I think I need help...

[daystar]

I'm a newbie/beginner photographer and I mainly use my kids as guinea pigs and shoot things around me. An aquaintance has inquired as to whether I do group photography because her family is coming in November and they want pics but don't want to go to a studio or professional (I think it's money related :rolleyes:). I think it would be a good opportunity for experience but I don't think I've got the right equipment (see gear list below). And no place locally rents. So what do you think? Should I attempt this or let it go? Is my gear enough to do the job? I think outdoors would be an option (for lighting) but I don't know what time of day this "get together" is supposed to be.

Thanks!

[tim]

No harm really, given they don't want to pay anyone to do a professional job you'll probably be better than someone with a p&s digital.

[Edbee]

Look around for some good group poses and be sure to find a good background. I did one the other day and was very unhappy with the results. They did a semicircle pose which I do not like and the background was poor. Both things were my fault and could have been avoided with some effort on my part. BTW every one liked the picture.

[AssassinJN]

Go for it! Your 30D + 50mm can put out fantastic shots on a budget and the 28-135 would also do a great job if you need more flexibility. The only thing that you might want to consider (since you'd probably want to get one eventually anyway) would be a better flash. But even the popup flash on the 30D should be good for filling in the shadows, just make sure you turn it down a good bit (-1.5 would be a good place to start).

The tips above are a good starting point, but also think triangles (for layout of people) and the rule of thirds and you will have a good starting point. Also mix it up! If you're outside then see if they have a ladder (or bring one if possible) and shoot from high, or get down low. Have fun and it will show.

[SuzyView]

Don't think about studio stuff, you don't need it. Find a nice spot outdoors, in good light, but no in direct sunlight and you're good. Take time to learn the focus for a group, smaller aperture for longer depth, and you'll be fine.

[Valjoy]

I agree with Suzi...find a nice location ..local parks , gardens, lakes or even a farm can all make great backdrops for photos. Definately look for somewhere that has shade..it will make your job a lot easier.
Before any shoot I go to the site and try to envisage the shots I would like to take and where best to take them....not sure how many you will be photographing but several of my clients like the ones I take with a picnic blanket .....or with everyone around the childrens play area...eg some sitting on swings and others hanging onto swing and leaning on the frame of it.
The gear you have got will do fine...I did my 1st wedding with 18-55is and the 50 1.8. good luck cheers Val

[daystar]

Thanks everyone for the advice and tips ~ greatly appreciated!! :)

This is a friend of my parents and my mom recently spoke to her to get a few more details. Apparently they just want a group photo of their family (13 of them I think) because it will be a while before they get together again and it will be at their house which I'm thinking is on the river so that may provide some good outdoor background ideas.

I'm glad to know some of you think my exisiting gear is sufficient as my dear loving hubby has cut me off from buying anymore at the moment. :p I do have an inexpensive tripod and my dad has a much nicer one so that is at my disposal as well which may prove to be helpful.

I'm really hesitant doing this (lack of confidence and experience) but I gotta start somewhere, right?

Thanks again!

[caught14]

Go for it! You've got plenty of good gear.

If you can, try to suggest they do the shots later in the afternoon when the sun is low and the light is soft. If you have to shoot during the middle part of the day when the sun is high overhead, just make sure you look for open shade*.

* In case you don't know what open shade is, it's just shade that doesn't have something directly overhead. For example, instead of being directly underneath a tree, stand out in the open but in the shadow of the tree. This will eliminate hot spots and squinting if you position your subjects appropriately.

Most importantly look for good light. Good light trumps a good background. However both are important for a great photograph. Good luck and enjoy the opportunity!

[footballdude2k3]

the gear is deffinately enough as long as you have the eye for the good stuff, good luck!

[cntry]

Evening light or early morning light outdoors, grab the guinea pigs head to a few places that you think might work. Also if you feel the need don't forget: http://www.lensrentals.com (http://www.lensrentals.com/) Good people there.


I don't think I've got the right equipment (see gear list below). And no place locally rents. So what do you think? Should I attempt this or let it go? Is my gear enough to do the job? I think outdoors would be an option (for lighting) but I don't know what time of day this "get together" is supposed to be.

Thanks!

[RobNYC]

One of my favorite, inexpensive pieces of gear for group shots is a step ladder. It doesnt work for every situation of course. But I find that it is easier to see the people in the back (if you do multiple rows), plus when people look up it helps eliminate extra chins a bit (which they like), and finally, if you don thave the greatest background, it can eliminate some of that background sometimes.