Quintuplets Car Wash

[clockdoc]

Here is a fun little shot that at first glance looks like it may have been done with layers in Photoshop. I did try it first in Photoshop but cutting out all the individuals was tedious and lacked the proper reflections in the car. What I used was a free download from Microsoft called "Group Shot." This application can be a lifesaver if you have to shoot a group of people and end up with a small "glitch" (people blinking, turning their head, not smiling, etc.) in each shot. Using Group Shot, you can create a composite easily and quickly by selecting those "heads" to be added to the master composite. I used that same approach here by shooting 5 separate images of me washing the car (Sony F707 on a tripod and using the self-timer.) I then selected each position and combined them in a master composite. Give it a try!
I'll be happy to try and answer any questions you may have about the shot or the software.
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8359753@N07/507823864/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/200/507823864_d91dda2275.jpg" width="500" height="334" alt="carwash_composite" /></a>

[Angela]

You must be a hat person.

This is great! At some point I may even give it a try.

[Digidave]

You forgot something!:D I'll be checking this out for sure. Thanks for the sample. Very cool!

http://research.microsoft.com/research/downloads/Details/b215d477-9116-4708-a543-7ca498e6c2eb/Details.aspx

[Saralonde]

Really interesting! I bet a lot of people here will give this a try.

[Teewinot]

clockdoc...very neat indeed. Thanks for sharing!

On a side note, I would like to say that in the short couple of weeks you've been a member of DPS you have made a significant contribution to this site....most notably you do an excellent job critiquing others' photos. I'm sure we can all learn something from your methods of analysis and giving advice, in addition to the knowledge you share. I look forward to seeing more of your own work and I'm glad you've joined us! :)

[clockdoc]

Hi Digidave,
Thanks for posting the link to Group Shots. I am still learning my way around the posting procedures and even forgot to post the photo initially. Hope many will give the program a try.

[clockdoc]

Hi Teewinot,
Many thanks for your kind words. I am happy to share what little I know. I still have much to learn about digital photography.

[Sime™]

I'll certainly give it a try, tomorrow (on the mac right now... mac+m$=eeek!) will post results :) Sime.

[purplepixie]

Wow - what fun! Tx :) for sharing

[Sime™]

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/visper/510656463/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/209/510656463_1ed6035eab.jpg" width="500" height="371" alt="whoa" /></a>

[DaveAdams]

What a great idea, well executed. I'm going to have to give this a try myself at somepoint.

Dave

[clockdoc]

Nice job on the coffee shot! How did you find the software to work with? Was it a bit easier than with other post production software? On occasion it takes a few tries to isolate properly what you want in the final composite. Thanks for posting your shot. Hopefully others will give it a try.

[Sime™]

Wasn't bad... here ya go... a step by step!

1. Take six photos from the same point of view (with you in them!)
2. Drop them all into "Group Shot"
3. Select the different bits from each picture you want to include.
4. Press go...basically!

That's about it...

- Katie just said (to my left) "A monkey could do that"... hmmm i'd like to see that!

[Potr8]

Hi,

Got time this morning to try GroupShot, but I have problem in composing the photos. You may see the problem (first picture on the left) in Green mark:
- I lost my hand holding the sofa.
- I lost my reflection on glass table.

I tried to change the sequence of adding the picture in composite, but I got the same result. Is it a software bug or I missed some steps ?

I give you my work with Photoshop (second picture on the right) for comparison.

Thanks.

[clockdoc]

Hi,
I am glad to see some folks trying the Group Shot application. I have had problems similar to yours when I first started using the software. What I have found is that much of the success of a smooth blend depends on how the original subjects are arranged and your use of the rectangles for areas selected. Try not to have portions you want to add to the composite overlapping or too close to each other. In Sime's case the use of his black shirt may be hiding some limitations of the software to properly merge images. If you have a look at my Carwash composite in the How I Took It forum, you can see that I tried to place myself well separated from other image positions. I also had to experiment with the selection box sizes. Perhaps Sime can chime in here with any problems he encountered from his first composite. The Photoshop rendition turned out well. I look forward to seeing your next composite.

[tigerlily]

This is a very cool bit of photoediting! They look flawless, and it sound like a lot less effort than doing it in photoshop! Love Sime's contribution too!

