Lance Kuehne Photography Workshops

# Photographing the Mendocino Coast & Bowling Ball Beach

Sunday, March 15, 2026 | Noon – 9:00 PM

Join us for a full-day photography adventure along the rugged Northern California coast, culminating in sunset and blue-hour photography at the remarkable rock formations of Bowling Ball Beach.

At low tide, perfectly rounded stone spheres emerge from the sand, creating one of the most unusual coastal landscapes in California. As waves move around them, long exposures transform the water into smooth, flowing patterns—an ideal setting for creative coastal photography.

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# What We’ll Photograph

During the workshop we’ll cover practical techniques for photographing coastal landscapes, including:

• Long exposure techniques for moving water
• Choosing shutter speeds for different wave patterns
• Composition strategies for coastal landscapes
• Managing exposure in changing light
• Working with dramatic weather and sunset conditions

Photographers of all experience levels are welcome.

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# The Itinerary

Meet at Lance’s Studio – Petaluma

We’ll begin at my studio in Petaluma and organize carpooling for the scenic drive north. Participants are also welcome to meet the group later in Gualala.

Coastal Stops

We’ll make several scenic stops along the way to photograph ocean vistas and stretch our legs.

Point Arena Lighthouse

One of the highlights of the trip is photographing the historic lighthouse and surrounding cliffs near Point Arena.

Late Lunch

We’ll stop in town for a relaxed meal before continuing south toward Bowling Ball Beach.

Sunset & Blue Hour

We’ll arrive at Bowling Ball Beach in time to explore compositions before sunset and photograph through twilight as waves move through the rock formations.

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# Why This Workshop Is Different

✔ Small Group Instruction
Workshops are limited to 6 participants, allowing for individual guidance throughout the day.

✔ Iconic Locations
We’ll photograph several dramatic locations along the Mendocino coast in a single day.

✔ Creative Techniques
Learn how to capture silky water effects and dramatic coastal light using long exposures.

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# What to Expect

Fitness Level: Moderate
Most locations are close to parking areas.

Beach Access:
There is a short but moderately steep path to reach Bowling Ball Beach, and we’ll return after dark. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight.

Restrooms:
The last facilities will be in Point Arena before heading to the beach.

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# Workshop Details

Date: Sunday, March 15, 2026
Time: Noon – 9 PM
Cost: $150

Included
• Photography instruction throughout the workshop
• Small group experience
• A map of our photo locations after the workshop

Not Included
• Meals or snacks
• Transportation (carpooling options available)

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# Reserve Your Spot

Space is limited to 6 participants.

You’ll receive a 10% early-bird discount if you register at least one week in advance.

### Photograph the Beauty of Western Sonoma in Spring

Saturday, March 28th, 2026 · 1:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Limited to 6 participants

Celebrate the arrival of spring with a scenic photography workshop along one of Sonoma County’s most beautiful and lesser-traveled roads. From coastal hills and remote ranches to old-growth forests and windswept sea stacks, this small-group workshop offers an inspiring mix of landscapes, textures, and light.

We’ll begin with a stop at a local bakery (because every good day starts with pastries), then spend the afternoon photographing green hills, historic buildings, still-lifes, and perhaps early wildflowers. As the day fades, we’ll head to the Sonoma Coast to capture sunset over the Pacific and dramatic sea stacks.

This is an ideal workshop for photographers of all levels who want to improve their skills while exploring the quiet charm of Western Sonoma County in spring.

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### What You’ll Learn

✔ How to expose for scenes with deep shadows and bright skies
✔ Creative use of histograms and filters in spring light
✔ How to sharpen your focus, depth of field, and image quality
✔ Composition techniques for telling visual stories
✔ Spotting strong subjects in changing light and weather

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### Workshop Details

📍 Meet-Up: Start at Lance’s studio in Petaluma (carpooling available), or meet along the route

📍 Locations: Forests, ranchlands, hillsides, scenic backroads, and the Sonoma Coast

📅 Date: Saturday, March 28th
⏰ Time: 1:00 PM – 7:30 PM
💰 Cost: $150

👟 Fitness Level: Easy – minimal walking; all stops close to the road
🚻 Facilities: Restroom access every 1–2 hours
☕ Refreshment Stop: We’ll pause for snacks and drinks mid-afternoon

Included:
✅ Personalized instruction throughout the day
✅ Post-workshop map of photo locations
✅ Optional carpooling coordination

Not Included:
❌ Transportation
❌ Meals or snacks

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Join us for a relaxed spring afternoon on Sonoma’s western edge—where quiet roads, open skies, and coastal light offer unforgettable photographs and inspiration.

