Large Family Shot advice

[adblink]

when shooting a group of approx 17-20 people outdoors, would is the key things you look for in your surroundings?

like would you look for flatground or a hill/slight grade?

also, is using a UWA lens (on a crop) too much for these shots? Out of my lenses below i think I may be forced to use my 28-135mm.

i know i hear most people say shoot in the shade, should I do that even not using strobes?

[DAMphyne]

If the background is wonderful and will add to the quality of the photo, go for flat ground.
If the background is bad, go for flat ground and shoot from above(step ladder) to limit the view of the background.
A hill is very hard to shoot groups, unless the hill is shaped like a V, so you can be at least level with the middle row of the group.
I always try to shot from a high level, aimed down at the group, it's easier to get all the faces when they're looking up instead of through the shoulders of the person in front of them. And it provides a better focus plane.
Use your strobe.

[adblink]

really? i dont have very much practice with my strobe, especially in a setting like this so i'm not sure if I would be able to use it effectively

I'm guessing I would just shoot in Av and use the flash in ETTL for fill flash (bare bulb straight on?)

[PhotosGuy]

i dont have very much practice with my strobe, especially in a setting like this so i'm not sure if I would be able to use it effectively Test. See post #3
Tips for Xmas Ball Please (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=419399)