[Sime™]

Yup, ClockDoc..right on the money... The version of me getting water was chopped out by the version behind me, so I went back into the first version of the image and selected another bit to add to the overall compo...(a little bit of black t-shirt and some jeans) just to fill in the gap... Don't think the software is a "Serious tool" but it was fun... :)

[jinxworld]

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jinxworld/516542291/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/234/516542291_8b5dbd8de7.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="DSC_5714_edit" /></a>

I had a go at it. Used Photoshop though and not the software mentioned
Doesn't look like it on the photo, but I had fun makin' this.
I'll have another go....soon

[clockdoc]

Glad to see you are giving the technique a try. Can you share your work flow with Photoshop? Folks that are well versed in Photoshop or similar programs may find them easier, faster and better than group Shot. However, it is an easy program to learn for those not familiar with the more powerful post processing tools.
When using Group Shot, the process is a little simpler when the "individuals" are not as close together or overlapping. I liked your first try and am glad to hear you had fun doing it. Looking forward to your next one.

[Sime™]

Jinxy... good stuff!... but, you look so angry :) ...i'd be keen to know how you did it in PS too, i'm just starting out with PhotoShop... Sime

[jinxworld]

I'm terrible at doing tutorials and there's probably more than 1 way to get this done.
I'll do it again tomorrow and make some screenshots and will try to explain what I did :)

[Sime™]

I'm terrible at doing tutorials and there's probably more than 1 way to get this done.
I'll do it again tomorrow and make some screenshots and will try to explain what I did :)...Brilliant!... many thanks, owe you a coffee.

[hockeynut]

My very first post to any forum. I saw the car wash picture and was intrigued by the "Group Shot" software. My son thinks it's a kick as well. This is an attempt at it with my son as the entertainment. As you can tell...I need to learn a few things but thought I would post it none the less.

Can anyone help me in re-sizing images and still maintaining a sharp image? Also, why does this attachment appear as a thumbnail and not bigger like the other posts? Any and all help is appreciated.

Thanks!

[Sime™]

Hockneynut!.. welcome aboard... and with a cracking shot to start, fun software that hey. (i'm really quick at making tea now, as you can see from up above there somewhere) ..and your son is VERY rock!

What are you using to resive images at the minute? And i'm thinking that the reason your pic attached as a thum as opposed to a larger image would be that a lot of people use flickr / photo hosting websites to upload pictures to and then copy some code across that puts the picture into your post. Do you have a flickr (http://www.flickr.com) account or something along those lines?

[clockdoc]

Hi Hockeynut,
I am so glad that you tried the Group Shot software. I think you did an excellent job with your first effort at using it. I found it very helpful in doing a neighbors Christmas card photo. With 4 little boys, each shot had someone blinking, yawning or otherwise making the shot unuseable. With Group Shot it was a breeze to make a good composite of the whole family. That's when I got the idea for the carwash photo.
Sime covered the posting question you asked. Before joining, I had never used flickr but found the tutorial at the beginning of this forum an excellent guide. I use the "medium" size images when I post so that viewers can get a quick look and then click on the image to go to the flickr site for a larger image as well as some EXIF data (shutter speed, f/stop and so on.) Welcome to the group! I look forward to seeing more of your work.

[scrivna]

I made these a lil while back, just havin a bit of fun too. Loving everyone elses shots!

[hockeynut]

Sime....thanks for the post and info we have discussed....much appreciated!

[hockeynut]

Clockdoc.....thanks for the post......I will try a few things you have mentioned and post some more photos. Someone is bound to like one of them!

[jinxworld]

here goes...

open images in PS
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jinxworld/520568452/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/191/520568452_b141eef4a1.jpg" width="500" height="388" alt="multiplicity-1" /></a>
copy 1 into the other
now you have 2 layers, 1 photo each
i set the top layer to 80%, so you can see the layer below (marked yellow)
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jinxworld/520600291/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/235/520600291_4ca3b5e405.jpg" width="500" height="388" alt="multiplicity-2" /></a>
add a layer mask to the top layer (marked red)
make a selection of the person in layer one (marked green)
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jinxworld/520600473/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/196/520600473_db8a552f5a.jpg" width="500" height="388" alt="multiplicity-3" /></a>
when done, inverse the selection Ctrl+Shift+I
with the layer mask selected and the foreground colour set to white (marked purple)...press delete (on the keyboard)
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jinxworld/520600607/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/194/520600607_8a61a51ff1.jpg" width="500" height="388" alt="multiplicity-4" /></a>
press Ctrl+D to deselect everything
set the opcity back to 100
Done
Hope I got it right

It's easier doing it than writing it down

[Sime™]

I made these a lil while back, just havin a bit of fun too. Loving everyone elses shots!

