Large group photos

[Digimo]

My family wants me to shoot some group photos at Christmas. This will be inside with a fireplace backdrop. There will be about 25 to 30 people. Does anyone have any ideas as to the best way to do this? There will be probably 2 rows of people with the size of the room. Any suggestions to do or not to do would be appreciated greatly. Thank you.

[kasw3670]

a small step ladder to make sure you get everyone in. test shots at different mid apertures. start at 5.6 and go up to about 9.0 and see what works out best for you, then take the 'match winner' :-)

[Digimo]

Thanks Kwame. I hadn't thought about the stepladder. I will be sure to do that.
And you gave me a good place to start on apt. setting.
Thanks

[KHedquist]

While I am not an expert on portraits, I think there are some key elements to remember for this type of shot.

First have a plan. To get that many people ready at the same time is tricky, especially if there are small children.

Sub group in families. That way others can figure out who belongs to whom. Also vary head heights for interest use triangles.

Then then shoot way more than you think you need. Somebody will always pull a face etc.

Good luck and have fun.

Kevin

[Digimo]

Thanks Kevin for the pointers. The groups is a good idea to remember who is whose. I want to try a shot of everyone but will have to shoot a lot as you said since there will be 8 kids under 8. I have six grandchildren and one of my brothers has two. This will be the first time we will all be together for Christmas since my folks passed away in 2002 and 2003. Thanks so much.