This area is called “Mendonoma” which means Sonoma and Mendocino combined—so…the best of both worlds. Redwood forests, Fern Valleys and dynamic spectacular views of the Pacific Coast line—wildlife, birdlife, tide pools, big ocean surf all provide vast opportunities for beautiful images.

The group will be small and we will have the ability to tailor to the wishes and opportunity of the participants. The main workshop is based out of Gualala and The Sea Ranch (approximately 3 hours North of San Francisco). There is plenty of lodging available in the area.

The workshop hours will be early morning into the sunset….watching the sun drop into the Pacific Ocean horizon is a beautiful experience in itself. This is not a major hiking experience, but we will be walking perhaps a mile or so at different times and the paths might be uneven; but no hard trails or mountain climbing!!!

If you have not experienced the Pacific Coast, it is truly beautiful and if you have spent time on the Coast, join us to see some new and unusual places that we are familiar with and are our favorites!

Workshop Highlights:

  • Giant Redwood Forests: Capture the grandeur of Northern California’s towering ancient Redwood trees, a perfect opportunity to explore light, scale, and nature’s beauty.

  • Pacific Coast: Photograph the rugged coastal landscape with dramatic cliffs, breathtaking ocean views, and the mesmerizing power of crashing waves. Ideal for mastering seascape photography.

  • Full Moon Shoot at Pt. Arena Lighthouse: Experience the rare chance to photograph the full moon rising from the top of the 154-year-old Pt. Arena Lighthouse in the Lantern room, a truly magical setting. This is a private tour exclusively for our workshop.

Night Photography:

In addition to daytime shooting, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to dive into night photography. Capture the beauty of the coast and forest under starlit skies, and hone your skills in low-light photography. The highlight will be the Full Moon Shoot at Pt. Arena Lighthouse, where you’ll learn to work with moonlight to create stunning, atmospheric images.

Perfect for those looking to expand their photography skills beyond the daylight hours!

We’re thrilled to share some of our most cherished photo spots, including access to exclusive private properties. As locals, this area holds a special place in our hearts, and we can’t wait to introduce you to its hidden gems.

We will begin at 6 pm on (Wed November 13th) and end mid afternoon on (Sat November 16th) —with an optional sunset shoot for those who do not need to get back home before dark.

We look forward to sharing our enthusiasm and love for this area that we know so well. Join us!!!

 

****California King Tides will be happening during our workshop; this only happens only a couple of times a year—should make some exciting Coast/Ocean photography!!!****

 

DATES: November 13th (6 pm) to November 16th (mid-afternoon)
COST (TUITION): $799 – (Meals, transportation, lodging, and park fees are not included)
HOTEL: Of course our main focus is on photography and we are out and about most of the daylight hours shooting—so we think having a clean, simple hotel room is adequate. But often our participants come with a companion and for that couple, the type of hotel room is more significant. We will be happy to offer suggestions for lodging with a variety of price ranges and amenities. Our main suggestion is that you stay within Gualala or Sea Ranch, just for the logistics of being near to the group and the activities. Just give us a call or an email if you would like any suggestions or referrals
NEAREST AIRPORT: Sonoma County Airport in Santa Rosa, CA (2 hours); San Francisco, CA (3 hours); Oakland, CA (3 hours) Sacramento, CA (3 1/2 hours)
LOGISTICS:
  • All levels of photographic experience is welcome.
  • All cameras (including cell phones) are welcome.
  • There is minimal hiking involved (and if some hiking is not an option for you, we have an alternative plan).
  • We plan very full days of photography, as well as some room discussion and teaching.
  • We always are available to coach and encourage in the field and anxious to share any knowledge or inspiration that we have.
  • This is a really fun workshop, full of good photo opportunities, good camaraderie and great memories.
CANCELLATION POLICY: We ask that full payment is made upon registration. Cancellation 30 days prior to an event will generate a full refund, minus a $50 handling fee. There is no refund for cancellations less than 30 days before the event. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance in the event you need to cancel on short notice, especially if you will be purchasing airline tickets.
REGISTER FOR WORKSHOP:

Use the Paypal Button below or contact us via the Contact Form to pay with a check.
Please send us an email telling us that you have registered.     

NOTE: Once you have registered, we will send out a final registration form and a letter about gear, clothing and logistics will be sent prior to the workshop; however, if you have any questions, you are always welcome to phone or email us.