Great stuff!... glad you tried it out. s

[Sime™]

here goes...:D

open images in PS
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/191/520568452_b141eef4a1.jpg
copy 1 into the other
now you have 2 layers, 1 photo each
i set the top layer to 80%, so you can see the layer below (marked yellow)
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/235/520600291_4ca3b5e405.jpg
add a layer mask to the top layer (marked red)
make a selection of the person in layer one (marked green)
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/196/520600473_db8a552f5a.jpg
when done, inverse the selection Ctrl+Shift I
with the layer mask selected and the foreground colour set to white (marked purple)...press delete (on the keyboard)
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/194/520600607_8a61a51ff1.jpg
press Ctrl+D to deselect everything
set the opcity back to 100
Done
Hope I got it right

It's easier doing it than writing it down :eek:

Right - will try that tomorrow...!! (having trouble focussing on screen.. must need sleep) many many thanks!... S

[jinxworld]

fixed my img problem in my tutorial-try (http://digital-photography-school.com/forum/showpost.php?p=23339&postcount=29)

[RandomConnections]

As usual, I'm late to the game. I've done cloning in Photoshop, but Groupshot makes this a snap. Here are my first two using Groupshot...

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/randomconnections/520585859/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/200/520585859_114cdd80cd.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="Tom Pool composite" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/randomconnections/520585197/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/234/520585197_f9e427a2cb.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Tom Ace of Aces composite" /></a>

Groupshot is great, but I don't see any way to fine tune the selection. You have to use a rectangle. It also saves at a lower resolution than I might like. Other than that, it's a great program, and it being free doesn't hurt, either.

[Potr8]

Random Connections,

Nice actions.... I like the interactive between you and you.
Who's the director?

Regards,

[xxpinballxx]

i tried a fast one this morning and its great! So easy to use if you havea remote and a tripod which most of us do. I cant believe its free! I plan on doing a real envolved one over time some physical changes. I have a room I am not using at all and I am going to put the tripod in there and get a before then get my diet and exercise going this summer again lose a few pounds and ad take some pics along the way....this is a great find and thanks for the post!
here is my 5 minute one......
http://a874.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/31/l_597840a34cba476d5560c701ba4eaf69.jpg

[Sime™]

xxpinballxx, RandomConnections... great pics!... going to have to do another one of these... lots of fun...

[s9am_me]

cool shots everyone! Can't wait to try this out. Going to fool everyone to thinking I have a twin brother.. mwhahahaha

EDIT: Here's my quick rendition.. this program is so easy to use

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1195/536984539_11617e48d1.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1323/539770736_9a2afc41b6.jpg

[winterminute]

Alright, this looked like too much fun so I had to give it a go. I just went to the park and started shooting. When I got done with final editing, I hadn't really taken a step back to see the big picture. But the first thing my wife said when I showed it to her was "What's that? Your boy band album cover?" and suddenly I realized what a dork I was, but nonetheless I had fun doing it.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1376/636508536_ce38fc179c.jpg

[Digidave]

But the first thing my wife said when I showed it to her was "What's that? Your boy band album cover?" and suddenly I realized what a dork I was, but nonetheless I had fun doing it.

You just tell your wife "A mans gotta do what a mans gotta do".:D You did an excellent job! Very well done!:)

[clockdoc]

I am pleased to see that so many have enjoyed trying this technique. Did you use the Microsoft Group Shot application that I originally discussed or another program like Photoshop to ake the composite. Nice work!

[RandomConnections]

"Boy Band Album" - I love it!

My boss now wants me to photograph him in every seat in around our boardroom table.

[wattsbw2004]

Saw this while at work an figure i would give it a quick try. Very easy prog. and I look forward to doing it more in the future for crazy shots like this.
P.S. I'm not sure who won the game but by the looks of it I think that I was winning.

