your best big group shots

[inthegarden]

I really enjoyed the thread on "The evolution of the "Toogy" style group shot". They all involved pretty much just the wedding party - bride, groom, bridesmaids and groomsmen.
I got the thought to ask to see how some of you are shooting the big group shots - the ones with everybody and his mother in it. I can't say that I have taken one that I would call a "wow" shot.
I'd love to see some here to get some inspiration from.
Thanks!

[BEWITCHED]

my big group shot:

[inthegarden]

I like the idea of throwing the petals up in the air. Was that your suggestion? Thanks for sharing!

[inthegarden]

OK, I looked through some group shots. Location helps, I notice. Otherwise, maybe there's just not much you can do with big groups but to grin and bear it?? Looking back, though, I noticed that some people aren't so determined to have the "get everyone you can in it" and keep the groups shots in smaller segments. I wonder if we could have some influence in those choices. Well, here's one of my big groups shots . . .

[inthegarden]

Well, I can see this isn't a very popular topic. I just discovered the "similar threads" list below. Some good advice there . . .
I was hoping to see some actual images - I'm sure there have to be some from interesting angles, locales, etc.?? Or maybe it's just too painful to go there, and everyone cringes as much as I do when it's time for the big group shots . . . just grin and bear it?!

[Bobster]

largest group we've shot
http://www.rjwhetton.co.uk/photos/wedding/161Wedding05.jpg

[megansmom]

When I was a second shooter for a photographer, we did this once and the couple loved this picture. If you are in a church that includes a balcony, you can talk to the officiant beforehand to have the entire church audience turn around and look up at the photographer in the balcony to get the entire church shot. This is usually done after the kiss and before the couple walk down the aisle together. That way, you get a view of everybody's faces. Sorry, don't have the picture to show since it was shot with the primary photographer's camera.

[sierra_nova]

We always do a big group shot after the ceremony with all the guests. The secret to this one, I think, is height.

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h293/dougie_jam/thumb1.jpg

Cheers,
Naomi

[inthegarden]

Now that is a group of epic proportions! Height definitely works when it's available.
Bobster, I like how you made the separate grouping.
Thanks for sharing.

[howzitboy]

when doing big group shots, i always tell everyone "if you cant see me, I cant see you!"

[MarkAnthonyPhotography]

[html][/HTMhttp://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r133/mprynkiewicz/Debra_Michael267.jpgL]

[LuisE]

Here is mine..

[inthegarden]

[html][/HTMhttp://i143.photobucket.com/albums/r133/mprynkiewicz/Debra_Michael267.jpgL]

Fun shot! If you have to shoot such a huge group, you might as well have some fun with it!

[inthegarden]

Here is mine..

Thanks for sharing! I like your collage idea!