Bowling Ball Beach & Point Arena - Fall

Capture the Magic of the Mendocino Coast and Bowling Ball Beach

Sunday, September 21st, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Join us for an unforgettable autumn photography adventure along California’s stunning Mendocino Coast, perfectly timed to capture Bowling Ball Beach at low tide and sunset. Whether you’re drawn to dramatic skies, golden-hour reflections, or the mysterious rock formations revealed by the receding tide, this workshop is designed to help you elevate your coastal photography skills.

What to Expect This Time of Year

🍂 Golden Light & Long Shadows – The lower autumn sun enhances textures, creating rich contrasts and dynamic compositions. Golden hour lasts longer, offering extended shooting opportunities.

🌊 Tide Considerations – The famous spherical rock formations are fully revealed at low tide. Autumn’s predictable tides make it easier to time a visit when the beach is at its most photogenic. A receding tide at sunset is ideal for long-exposure photography.

🌫 Moody Coastal Atmosphere – Cooler temperatures bring crisper air and occasional mist, adding depth and mystery. Some evenings feature soft, rolling fog, while others showcase clear, vibrant skies.

🌙 Sunset & Blue Hour Magic – Fall sunsets can be spectacular, with deep oranges, pinks, and purples stretching across the sky. After sunset, blue hour provides an opportunity for long exposures, capturing the soft twilight glow against the mystical rock formations.

📍 Itinerary

🚀 Starting Point – Lance’s Petaluma Studio

We begin at Lance’s studio in Petaluma, where we’ll organize carpooling for a scenic coastal drive (optional). If preferred, you can meet us in Gualala instead.

🚗 Coastal Road Trip with Scenic Stops

As we head north, we’ll stop along the way in Gualala and possibly other picturesque locations to stretch, photograph the coastline, grab refreshments, and use restrooms. These stops provide excellent opportunities to capture windswept bluffs and ocean vistas.

📷 Point Arena Lighthouse – A Coastal Icon

Our first major stop is the historic Point Arena Lighthouse, where we’ll explore multiple vantage points to capture:

✅ Dramatic cliffs plunging into the Pacific

✅ The towering lighthouse against an endless horizon

✅ Waves crashing against rugged coastal formations

🥗 Lunch Break in Point Arena

We’ll pause for a late lunch in the charming town of Point Arena, giving us a chance to warm up and discuss shooting techniques before our next stop.

🌊 Sunset & Blue Hour at Bowling Ball Beach

In the late afternoon, we’ll arrive at Bowling Ball Beach, timed for optimal tide conditions. As the sun sets, warm hues will bathe the spherical rock formations, creating a breathtaking scene. We’ll stay well past sundown to experiment with blue-hour and long-exposure techniques.

Why You Should Attend

✅ Perfect Timing & Location – This workshop is planned around the ideal tide and sunset alignment at Bowling Ball Beach. Plus, we’ll explore Point Arena Lighthouse, with potential bonus stops at Salt Point or Sea Ranch for even more diverse coastal landscapes.

✅ Master Light & Exposure – Learn how to balance highlights and shadows in varying light conditions, from bright midday to moody twilight.

✅ Exclusive Small Group Experience – With only 5 participants, you’ll receive personalized instruction tailored to your skill level—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer.

✅ Go Beyond the Basics – Explore advanced techniques, including:

📷 Long-Exposure Water Effects – Create silky water effects as waves move around the boulders.

📷 Gear Optimization – Learn how to maximize your current DSLR, mirrorless camera, or smartphone. Get recommendations on the best lenses and accessories for coastal photography.

🎨 Creative Development – Receive professional feedback and inspiration to refine your personal photography style.

What to Expect

👟 Fitness Level: moderate – Most locations are close to parking areas with minimal hiking.

🚶♂️ Hiking Note: There is a moderate hike with elevation change to reach the beach, and we will return in darkness—so bring a headlamp. The beach access ladder has fire damage, so be prepared for possible obstacles.

🚻 Restroom Stops: The last available facilities will be in Point Arena before we head to Bowling Ball Beach.

📜 Bonus! After the workshop, you’ll receive a detailed map of our photo locations, so you can revisit these hidden gems anytime.

Workshop Details

📅 Date & Time: Sunday, September 21st, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
💰 Cost: $150

What’s Included:

✅ Expert photography instruction tailored to your level
✅ A detailed map of all our photo stops after the workshop
✅ Carpooling options from my studio

What’s Not Included:

❌ Snacks (bring your own for energy!)
❌ Transportation (aside from carpooling options)

📩 Reserve Your Spot Today!
Get a 10% Early Bird discount if you sign up at least a week in advance.