<a href="http://imageshack.us"><img src="http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/6061/socomgroup1of1eb3.jpg" border="0" alt="Image Hosted by ImageShack.us"/></a><br/>Shot with <a href="http://profile.imageshack.us/camerabuy.php?model=HP+Photosmart+R960++%28V01.00% 29d&make=Hewlett-Packard">HP Photosmart R960 (V01.00)d</a> at 2007-06-30

[flomaster]

oh oh can I play too?

here are a couple I have done
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8729478@N02/536667771/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1292/536667771_2429d0f224.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="forklift-comp02" /></a>

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8729478@N02/536652859/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1194/536652859_5fc32fbde7.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="same object multiplied" /></a>

these are fun. done with my point and shoot pentax optio W10. I'll have to try some with the new Nikon D-80

[clockdoc]

I had shot several images of our pastor during this presentation. Since he was in different positions during the talk, I combined three shots into one using Microsoft's Group Shot software application.
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8359753@N07/952860845/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1124/952860845_0db9a13d28.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="John_teaching_res" /></a>

[epeyton@tampabay.rr.com]

Hey CD do your or anyone know if this download would work for windows Vista??:eek:

[clockdoc]

It is a small application (1.3MB) that came out in 2006 and can be found at this link: http://research.microsoft.com/research/downloads/Details/b215d477-9116-4708-a543-7ca498e6c2eb/Details.aspx
It was initially written for Windows XP but may work with Vista. All I can say is download it and give it a try. Let us know how it works out. It is best to shoot all shots on a tripod and only have the person change positions. The program was originally designed to replace "heads" in a group shot where someone moved, blinked or otherwise did not look their best in the group shot. However, it can be used to make some interesting composites as you can see in the thread. Good luck!

[epeyton@tampabay.rr.com]

I downloaded the program with no problem but I can't get my pictures into it. Did you have any problems using it? Tonight I will try down loading it on my lap top which has xp.

[Gengus_Khan]

What a fun idea. I'll have to give this ago. Thanks for sharing.:)

[Silverfox]

<a href="http://www.zooomr.com/photos/tebphotos/2883040/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://static.zooomr.com/images/2883040_83bc3611a3.jpg" width="500" height="376" alt="My handsome twin_edited-2" /></a>

This looked like fun so I gave it a try. Took about 30 minutes from start to completion. I thought the software was very easy to use and produced very good results.

My wife mentioned something about vain and egotistical but I'm not sure what she was taking about.:)

[KLNYC]

Oh man thats pretty cool.
I detail cars in my other side job..Yup, been detailing cars for over 6 years already. Haha, let me see if I can see myself(5-6 of me) doing this on a BMW X5 this weekend. I'll keep you guys posted.

[TonyEccles]

Had to have a go myself!

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tonyeccles/819659775/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1248/819659775_8aa36b715f.jpg" width="500" height="334" alt="Quads" /></a>

[chelopr]

I did my homework too......

http://i70.photobucket.com/albums/i93/chelopr/chelopr5tuples.jpg

[porterd2nz]

Went cruising around the net and found this...

<a href="http://www.photoicon.com/galleries/8/"><img src="http://www.photoicon.com/images/724big.jpg" alt="Group Photo" /></a>

Even the pros are having a go at this... :)

[gnomeskull]

Don't you wish you could clone yourself sometimes? Like when you have to move. I'd have at least 5 of me.
One to pack stuff.
One to organize things once they were packed.
One to yell at the other clones to keep them motivated.
One to deal with telemarketers.
And one to drink a lot and pass out until it's over.http://gnomeskull.dyndns.org/journal/media/blogs/jason/potd/thumbs/2007_08_14_250.jpg (http://gnomeskull.dyndns.org/journal/media/blogs/jason/potd/photos/2007_08_14_800.jpg)

[jjohnsen]

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jjohnsen/547751612/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1223/547751612_f7d8e8e775.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="Photo a Day 242" /></a>
I did this one using the MS software, but I'd like to give it a shot with the Photoshop technique. The Microsoft software works gret when it works, but it seems to be really hit and miss for me. Sometimes everything turns out, other times the program can't seem to figure out how to put the layers together correctly.

[RonM]

I had shot several images of our pastor during this presentation. Since he was in different positions during the talk, I combined three shots into one using Microsoft's Group Shot software application.
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8359753@N07/952860845/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1124/952860845_0db9a13d28.jpg" width="500" height="357" alt="John_teaching_res" /></a>

Great Idea Clockdoc. I had to laugh when I looked at this shot and saw the words "Running Around" in the back ground. I haven’t had a chance to play with my new camera lately I just have to give this a try.

[Teewinot]

sorry to bump this thread, but i wanted to share that i finally tried this! and to my delight, it was super easy! here's my result using Microsoft Group Shot...

