Calling all early birds! Don't miss this exciting opportunity to photograph Anza-Borrego during one of its most active and magical times: sunrise.
What to expect:
Award-winning photographer Paulette Donnellon will share her expert tips for capturing the desert’s vibrant wildlife, intricate plant life, and breathtaking landscapes.
Paulette will guide you through timing your photographs for key events like the Golden Hour and Blue Hour and help you master composition and cropping techniques.
You’ll also learn essential safety tips for desert photography, while discovering how to capture the desert's beauty in a way that respects its unique environment.
After the field session, we'll return to the ABF office for a presentation where Paulette will recap the day’s lessons and teach you how to process your photos using various software tools.
Who should attend:
Photography Enthusiasts – Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, you'll benefit from expert guidance and hands-on practice during a magical time of day.
Nature & Wildlife Lovers – If you're passionate about capturing wildlife, plants, and landscapes in their natural desert habitat, this is a unique opportunity.
Early Risers – As the event is centered around sunrise, it's perfect for those who enjoy starting their day early to make the most of the golden light.
Aspiring Landscape and Nature Photographers – Learn how to master timing, composition, and post-processing from a professional in a stunning setting.
Anyone Interested in Anza-Borrego – This is a great way to experience and appreciate the beauty of the Anza-Borrego Desert while learning how to photograph it responsibly.
Please bring:
At least 2 liters of water per person
Long pants
Sturdy closed toe shoes
Your choice of camera and gear (this can be anything from a cell phone to a professional camera)
Electrolytes
REGISTER TODAY!
https://host.nxt.blackbaud.com/registration-form/?formId=be4c3519-cc36-4ee5-aa5a-4a54cbdb5a7a&envId=p-Of6JnJ-NDU-Ys4lsF7CG9w&zone=usa
Date: Saturday, October 11, 2025
Time: 5:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m. (end time is approximate)
Location: Meet at the Anza-Borrego Foundation Administrative Office: 587 Palm Canyon Dr. #122, Borrego Springs, CA, 92004. This location is different from the State Park store and is located next to Kendall’s Café. We’ll then carpool and/or caravan to the field site in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, ensuring we arrive in time to witness the sunrise in all its glory.
Cost:
ABF Member: $85
Non-Member: $100
Student: $50
Cancellation Policy, Scholarships, & FAQ
What Previous Attendees Are Saying:
“I liked that Paulette would come up to us individually, or pull a group together to view something, or explain how to produce an effect. I also liked the post processing information.”
“…loved the location, the instructor, so knowledgeable and so talented! So passionate about the area and her photography! Paulette is a treasure!”
“[Paulette] has so much passion and energy for the desert and it is catching.”
“Paulette's photography workshop is worth the early rise as the desert wakes up into a blossom of color and beauty. It's a busy morning, bring everything you have as Paulette points out the shifting lights and colors.”
“This was my first opportunity for such an event and I thoroughly enjoyed it. [Paulette’s] knowledge of the area plants and animals is invaluable my biggest take away was all the hitting hidden beauty in the desert!”
“The magic of the desert came alive for me in this half day photography workshop. It was much more than just a lesson in photography--it was also an exploration of the desert flora/fauna and indigenous peoples history”
“I was able to see the beauty of the desert in a new way. Plus, with Paulette's help, I was able to capture the magic in photographs.”
“Paulette was very generous about sharing her expertise. Her suggestions for compositions in the field and her immediate feedback onsite were terrific. I appreciated her sharing post processing techniques as well. It was stunning to see the amazing range of color and beauty in the desert. I look forward to attending more workshops in the future. Thank you for an amazing day.”
About the Instructor: Paulette Donnellon is an award-winning nature and wildlife photographer whose image of an Eastern Collared Lizard is featured on the 2024 America the Beautiful National Park Pass. When she isn’t out in nature taking photos, she is employed by LEGO® Education and has served as a trustee for eight years for the San Diego County Board of Education and as an Executive Board member of Anza-Borrego Foundation. Paulette served nine years in the U.S. Army and was deployed during Desert Storm. She is incredibly knowledgeable about the flora, fauna and landscape features of Anza-Borrego. You can check out her photos on Instagram at @photogpaulette.
You may also like the following events from Anza-Borrego Foundation:
- Next Saturday, 4th October, 06:30 pm, Night Hike: Mine Wash in Borrego Springs
- Next month, 13th October, 09:00 am, California Naturalist in Anza-Borrego – Fall 2025 in Borrego Springs
- Next month, 15th October, 07:00 pm, The Desert Underground: Exposing a Valuable Hidden World under Our Feet (Webinar) in Borrego Springs, California
Also check out other
Workshops in Borrego Springs,
Photography events in Borrego Springs,
Arts events in Borrego Springs.
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