Bowling Ball Beach & Point Arena Lighthouse Photography Workshop - Spring

Description

Photograph one of the most extraordinary coastal landscapes in California during this full-day photography workshop along the rugged Mendocino coast.

Our journey begins with a scenic drive north from Petaluma, exploring dramatic viewpoints and coastal vistas before arriving at the historic Point Arena Lighthouse. Rising above steep cliffs and the open Pacific, the lighthouse provides striking compositions of architecture, ocean, and sweeping horizon.

In the late afternoon we continue to one of the most unusual geological formations on the California coast—Bowling Ball Beach. At low tide, rows of perfectly rounded stone concretions emerge from the sand, resembling giant bowling balls scattered along the shoreline. As waves move through the formations, long exposures transform the water into smooth, flowing patterns of motion and light.

We’ll photograph through the golden hour, sunset, and blue hour as changing light and tide conditions create dramatic opportunities for creative coastal photography.

This workshop is limited to six participants, allowing plenty of time for personalized instruction and creative guidance throughout the day.

What You’ll Learn

During the workshop we’ll focus on techniques for photographing coastal landscapes, including:

• Long-exposure techniques for moving water

• Choosing shutter speeds to create silky wave motion

• Composing strong images with foreground elements

• Managing exposure in rapidly changing coastal light

• Working with dramatic weather, clouds, and sunset color

Photographers of all experience levels are welcome.

Workshop Experience

We’ll begin at Lance’s studio in Petaluma and organize carpooling for the scenic coastal drive north. Along the way we’ll make several photography stops and visit the town of Point Arena for a late lunch before heading to Bowling Ball Beach for the evening session.

Our arrival at the beach is timed to take advantage of favorable tide conditions and sunset light, giving us the best opportunity to photograph the remarkable stone formations and the movement of waves around them.

We’ll remain on the beach through sunset and into blue hour, when long exposures can produce some of the most atmospheric images of the day.

Workshop Details

Date: Sunday, March 15, 2026

Time: Noon – 9:00 PM

Location: Mendocino Coast

Cost: $150

Group Size: Limited to 6 participants

What’s Included

• Small-group photography instruction throughout the day

• Guidance on composition, exposure, and creative technique

• A map of our photo locations after the workshop

What to Bring

• DSLR or mirrorless camera

• Tripod

• Wide-angle or mid-range lens

• Neutral density filters (optional but helpful)

• Warm layers for coastal wind

• Headlamp or flashlight for the walk back after sunset

Reserve Your Spot

Space is limited to six photographers to allow for individual instruction and a relaxed pace in the field.

Reserve your spot and join us for an unforgettable day photographing the dramatic coastline of Northern California.

Early Registration Discount

Register at least 7 days before the workshop and receive a 10% early registration discount.