How long would it take you to....

... shoot 10 groups of 25 people (teams) followed by an individual portrait shot of each member. Subjects will be standing for all photos (may sit one or two in front for group shots) - so no posing (as such) to worry about.

So each team gathers, has two/three shots taken - then moves over to a backdrop where they each have another two/three full length shots taken.

Everything controlled by helpers, all teams should be waiting "ready-to-go".

I'm trying to work out just how long this complete shoot may take. I've got some thoughts....

But what do you think?

TJ

How many photographers will be working this gig?

Erm... one, just me!

TJ

although the groups will be given a specific time-slot, and not all "waiting in line" at the same time

TJ

The largest block of time will be filled by taking the individual shots. My guess would be an hour per team as a minimum. That's assuming that everything goes perfectly. 1.5 hours might be far better for scheduling. Obviously, that would mean multiple days involved.

Thanks Skip, going throught the process in my mind tels me that it should take half that time, but, things never go the way you expect them.

I was hoping that I could get it done in a single day, but I guess splitting it over two sessions might be less of a strain on me!

TJ

That depends on how fast you set up and take down. If you have the lighting all worked out, then about 1 1/2 hours as suggested. Do all groups first and then do individuals lined up. Let them observe what you are looking for from the first "examples" you do. That way you don't have to reinvent the wheel every time they come up to bat. (Did I use enough metaphors?)

Thanks Suzie. As each group is likely to be given their own "slot" - done to help ease congestion - I was thinking of doing the groups, then move them on to the individual shots - then their are good to go (literally) - before the next group comes in.

If I were to do all the groups first, I would have them all hanging around for the best part of the day. Oh, I dont know, what you're saying makes sense though.


Decisions, decisions!

TJ

8 chairs, filled first. Then load 7 crossed legged/kneeling in front while someone moves in the remaing members in the back row, standing.
While they are setting up, shoot a set of individuals. You need a BIG "X" on the floor, for them to stand on, so you dont have to worry about focus/depth of field.
Both cams on tripods.
Get your helpers to corale the teams from a holding area to the chairs/backdrop.
A whistle for attracting attention.
BE BOSSY AS HELL.
I would say, three hours tops.

Stairs are great for group shots. Any big steps in the front of the building?

bildeb0rg wrote in post #5683332
8 chairs, filled first. Then load 7 crossed legged/kneeling in front while someone moves in the remaing members in the back row, standing.
While they are setting up, shoot a set of individuals. You need a BIG "X" on the floor, for them to stand on, so you dont have to worry about focus/depth of field.
Both cams on tripods.
Get your helpers to corale the teams from a holding area to the chairs/backdrop.
A whistle for attracting attention.
BE BOSSY AS HELL.

Yes, I had intended on using a whistle, also the "X marks the spot" was in my plan also. Must admit, hadn't thought of seating the middle row (not sure whether having to add/remove chairs (as some teams will have fewer members) might be too much of a hassle. Might just stand the back row (on a "taped curved line" on the floor) have the middle row kneeling, and the front row sitting on the floor. I'll give it some thought though and discuss it with the helpers. Thanks

bildeb0rg wrote in post #5683332
I would say, three hours tops.

I was maybe thinking of around 5 hours - but can I last that long?

SuzyView wrote in post #5683898
Stairs are great for group shots. Any big steps in the front of the building?

No Suzie, unfortunately, no steps - that would have been ideal!

TJ

Having a bench or chairs gives you a fixed position to keep everyone static.
Having 8 gives you a constant width, give or take a player, so you can use fixed focal length.
Add or remove players from the front or back rows to accomodate everyone.
Ask me nicely and I'll help if you like...