🔗 Reserve your spot today and capture the season’s quiet magic.

Capture the Magic of Spring Light on Mount Tamalpais!

Sunday, March 29th, 2026 1:00 PM – 7:30 PM

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of photography as we explore Mount Tamalpais’ most breathtaking landscapes, from lush redwood forests to panoramic sunset views over the Pacific Ocean. This small-group workshop (limited to just 6 participants) is designed for photographers of all skill levels who want to refine their craft while immersing themselves in the stunning beauty of Marin County in spring.

What to Expect
📍 Meeting Point: Start at my studio (with carpooling options) or meet us in Fairfax for a convenient starting point.

Our Journey Begins at Alpine Dam
We’ll kick off at Alpine Dam, where calm waters reflect the towering redwoods and oaks, creating perfect compositions for moody forest scenes and abstract details of the dam’s architecture. Here, we’ll go over camera settings to prepare for the day ahead.

Forest Trails, Rolling Fog & Golden Light
From Alpine Dam, we’ll gradually ascend toward **Bolina Ridge,**stopping to capture:
🌿 Moss-covered oaks & towering redwoods filtering soft afternoon light
🌼 Wildflower-filled meadows bursting with poppies, lupines & irises
🌫 Rolling fog drifting through the valleys, creating ethereal landscapes
If conditions are right, we’ll position ourselves along Bolinas Ridge to capture the famous "islands in the sky" effect, where peaks rise above a sea of mist—an absolute dream for photographers!

Golden Hour & Sunset Magic
Before sunset, we’ll take a short hike near the peak along a creekside trail in oak forests, then head to a vista point, where you'll enjoy sweeping views of the San Francisco Bay and Pacific Ocean.
As the sun lowers, we’ll return to Bolinas Ridge, where golden light bathes the hills, casting long, dramatic shadows across the rolling landscape—a perfect opportunity for breathtaking compositions.

Sunset & Twilight Photography
We’ll wrap up at a stunning high vantage point, overlooking Bolinas Lagoon and the Pacific Ocean, just as the sky erupts in fiery hues of orange, pink, and purple.
📍 Bonus: After the workshop, you’ll receive a detailed map highlighting all the locations we photographed, so you can revisit them anytime!

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Why You Should Join
✔ Personalized, hands-on instruction in a small group setting (max 6 participants)
✔ A diverse range of stunning locations, from forests to ridgelines to coastal vistas
✔ Perfect for all skill levels—whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro looking to refine your skills
✔ Experience the magic of Mount Tamalpais in spring, a photographer’s paradise!

📷 Gear Guidance:

• Learn how to make the most of your current gear, whether you’re using a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or smartphone
• Get recommendations on essential lenses and accessories for landscape photography

🎨 Creative Support:

• Work on developing your unique photographic style with professional feedback
• Get inspiration and new creative approaches for landscape photography

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Workshop Details

📅 Date & Time: Sunday, March 29th, 1:00 PM – 7:30 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)
👟 Fitness Level: Easy to moderate – most locations are close to parking areas with minimal hiking.

📷 Don’t miss this exclusive opportunity to capture the beauty of Mount Tamalpais in spring.

🔗 Reserve Your Spot Today!

Join us for a relaxed 2-hour photowalk through historic downtown Petaluma, where we’ll explore textures, reflections, architecture, and evening light. This free event is open to all levels—from beginners looking for guidance to experienced photographers who just want to shoot with others.

We’ll meet at Putnam Plaza and make our way through side streets, alleyways, and the waterfront area as golden hour sets in.

📅 Date: Wednesday, April 1

⏰ Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM

💰 Cost: Free

🎯 Skill Level: All levels welcome

📍 What to Bring: Camera (any kind), comfortable shoes, and a sense of curiosity!

Reserve Your Spot – Limited to 20 Participants!