Hello. I live in Coral Gables (metropolitan Miami). I've found that being in a small group of like-minded photographers greatly enhances my experience on field days. I've been thinking about starting a Yahoo or Google group where "locals" (and perhaps people planning visits to the area) can announce their plans for a given day and then exchange email with others who might want join up. I'd appreciate any feedback: Likely or unlikely to work?, good or bad idea?, etc. My usual local places to shoot in the dry months are ENP (main entrance and Shark Valley), Wako and Green Cay. When my energy levels are high and the season is right, I don't mind drving as far as Venice, Canaveral or Ft. De Soto.
Hey David, I agree that sometimes having buddies around is a fun way to socialize and photograph at the same time! There is large group of people from Florida that frequent BPN....perhaps also posting this in the U.S. South East forum would generate some local interest? Good luck!