Adult Opportunities

Outdoor Portrait Photography

Explore techniques for taking portrait photographs in nature.

Content Detail

Learn how to take portraits of your friends and loved ones in their favorite outdoor locations with this nature photography workshop at The Morton Arboretum.

With a mix of classroom learning and hands-on experience, students will:

  • Learn about lighting, lenses, poses, and candid techniques
  • Have an opportunity to practice with your classmates in authentic outdoor settings
  • Share your images with classmates for a constructive feedback session

The first session will focus on techniques. The following week will be spent outdoors, practicing the skills under the guidance of your instructor, and then reviewing images to share feedback and ask questions.

Bring your camera, a 70- to 80-mm lens (or higher), a flash (if you have one), and a willingness to be photographed while enjoying the creative process of outdoor portraits.

All experience levels are welcome.

This program meets in person at the Arboretum.

Instructor: Erica Benson, photographer

Age: 16 and older

Course number: P106

Instructor

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.

What to Know

This program meets indoors and outdoors. Check the forecast and dress for the weather.

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, a tripod, a fully charged DSLR camera, and a 70-80 mm lens or higher.

See Education Program Policies for information about cancellations, refunds, and scholarships.

Program Schedule

This program meets the following two times.

Wednesday, July 15, 2026, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 9:00 to 11:30 a.m.

Thornhill Education Center (parking lot P-21), West Side

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