of challenges my way, from hospitalizations due to a stomach illness and a pinched nerve to a thyroid cancer scare (thankfully benign for now). These health struggles have taken a toll on my ability to maintain financial momentum. Each time I recovered, I rebuilt my business from scratch.

Now, I’m in a well phase and ready to push forward—but this time, I’m asking for your help to build a stable foundation that allows my business to grow and serve the community in new and meaningful ways. While I explore grants and other funding opportunities, your support through this campaign will help me bridge the gap.

My Mission

At the heart of this project is the belief that art should be for everyone. My goal is to transition to a larger, fully ADA-compliant studio that also provides a sensory-safe environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities and neurodivergence.

ADA Accessibility: My future studio will feature barrier-free entryways, elevator access, and spacious layouts, ensuring everyone can participate in the joy of professional portraiture.

Sensory Safety: Photography sessions can feel overwhelming for those with sensory sensitivities. By incorporating quiet, calming design elements and LED lighting, I’ll create an environment where clients feel comfortable and respected.

Community Connection: Language and understanding matter. With training in ASL, Spanish, and neurodivergent fundamentals, I’ll ensure every client feels seen, heard, and understood.

The Albany Park Community Darkroom

This campaign also supports a dream of creating a shared community darkroom in Albany Park. A darkroom provides a space for artists and photographers to learn, create, and connect through the hands-on art of film photography. It’s a chance to nurture creativity, foster collaboration, and keep traditional processes alive in a modern world.

How Your Support Will Help

$35,000 Goal Breakdown:

Studio Transition & Accessibility Enhancements:

Rent, deposit, and moving costs: $17,100

Utilities & insurance: $6,000

Sensory-Safe Equipment Upgrades:

LED lighting and new cameras: $6,000

Community Darkroom Development:

Setup and initial materials: $4,000

Professional Growth:

Training (ASL, Spanish, and inclusive certifications): $900

Networking memberships and events: $600

Marketing & Outreach:

Campaigns and promotions: $400

How You Can Help

Your support makes all the difference! Whether you donate, share this campaign, or book a session, you’re helping to create a space where art and inclusivity intersect.

This is more than a fundraiser—it’s a chance to build something that celebrates diversity, uplifts creativity, and brings people together.

Thank you for believing in my vision. Your support fuels my passion and drives me forward. Let’s create something extraordinary together!

Visit TristineWalkerImagery.com or follow me on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook @TristineWalkerImagery for updates.