Annual Holiday Party + Smartphone Tips for Plant Lovers

On December 12th, the Southern California Horticultural Societywill be hosting our Annual Holiday Party in conjunction with one of our newest board members, Marie Astrid Gonzalez. In her presentation, she will share essential tips for smartphone photography, focusing on how to maximize your phone’s camera settings and use creative techniques to turn simple plant snapshots into beautiful portraits.

Marie Astrid Gonzalez is an art director and photographer based in Los Angeles, with over 25 years of experience in creating marketing campaigns across diverse industries, including advertising agencies, media companies, and the environmental sector.

Gonzalez holds a BFA in Photography from the Rhode Island School of Design and an MFA in Graphic Design from the University of Illinois Chicago. Her work has graced the cover of the L.A. Times and is part of the permanent collection at the Wende Museum. Her passion for horticulture began during her formative years visiting her grandparents’ farm in Puerto Rico, where she developed a deep appreciation for sustainable living and resourcefulness. This early connection to the natural world fuels her interest in capturing moments we often miss, and the personal connections between plants and their humans.

Currently, Gonzalez freelances for a diverse range of clients, bringing her expertise in creative direction and marketing to projects spanning from environmental conservation to commercial enterprises. Most recently, she served as the Creative Director at Theodore Payne Foundation, where she led the creative development of the nonprofit consumer-facing initiatives, educational resources, and signature events, such as the Native Plant Garden Tour.

We are looking forward to seeing examples of Gonzalez’ beautiful work and learning how we can make the most of our own garden photography. Please join us for the evening to experience this special presentation in person.

Host or Publisher Southern California Horticultural Society