Shadows, glare, reflections, white balance, images too dark - yeah those are all my problems. I can minimize the first 3 by going outside, but it does need to be overcast to eliminate the shadows and other problems you mention. That might be tougher for you in sunny Florida.
I bought several colors of heavy poster type paper to try different backgrounds. I've tried adjusting the white balance, using auto settings, using custom settings. It's just the camera is way smarter than I am (once I thought I heard it laughing at me). Thought about taking a class just to learn how to properly use it. But thinking about it is as far as I got.
I used Picasa to adjust the images but that had limited functionality and is no longer around. But it was free. Truth is I've just been too cheap to invest in Photoshop. The reason I don't update my Etsy site very often is because I hate taking the pictures. Much rather be making sawdust.
Photography is a constant discussion on the IAP forum. There are several resources in their library and many searchable conversations there. Take a look if you have not already.