Harford County Photography Group

Join us on Zoom for Next Level Photos for a safe, friendly, and fun way to improve your images. This will be a fun, entertaining, and educational review of our photos.

This month will be an open theme.

Instructions:

• Register for the critique on MeetUp by Noon on the day of the critique. Photos MUST be uploaded no later than 3pm, day of critique.
• Upload 3 photos via Meetup. (This gives all participants an opportunity to preview the photos being critiqued.) These photos must be in JPEG, GIF, or PNG format, be less than 15MB in size.
• In Meetup, scroll down until you see Photos - click on Add Photos - (if using mobile device - click on Select photos. If using computer - click on Upload Photos).
• Once photo has been uploaded, give photo a title as submitters will not be explaining their photos. The photos should speak for themselves.
• On mobile device - tap on photo - tap on 3 dots in upper right hand corner - tap on Add Caption - type in title - tap on check mark on keyboard. On computer - as you add photo you will be given the option to include a caption - click on Save Photos once done titling.
• Photos submitted by participants need to have been taken in the 3 months prior to the critique. We want to see current work / projects. We don’t want to see the award winning photo that was taken 10 yrs ago.
• Theme is open.
• If a participant’s photos have not been uploaded prior to the start of the critique session, that registered participant will be excluded from participating in the critique session.

Around 5 pm on day of critique, a Zoom link will be emailed to each registered participant. The actual critique will be held on a Zoom session from 7pm to 9pm. Please commit to staying for the whole session so we can enjoy and discuss our photography.

Participant submitters will not be explaining their photos. The photos should speak for themselves. When participants comment, they should always begin with a positive statement, before suggesting areas for improvement.

Our purpose is the help each other identify good practices and eliminate bad practices so we can improve our photography. This is a safe and friendly environment to help you improve.

LIMITED TO THE FIRST 9 PARTICIPANTS TO REGISTER

Join HCPG for our February Monthly Meeting.

We are excited to invite you to a special session dedicated to exploring the diverse world of photographic flashes! Whether you are just starting your photography journey or looking to enhance your skills, this event is designed to give you a comprehensive introduction to the various types of flashes used by photographers today.

Event Overview:

· Off-Camera Flashes: Learn how to use wireless and corded flash units for more creative control and dynamic lighting.
· Studio Flash Units: Uncover the power and versatility of studio strobes and monolights, perfect for professional settings and controlled environments.
· Specialty Flashes: Explore ring flashes, macro flashes, and other specialized lighting tools that can elevate your photography.
· Modifiers used to control the quality of flashes.

What Will Learn:
· A clear understanding of the differences between on-camera and off-camera flashes
· Demonstrations of key equipment
· Practical tips for selecting and using the right flash for any photographic situation
· Opportunities to ask questions and network with fellow photography lovers

This introduction is perfect for hobbyists, aspiring professionals, and anyone interested in mastering the art of photographic lighting. No prior experience with flash units is required—just bring your curiosity!

Don’t miss this illuminating opportunity to expand your photography toolkit and take your images to the next level. We look forward to seeing you there!

Gold members attend for free. Silver or new members $5 at the door. Doors open at 6:30 pm, meeting starts at 7:00pm.

Join HCPG as we study the techniques and equipment for macro photography at the breathtaking Howard Peters Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Gardens, located in the heart of Baltimore. This historic conservatory, featuring a diverse collection of exotic plants and vibrant floral displays, offers endless opportunities for stunning photography.

Grand conservatory in botanic park with 0.5-acres gardens & 5 greenhouse areas constructed in 1888. Provides the opportunity to photograph a variety of flowers and plants in an historic venue.
This venue will give us various opportunities to study Macro Photography and Lighting. By using either flash, on camera flash or led lighting to better photograph various flowers. Learn how using light from different directions can change the mood of a subject.

This trip we will study the techniques and equipment for macro photography. Learn how to use simple accessories and lighting to change the look and mood of your photography.

Recommended Equipment:

• Macro lens, closeup rings, or closeup filter.
• On camera flash, remote (helpful but not required)
• LED light.

We will have some flashes, remotes and LEDs available for use. Canon and Sony macro lens will also be available.

Rawlings Photography Policy:
Garden visitors are welcome to take pictures of the gardens for personal use without a photo permit.

• Please respect the gardens.
• Do not stand in planting areas, move or remove plants, or pick flowers.
• Remain on grass or pathways. Keep our pathways accessible and safe for other garden visitors.
• Please do not climb trees or walls, and do not stand on the benches.
• Photography must not interfere with other visitors’ enjoyment of the Conservatory.
• Drones are not permitted in public parks or gardens without special permission.
• Tripods & monopods are permitted, except on weekends and special events. Keep equipment out of garden beds and planted areas.

Rain or Shine event. No refunds after February 12, 2026.

Cost: $20 for silver members. $15 for Gold Members contact Beth Tribe for discount code.

Ample free parking is available within Druid Hill Park near the Conservatory.

Prism shoots are usually free (unless otherwise noted) monthly outings where a location, theme or topic will be our starting point. The idea is to have all the photographers interpret the same theme but according to their own view or aesthetic. We all see things differently and it can be interesting to see which direction each photographer takes the month’s theme or topic. Photos will be shared on the Facebook group so everyone can see.

These outings are a way to help us see things from a different point of view and are led by Beth Tribe, Director of Media. This is a casual, fun, event to help you "see" and hopefully improve your photography.

*Theme will be announced at event.*

Equipment - bring your every day, walk around camera or cellphone.

Try to stick with one lens but feel free to bring filters, tripods/monopods or whatever makes you feel creative. Think about traveling light as you will want to explore the location. Some walking will be involved and ground may not always be level. Explore at your own pace.