Harry P Leu Gardens - Winter Park FL

Saturday March 15, 2025


Orland Photo Group


Photography is a never-ending journey of learning and creativity, and this weekend, I finally took a step I had been putting off for years—I attended my first workshop with the Orlando Photography Group. The experience was nothing short of incredible, and I can't wait to share what I learned and captured!


The workshop was a floral photography composition class held at Harry P. Leu Gardens—a stunning botanical oasis in Orlando. The weather was perfect, the gardens were in full bloom, and the atmosphere was inspiring. I met some truly amazing people, each bringing their own creative perspectives to the session.


I’ll admit, I was nervous at first. I had signed up with Orlando Photography two years ago but never found the courage to attend a class—until now. Walking in, I felt unsure of myself, but by the time the workshop ended, I realized I had been nervous for nothing.


Exploring Composition & Light

The focus of the session was on flowers, structures, and composition—learning how to frame and capture floral subjects in different lighting conditions.


The group was small and intimate, consisting of four photographers and an amazing instructor who shared invaluable insights on capturing florals in both low-light and high-light settings. What made the session even more special was the collaborative nature of the group. Each photographer had their own unique approach, and I learned so much from observing their techniques as well.


What I Learned

This workshop pushed me creatively in ways I didn’t expect. I have always been drawn to dark, moody floral photography, but this class helped me embrace underexposure in a more intentional way. Instead of fearing the shadows, I learned how to use them to highlight the depth and texture of flowers, letting light reveal their most intricate details.


Additionally, I gained a new appreciation for angles and positioning. The instructor showed us how subtle shifts in perspective can completely transform an image, making ordinary flowers appear more dramatic or ethereal.


Photography & Results

Throughout the workshop, I primarily focused on floral photography, experimenting with light, shadow, and depth. While I didn’t capture anything unexpected, I was incredibly happy with the results. Every shot felt like a step forward in refining my style.


I’ve included a gallery below showcasing some of my favorite shots from the day!


Final Thoughts & Takeaways

Would I recommend the Orlando Photography Group to other photographers? Absolutely. This experience allowed me to learn, meet new people, and connect with like-minded individuals. Photography can sometimes feel like a solitary pursuit, but being part of a community—even for just a day—was both refreshing and inspiring.


And will I be attending more workshops? Without a doubt. I’m beyond grateful that I finally pushed myself to go, and I’m already looking forward to the next one!


For Those Considering a Photography Workshop

If you’ve been hesitant about joining a photography class or workshop, take this as a sign to go for it. Step outside your comfort zone. You never know what you might learn or who you might meet!


See My Work & Stay Connected

I’d love to share more of my journey with you! You can follow my work on Instagram: @ChrisArjune_photography


Check out my gallery below to see some of my favorite shots from the workshop!