Work under the guidance of professional photographers to identify elements of the prairie and its ecosystem essential to capturing this complex landscape. Then, go out to explore the prairie with your camera to capture landscape and close-up photos of the environment. Experiment with camera settings, lenses, and light to best capture those moments, then spend time in the classroom reviewing images produced by you and your peers.
You will leave with knowledge of both plant identification and capturing the environment through photography.
Bring a DSLR, point-and-shoot, or film camera.
All experience levels are welcome.
This program meets in person at the Arboretum.
Instructors: Erica Benson, photographer; Cari Dale, horticulturist, The Morton Arboretum
Age: 16 and older
Course number: P342
Instructors
Erica Benson, photographer
Erica Benson has been a professional photographer since 2000 and a photography instructor since 2007. She is passionate about her field and looks forward to sharing her experience with her students.
Cari Dale, horticulturist, The Morton Arboretum
Cari Dale holds a Bachelor of Science in horticulture from Iowa State University. Growing up in Iowa, she developed an early fascination with plants beyond the state’s dominant corn and soybean crops. In 1999, Dale began working as a landscape designer in the Chicago suburbs before shifting her focus to native plants. Since 2019, she has been a horticulturist at The Morton Arboretum, where she oversees 160 (and counting!) native plant species growing around Meadow Lake.
What to Know
This program meets indoors and outdoors. Check the forecast and dress for the weather, including sun protection.
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and plan to walk more than a mile on uneven terrain.
This program is open to all experience levels.
Please bring water and your fully charged camera. DSLRs, point-and-shoot, and film cameras are welcome.
See Education Program Policies for information about cancellations, refunds, and scholarships.
Program Schedule
Saturday, August 29, 2026, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Prairie Visitor Station (parking lot P-25), West Side
