family shoot posing advice 12 people

[g-money]

I have a family shoot this coming Sunday. There will be 12 people involved. I am going to their house so have never seen the location. They said they are old fashion and want more of the traditional look. Any advice on setting up for this many people. Other than some of the boring family shots taken at wedding this is the largest group shot will have done.

Greg

[droberts]

I would scout the location first and see if there is a setting that would accomodate that large of a group and give you good composure.
Discuss colors with the family ahead of time. You don't want to show up and 3 people are wearing canary yellow, 5 wearing bright red, 2 in all black etc...Try to set a color scheme ahead of time.
I know you said they are old fashion and want the traditional look, but try to get them out of the idea of the everyone set straight up with shoulders square to the camera arms to the side, and serious looks on their faces.
Get some angles to them, relaxed and natural poses, and tell them to not be afraid to touch each other.

You might show them some examples...
http://www.russellsphotography.co.uk/IMAGES/family.jpg

[g-money]

Thanks droberts. I don't think getting to the location in advance will be possible. The lady who booked me is from Il and her parents arelocated about 45 miles from my town. Family will not be in till the weekend. So I am going in totally blind and no I do not like that.

Great examples with what youve shown me. Thanks

Greg

[Yeoer]

It all comes down to location with groups. Can you control the background? thats the main question... if not you'll need to talk to the lady and find out what 'she' thinks is the nicest backdrop. Whites are great but not very traditional, a nice fire place is better...

[RogerAylstock]

Ask if someone there has a digital camera and can send you some pictures of the location. If outdoors, the time might make a big difference depending on the sun, etc.

[JubbaKing]

Keep heads evenly spaced and start with the mom and dad and work around them. Focus on getting every single person looking their best. IE: If they were the only ones in the photo would they look good?