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/7845858@N05/1442943903/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1378/1442943903_03397e57f9.jpg" width="500" height="255" alt="threesixtyfive - day 23" /></a>

...by the way i won with a diamond flush...:D

[clockdoc]

Nice work! I am always happy to see what others can do with this little application.

[TW1NS]

Thought I might give it a try as well....
this is my daughter in the back yard....my next try with this will involve juggling pins...stay tuned!!!
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/addahle/FunAndGames/photo#5114703826072830946"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/addahle/RvsUB-xnA-I/AAAAAAAADi0/sEUSZ2OPFkE/s400/d.jpg" /></a>

[clockdoc]

You did well! It is much easier to control the subjects when they are not in close prozimity in the image. The little rectangle "selection" box doesn't always allow fine control when they are close together.

[Sime™]

Wanted to share... (this wasn't the ms application)

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/visper/1445225724/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1192/1445225724_79175fce90.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="threesixtyfive | day twentyfive" /></a>

[clockdoc]

Neat shot! I don't think a finished image like this could be done with the Group Shot. Well done!

[Sime™]

be fun to try though ;) thanks CD

[TW1NS]

Bored over my lunch hour...holding the remote and the pins was quite the feat!!!...not happy with the overexposure, but I love the effect!!!!
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/addahle/FunAndGames/photo#5114958868950091346"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/addahle/Rvv7_biBBlI/AAAAAAAADkI/kfZ-XWYwW8Q/s400/jugg2.jpg" /></a>

[MarlonT42]

:D Hahaha this is pretty cool...I'm going to try this when I get home. :)

[MikeM]

Speeding up the lab work...

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/12058571@N06/1450463095/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1012/1450463095_46bd1acb78.jpg" width="500" height="375" alt="Cloned Mike" /></a>

[clockdoc]

You did well with the overlap of the two subjects on the left. Some of my composites have ended up with strange configurations when subjects were too close in the separate shots. Thanks for sharing your shot with us.

[MikeM]

Good thing you didn't look up above the far left subject =]. The cabinet is crooked. Thanks, though.

You did well with the overlap of the two subjects on the left. Some of my composites have ended up with strange configurations when subjects were too close in the separate shots. Thanks for sharing your shot with us.

[xxpinballxx]

Hey you can't take responsibility for shoddy craftsmenship!
Love this effect and wish that they had a mac version.....

[dlthibo]

I've only just begun reading these forums and found this thread fascinating, so I downloaded the software. However, when I try to run it I get a message saying the "Evaluation period has ended". Does anyone know if this software is still available?

Dennis

[filemanager]

Bored over my lunch hour...holding the remote and the pins was quite the feat!!!...not happy with the overexposure, but I love the effect!!!!
<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/addahle/FunAndGames/photo#5114958868950091346"><img src="http://lh6.google.com/addahle/Rvv7_biBBlI/AAAAAAAADkI/kfZ-XWYwW8Q/s400/jugg2.jpg" /></a>

This is awesome!!

[clockdoc]

Hi Dennis and welcome to the group. Remove the malfunctioning program and try downloading it again from this site:
http://research.microsoft.com/projects/GroupShot/

Let us know how it works out.

[dlthibo]

Hi Dennis and welcome to the group. Remove the malfunctioning program and try downloading it again from this site:
http://research.microsoft.com/projects/GroupShot/

Let us know how it works out.

Well I uninstalled it, then downloaded the install file from the link and re-installed it. I still get the same message. :confused: I even tried installing it to a different partition to no avail.

Here's a copy of the message window that pops up when I attempt to run the software:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2031/2160438133_c2c81e3b7d_o.jpg
The interesting thing is when I was copying the message to post it here I accidently clicked outside the message window in the software and voila. Apparently I can use the software even though the message leads one to believe it's non-functional. Go figure.

[stoavio]

@dlthibo: That's because the software has created an entry in your system's registry. You may notice decreased funcationality using the software outside of its evaluation period. I can't personally attest to that however, as I'm using a mac and not a PC, but this is generally the case once the trial period has elapsed.

Has anyone found a comprable OS X alternative to Group Shot? While it's obvious the same effect can be reproduced in Photoshop with a little extra work, I'd be interested to know if a similar program exists for OS X.

I can't wait to mess around with this effect.

[dlthibo]

@dlthibo: That's because the software has created an entry in your system's registry. You may notice decreased funcationality using the software outside of its evaluation period. I can't personally attest to that however, as I'm using a mac and not a PC, but this is generally the case once the trial period has elapsed.

