Coordinating a Group Photo
Taking a large group photo requires a unique balance of patience, organization, leadership and a good sense of humor. The larger the group, the more difficult it is to capture and hold everyone’s attention. And while having the first row sit, the second row kneel and the third row stand is great for sports team, it doesn’t go over so well with a bridal party. But at least the bridal party expects to be taking a lot of group photos. What do you do when you’re trying to organize a group photo and the subjects are less than willing to sit tight and smile?
Here are a few ways to keep your group under control long enough to get the shot:
Remember that you’re in charge
Everyone is looking to you for direction. Don’t be afraid to tell people to move around (you can always physically guide them if need be) in order to compose your shot. Build the best shot you can! Create a center point that everyone can work around. They’ll trust your judgment.
Enlist Aid
Grab a couple of your subjects and turn them into frame “body guards.” If you’re trying to corral everyone within a specific space, place your helpers on the ends and tell them not to let anyone past.
Subdivide the larger group
Straight rows can look boring and stuffy. Mix it up with creating little pockets of three or four people that connect to each other. Have some people angle away from the group, but turn their face to the camera.
Tell them what’s going on
Don’t let the group be surprised when you start shooting. Capture everyone’s attention and let them know. Give them a countdown so they know when not to blink. Remind them to look at the camera and keep smiling until you say stop! If you want to give everyone a break, don’t let them leave! Tell them to relax but stay where they are.
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