Attending Sam Hurd's EPIC Workshop at Lavender Lake in Orlando

As a wedding photographer based in Jupiter, Florida, I’m always seeking opportunities to grow and refine my skills to better serve my clients. Recently, I had the privilege of attending an incredible workshop led by Sam Hurd, one of the most innovative wedding photographers in the industry. The workshop took place at Lavender Lake, a stunning wedding venue in Orlando, which served as the perfect backdrop for a day filled with creativity, learning, and inspiration.


Why I Chose the Sam Hurd Workshop


Sam Hurd is known for his unconventional techniques and unique approach to storytelling. His use of “prisming” and other creative in-camera effects has set him apart in the wedding photography world. As someone who is constantly striving to push boundaries and deliver extraordinary images to my couples, I knew this workshop would offer insights that could take my work to the next level.


The Venue: Lavender Lake


Lavender Lake in Orlando is an enchanting venue that blends natural beauty with a serene lakeside setting, perfect for weddings and intimate celebrations. With its lush greenery, wide-open spaces, and tranquil water views, it provided the ideal environment for the hands-on, real-world scenarios we explored during the workshop. The diversity of shooting opportunities at Lavender Lake also helped me see new ways to utilize different spaces at venues across Florida, including those I frequently shoot at in Jupiter.


Key Takeaways from the Sam Hurd Workshop


  1. Creative In-Camera Effects: One of the standout aspects of Sam’s teaching is his ability to create stunning effects right in the camera, with minimal reliance on post-production. From prisming to free-lensing, Sam demonstrated how to use these techniques to add a sense of wonder and dimension to wedding photos. I’ve already begun incorporating these methods into my work, offering couples in Jupiter more dynamic and artistic images.
  2. Story-Driven Photography: Sam is a master at creating images that tell a story. He emphasized the importance of capturing not just the big moments but also the subtle, in-between moments that reflect the couple’s true emotions. This approach aligns perfectly with my goal of creating timeless, heartfelt images for my clients. Whether it’s a quiet glance or a burst of laughter, I’ve become more attuned to these fleeting moments, allowing me to capture more authentic and meaningful wedding day memories.
  3. Lighting Mastery: Working with natural light and adding artificial light sources when needed was another crucial part of the workshop. Sam’s ability to blend different light sources seamlessly, especially in challenging conditions, was a game-changer for me. Whether shooting during golden hour at an outdoor ceremony or working with dim reception lighting, I now feel more confident in my ability to create beautifully lit images in any setting.
  4. Streamlining Workflow: One of the unexpected but highly valuable parts of the workshop was learning about Sam’s streamlined editing workflow. Wedding photography requires not only creativity but also efficiency, and I left the workshop with practical tips on how to manage large wedding galleries quickly without sacrificing quality. This means faster turnaround times for my couples without compromising the polished, fine-art aesthetic they expect.


How This Workshop is Shaping My Wedding Photography in Jupiter, Florida


Since attending the Sam Hurd workshop, my photography style has evolved in exciting ways. I’m incorporating more creative techniques into my Jupiter weddings, giving couples a truly unique and personalized experience. Whether it’s through artistic in-camera effects or more thoughtful storytelling, I feel more equipped than ever to capture the emotions, beauty, and joy of each wedding day in a way that feels fresh and timeless.


Why Lavender Lake is a Perfect Wedding Venue


For couples searching for a picturesque wedding venue in Orlando, Lavender Lake offers an intimate, romantic setting that is perfect for any celebration. The lush grounds, serene lake views, and rustic charm make it an ideal location for both ceremonies and receptions. Whether you’re looking for a lakeside backdrop for your vows or a cozy, nature-filled atmosphere for your reception, Lavender Lake provides endless possibilities for stunning wedding photos.


Conclusion: A Transformative Experience for My Wedding Photography


Attending the Sam Hurd workshop at Lavender Lake was a transformative experience. The techniques I’ve learned are already enhancing the weddings I photograph in Jupiter, from creative lighting and composition to capturing those small, intimate moments that make each wedding unique. I’m excited to bring this new level of artistry to my future clients and continue delivering beautiful, authentic wedding memories.