Has anyone found a comprable OS X alternative to Group Shot? While it's obvious the same effect can be reproduced in Photoshop with a little extra work, I'd be interested to know if a similar program exists for OS X.

I can't wait to mess around with this effect.

Well I wouldn't mind paying for the software (depending on the cost of course) if I could only find where to buy it. They sure don't make it easy to purchase - if it's still availailable at all. Otherwise, I'll try to mimic the effect in Adobe Photo Elements.

Dennis

[morfasie]

Nice one!!

[clockdoc]

Thanks for posting the error message and that you finally got it to work. Your note will help others who get the same error message. The program has been around a while and I don't know if they update it frequently. What operating system are you using?

[mrlee_1979]

Great shots everyone!
Here's a couple of mine i did with MS groupshot...

Getting up in the morning... my wife let me lie in on my day off while she took the kids to school, so i got up to a bit of mischief! haha

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mrlee_1979/2114033304/" title="Getting ready in the morning by mrlee_1979, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2184/2114033304_35d3ff437b.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Getting ready in the morning" /></a>

Car scare... waiting in the car nicely with my camera itching at my side and couldnt resist!

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mrlee_1979/2114032808/" title="Car Scare by mrlee_1979, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2017/2114032808_2edaf437d9.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Car Scare" /></a>

this app is soo easy to use, thanks clock doc!

[dlthibo]

Thanks for posting the error message and that you finally got it to work. Your note will help others who get the same error message. The program has been around a while and I don't know if they update it frequently. What operating system are you using?

I'm using XP. What I've been able to find on the internet leads me to believe this software was bundled with Vista. If anyone has Vista please comment.

Dennis

[dlthibo]

This is sorta off topic, but I thought some of you may enjoy this. While researching the Groupshot software last night I emailed MS customer service.

Here is my email...

"Is this software still available? When I download and install it I get a message saying the evaluation period has ended, but I cannot find a location to purchase it.

Dennis Thibodeaux
Sulphur, LA"

This is the reply I received:

"Hello Sulphur,

Thank you for contacting Microsoft Customer Service.

I understand from your e-mail that you receive a message “evaluation period has expired” when you install Microsoft Group Shot software.

Please note that the support for evaluation products is only available through no-charge online support services. Assistance from a Support Professional is available for only full versions.

Please visit the following websites for further assistance:

No-charge online support services include:

- Online Newsgroups where you can view and post information in an open forum
http://forums.microsoft.com/

http://msdn.microsoft.com/newsgroups/


Sulphur, if you are interested in product or upgrade information, please contact the Microsoft Sales Information Team at (800) 426-9400. They are available Monday through Friday 6:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. Pacific Time.

I hope the above information is helpful. If you have any other issues, please do not hesitate to contact us.
"

[Sime™]

M$ Support never fail to ...[sitting down?] Baffle, Confuse, Amuse, Provoke to wrath, Tease, Amaze, Destroy all belief in humanity, embarrass me as a support professional... etc etc etc...

you can download it from my website to avoid confusion... right click below and save as [this is a windows application only]

<a href=http://www.gtvone.com/dps/GroupShotSetup.msi>CLICK</a>

Hope that helps.

Sime

[clockdoc]

This gets more strange by the moment. I just tried to open Group Shot and got the same "expiration" message you cited earlier in the thread. I deleted to program from my computer, did a fresh download and installation and when I ran it, I got the same "expiration" message. However, I recalled the tip you mentioned about clicking outside the message box and I was then able to use the program. The plot thickens.....
It will be interesting to see if any Vista users comment on their experience with the program.

[dognutmom]

I'm still using XP .... and I had that same expiration message this morning. I had downloaded it a while ago but never used it until today and went through all of those steps as well (deleting, reinstalling) I just clicked outside the box, and voila, it worked. I've only used it for one pic, but didn't have any problems. Looks like a fun toy.

[vesitata]

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22278827@N04/2166034764/" title="3monkeys by vesitata, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2169/2166034764_23c6dc934d.jpg" width="500" height="334" alt="3monkeys" /></a>
Had some fun last night with it:)
Great program...
Also got the expiration message...dragged it out of the screen, and it's as if it wasn't even there:p

[photoqueen]

This is my first post. I thought this would be an awesome thing to do, and it's so easy!

