outdoor group portrait

[kasswall]

i am new to this forum, so if you all have answered this a million times i am sorry for asking the million and first time:D. i am just getting into photography, but my family wants to do a family picture and i figure i can do this as a starter. so i am in need of some knowhow as to what type of setup to use for an outdoor family shot. lighting, general compositional tips, and any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated. i am planning on shooting with my xsi and a 24-105L with a 430exII. should i be using more than just one mounted flash? if i need some other lighting equipment what are some recommendations? do i have to spend $300 to get a good tripod?
also, i am going to be in the shots. is that too hard to pull off? i have a remote, so that is not a problem, but if anyone has done this before, i would love some input. thanks a lot!

[tim]

Just arrange the group so you can see everyone, but the camera in P mode, and take the photo. Flash isn't needed, if it's a group photo it only lights the front row, usually. If you need flash stand back and zoom, that decreases the relative distances and will illuminate people more evenly, but won't work on a sunny day.

You'd be better off with a tripod and a person to push the button for you.

[dompap21]

Look for even shade for the photo and use your on-camera flash as fill. Have family members wear same color clothing.