Photographing Groups

The Potomac Exchange with the Ambassador of Japan.  Set up, two rows and three lights

Photographing Groups

As an event photographer, photographing groups is an important function I do.  It’s a fun challenge to figure out where, and how to organize the group.  Half the time it’s a spur of the moment to do the shot.  Other times, there is some planning of where to stage it.  And the most important aspect is lighting.  If it is a big group, it is preferable to have additional lights, 2 or 3 is optimal.  You want to make sure shadows don’t hit on anyone.  And more importantly, the extra light allows more depth, so everyone is in focus.  

Strategies for getting exceptional Group Shots

1.      Composition.  Whether you are using rows, steps, or the sitting, kneeling, standing spontaneous group, make certain no one’s face is blocked.  People need to be in between shoulders of people in front of them.  Before I shoot, I look from my camera perspective to see everyone’s face.   

2.      Light.  Natural light is best, if possible, with fill flash.  Bounced light or flash with a diffuser helps to eliminate harsh shadows and contrast.  

3.      Interacting with the group, helps to keep people’s attention so they aren’t distracted or are not looking away.  

4.      Eye Level is fine, but using a ladder or some elevation helps when there is a large group.

5.      Posing tips: try to have everyone look natural and relaxed.  Men is the front row should button their jackets.  If the front row is seated, hand placement should look natural in lap. Grabbing people around the shoulders makes that person look wider and sometimes makes their  clothes look awkward. 

6.      ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS shoot more than one frame.  That avoids having a frame with someone with closed eyes.  

It takes patience, ability to manage people, being pleasant, keeping people engaged with small talk and get it done quickly and efficiently.  

Ask me anything: larrylevin@verizon.net  Visit my website www.LLLevin.com

A few more images: Click on the images to see larger size.  

Chance group of top scientists, luckily they knew me and were happy to be in this highly esteemed group photo. One light bounced. 

Family in backyard, all natural light.  It was fun to keep everyone's attention. 

On a tour of a hotel, "Let's take a group shot"  Fun, natural, and not your usual situation. 

VP Pence with students.  Students were standing by so the VP just on in place. 

Consular Corp Gala shot from the balcony, one light.