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Get your tickets! Art in the Gardens is coming up August 2 and 3. Join us in a celebration of creative expression, gorgeous gardens, wine, beer, music, and food. Learn more and get tickets...

 

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Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, 47 acres of botanical bliss fronting the Pacific Ocean

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iPhone Garden Photography

Sunday, September 21, 2025
from 10:00am to 4:00pm
with a short break for lunch
at the MCBG Farmhouse

Register Now

 

Unlock the power of your iPhone camera! The iPhone is more than just a camera—it is a powerful, creative companion that is always within reach. Join Susan and Neil Silverman in this fun, hands-on workshop. Participants will go beyond the basics and learn how to bring their unique vision to life, whether they are capturing everyday moments, stunning landscapes, or expressive portraits. Whether brand new to photography or a seasoned enthusiast, participants will leave with fresh ideas, practical skills, and a renewed creative spark. Through live demonstrations, relaxed group discussions, and real-time tips, this workshop explores:

  • How to confidently adjust settings and controls
  • Using exposure, focus, and filters for artistic flair
  • Playing with shutter speed, macro mode, and lens options
  • Capturing striking portraits, close-ups, and panoramas
  • Easy composition techniques to make images stand out

Best of all, the group will head into the Gardens to practice these techniques in a beautiful and inspiring setting, because there is no better way to learn than by doing. Join the adventure and Find Your Vision—with the camera already in your pocket!

 

THE DETAILS

  • Bring a fully charged iPhone and cord, paper, and a pencil/pen.
  • Consider bringing a water bottle, snacks, and a sack lunch, or you can plan to hop over to Rhody's Cafe during the break.
  • The class will include a little indoor instruction and hands-on time outside. Be prepared for the weather with appropriate layers.

 

WORKSHOP REGISTRATION

Class size is limited! Registration for this workshop must be completed in advance online or at the MCBG gift shop. All workshop fees are non-refundable unless the workshop has been canceled or rescheduled by the Gardens.

 

Register Now

 

Workshop Registration .......................... $80 per participant and includes Gardens admission for the day

Member Workshop Registration ............ $70 per MCBG Member   
*Members must sign in to access the discounted rate

 

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS

Susan and Neil Silverman are a husband-and-wife photography team who have been sharing their passion for over 25 years—teaching, leading workshops, and capturing moments across a wide range of styles and settings.

They have taught at Kelby Photo Conferences, Santa Rosa Junior College, Pacific Northwest Art School, Point Reyes Field Institute, and for numerous photography clubs and organizations. Their work has been featured nationally and internationally. But for them, the true reward lies in sharing stories, building connections, and inspiring creativity in others.

Their Philosophy

The rise of smartphone cameras has opened the world of photography to everyone—no experience required. Susan and Neil believe that great images come from a mix of thoughtful technique and creative composition. With just a little guidance, iPhone photos can go from simple snapshots to powerful, eye-catching images.