Pleasing shot for formals?

[Matt30D]

Does anyone use a ladder or a step stool? Is it ok to shoot at level with the group....opinions?

[SamClarkPhotography]

I pack a 4-ft ladder in my car for weddings. I haven't used it yet, but my first wedding I would have cut-off a toe for one. Ideally, I would use it to get level with the wedding party in after-ceremony formals if they're on a stage, and for group photos.. ya know, the wide-angle high-vantage-point type.

[sapearl]

Hello again Matt - yes, I have a small lightweight 20" folding ladder that has two steps. The extra little elevation can often go a long way in keeping "back row heads" from disappearing in large groups.

There is nothing wrong with shooting at level - I do that much of the time when there is just a single row of people

Does anyone use a ladder or a step stool? Is it ok to shoot at level with the group....opinions?

[Big Mike]

Getting up on a ladder can be great, especially with bigger groups (both bigger in terms of number of people and the size of the people). But it's a PITA to haul a ladder around with you, especially on a busy wedding shoot. Here is where an assistant or 2nd shooter can be a huge benefit.

[razyl]

Use a chair or climb a wall.....i've taken some from a roof before :) You can also focus and then raise your hands above your head. I dont think you need to get the 'perfect' group shot with everyone in it, just an idea on who was there is good.

[tim]

I have a folding ladder, it's about 1 meter tall when it's standing up. I consider it essential.

[SuzyView]

I also will be taking a step ladder with me from now on. Sometimes I can't get the 80 people in without doing something unnatural. So, I have one in house (I'm short).