? about taking pictures of large groups

[Littlegirl]

Headed to my nephews wedding tomorrow (very low budget so I've been asked to be the photographer). I have a new Canon S5 IS and am still learning so plan to shoot in Auto mode quite a bit. I am concerned about doing group shots. I've seen others have issues with getting EVERYONE in focus with large groups. How do I prevent that from happening?

Thanks!

 

[handicap18]

With PnS & Bridge camera's (like your S5 IS) you don't have as much of an issue with deep depth of field because of the tiny lenses they have.

There is a formula to calculate how to get deep depth of field, but I haven't used it since high school photo class. Typically you'll want a smaller f/stop (since f/stops are fractions, the bigger number is actually a smaller hole; 1/8 is smaller than 1/4. Therefore f/11 is smaller than f/5.6).

I don't know the f/stop range of the S5, but you'll probably want to try for f/11. I would do the shot outside during the day if possible because the smaller the f/stop the less light that is being let in. So you'll need a good flash or good outdoor light.

A lot is going to depend on how large the group shot actually is. I've seen some where it had everyone that was invited. The photographer got up on a ladder and took the shot outside. Came out very nice.

If its smaller groups in 2 or 3 layers deep and your indoors, then bump up your ISO and try to find a spot that has a LOT of light.

Without actually being there and knowing the lighting conditions and the number of people, thats the best I can do.

Maybe others will have other info that could help as well.

 

[DizzyV6P]

Do the group shot outside if possible. With the S5, unless its REALLY bright indoors, that little flash is going to be useless.

Check out this link for lots more S5 tips.
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=15

 

[gruZ]

I had issues with group shots - invariably someone has their eyes closed or is not smiling when everyone else looks great. I read somewhere to have everyone close their eyes and frown - then on the count of three open and smile - it has helped me get everyone's expressions coordinated.

Either that or take a bunch of group shots and then post process / combine them so the best expressions are on one frame!

 

[Experiment_626]

Without question, I'd prefer to take such a shot outdoors (unless it is night). And it is a rule of thumb that the more people there are in one shot, the greater the chance that someone will have his eyes closed or his mouth open when the shutter is clicked. The more people you have in the shot, the more backup shots you should take. Before you take the first shot, warn everyone not to bolt after the first shot. Remember that you, as the photographer, are in control at that point -- and don't be afraid to assert that control.

SSB

 

[DueyDooDah]

Personally, I would not use auto mode. I would use P. Mainly to ensure the flash did not go off (if there is plenty of light, this may not be an issue). If there were shadows in the faces (such as the group under a tree), I'd try to find a bright light to use as a fill light to ensure the shadows don't black out the faces. I'd use the light somewhere off to the side of the camera, within a couple of feet but not right over the camera. As these are wedding pictures, you want the best lighting you can get.

 

[DizzyV6P]

Home Depot clamp work lights using true white bulbs anyone? Nothing beats the poor man ghetto-fabulous studio light set-up..lol. Go ahead...laugh. It works in a pinch

 

[dr_zero]

Home Depot clamp work lights using true white bulbs anyone? Nothing beats the poor man ghetto-fabulous studio light set-up..lol. Go ahead...laugh. It works in a pinch

Nothing wrong with that setup its more than many have starting out

Check out a free book called tinkertubes for some other building guides also.
http://www.software-cinema.com/page/tinkertubes

 

[handicap18]

Home Depot clamp work lights using true white bulbs anyone? Nothing beats the poor man ghetto-fabulous studio light set-up..lol. Go ahead...laugh. It works in a pinch

This is what I use for my "studio portraits". I have 2 extra tripods so I clamp the $10 work lights to the tripod and bam... instant-studio. Usually I use 75 watt true white bulbs.

 

[DueyDooDah]

OK, now you guys tell me. I just received my 'Impact IMFL7508K Tungsten Three Flood Light Kit, 8' Stands ' from B&H. Three lights and air-cushioned stands. Cheap, but not as inexpensive as you guys suggest.

 

[handicap18]

I can't find it on Home Depot's web site, but did find them on another site:

http://www.brandsonsale.com/clamp-on-work-light.html

Home Depot has 2 sizes. Not sure what the size is in the link above. I have one of each size. Now that I think about it, IIRC, the smaller one was $9 and the bigger one was $11.

In my Home Depot, they are not in the light dept. They are with the extension cords.