Harford County Photography Group

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.

An HCPG Special Event!

The Board of Directors invites HCPG members to be heard. Help shape the group YOU want to be a part of.

We want to know what you need to know: what topics do you want covered at our monthly meetings; what locations and subjects do you want to see at our monthly photo ops; what can we provide to take your photography up a notch?

We want to hear from you, your ideas, your questions, and your concerns. In the immortal words of Jerry Maguire, "Help us, help you!"

Notice:
This is a special, FREE meeting of the HCPG General Membership. There will be No Charge at the door.