Expanding Skills

I've joined the local LA Arboretum which allows admission to other local gardens. So in the last 10 days I've taken photo walks to the Arboretum, Descanso Gardens and the South Coast Arboretum with two goals in mind. One, scout shooting locations at each in case I happen upon someone who would like to model for me. I haven't really done many live model shoots and want to expand my skills in that area. Second, I'm building my skills and portfolio/archives at the same time and learning more about my capabilities and those of my camera.