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photo-queen/2166887853/" title="jeff sink chair by photo-queen, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2201/2166887853_84f732dc5f.jpg" width="500" height="374" alt="jeff sink chair" /></a>

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2201/2166887853_84f732dc5f.jpg

OK to re-edit and repost photo(s) only on DPS forums.
Otherwise, ASK!

[photoqueen]

and here's a second one. Did all of this within 15 minutes, including setting up and taking the pics. (not self portraits, i don't like being photographed).

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photo-queen/2166887603/" title="jeff at table by photo-queen, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2345/2166887603_3b88e18889.jpg" width="500" height="377" alt="jeff at table" /></a>

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2345/2166887603_3b88e18889.jpg

OK to re-edit and repost photo(s) only on DPS forums.
Otherwise, ASK!

[brainmuffin]

Is there something similar for a Mac?

[BEEZY]

Microsoft Group Shot software is a smart piece of software, but i, like many, have used Photoshop for my processing. I created one of myself, and my son went nuts, he said dad, you have to make one for me. That one turned into three. No worries, i had too much fun creating them. The challenge was keeping the lighting, and exposure of each shot, consistent.

[mackenziedawn]

Two second shoot handheld so things dont match up that great but I still think its cute.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/22328046@N02/2180151722/" title="triplets2 by mackenziedawn, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2211/2180151722_133069c972.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="triplets2" /></a>

[thisbejonas]

Came across this thread and thought it was neat so I had to give it a try. There are more examples I did on my flickr. Clicking outside the pop up box worked on mine also might try setting the date on your computer back to 2006 and then the box doesnt even come up.


<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/thisbejonas/2199319792/" title="need a light by thisbejonas, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2197/2199319792_a3c8fcbc5b.jpg" width="500" height="336" alt="need a light" /></a>

[jujitsu1]

Sime ur a star I've been trying for acouple of days to download this file with no joy . Clicked your link and it worked first time . Just need to find out how to use it .

[mrodgers]

Clicked your link and it worked first time . Just need to find out how to use it .
It will take you about 5 minutes to figure it out I'm sure. After that, it will take you about 30 seconds to process the photo, it's that easy.

I don't have anything to post as I never post my kids on the net. Let's just say my 2 girls turned out to be 2 sets of quadruplets in the living room. They had fun posing around the room with it.

I would post a pic of myself, but it was when I first got up in the morning before a shower just to test out the technique while eating breakfast. Not something you all would want to see. :D

[clockdoc]

In reply to Brainmuffin's question about this being available for a Mac, I am not aware of a similar application out there. If anyone else knows of one, please post a link. Thanks.

[keeny]

i tried using the link given (on page 1) to download Group Photo, but it has a message saying, the Beta period has expired. anyone else has a working copy / link where i can get this from, would be great.

cheers
keeny

[jujitsu1]

i tried using the link given (on page 1) to download Group Photo, but it has a message saying, the Beta period has expired. anyone else has a working copy / link where i can get this from, would be great.

cheers
keeny

Have you tryed the link that Sime as posted on page 9 . This is where i downloaded mine from . All you have to do is once its loaded is to move the expired message to one side and it then works great .

[dognutmom]

i tried using the link given (on page 1) to download Group Photo, but it has a message saying, the Beta period has expired. anyone else has a working copy / link where i can get this from, would be great.

cheers
keeny

Try clicking outside of that message box and then go to the program .... that has worked for me and some other people as well.

[AlicePalice]

Wow this is so cool, I love all your pics - would really love to give this a go, but have a Mac - boo!!

[jujitsu1]

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/hayleysboat/Moon/photo#5158263385679807474"><img src="http://lh3.google.co.uk/hayleysboat/R5XVODlZQ_I/AAAAAAAAAd4/6hXwNFe_ABA/s400/2%20of%20me.jpg" /></a>


This is my first go

[SmokedIronMade]

This gets more strange by the moment. I just tried to open Group Shot and got the same "expiration" message you cited earlier in the thread. I deleted to program from my computer, did a fresh download and installation and when I ran it, I got the same "expiration" message. However, I recalled the tip you mentioned about clicking outside the message box and I was then able to use the program. The plot thickens.....
It will be interesting to see if any Vista users comment on their experience with the program.

I have the program installed in Vista since you published the topic (some months ago) and today i tried it and got the expiration message, somewhat microsoft has ended it.

:mad:

[AndreaT]

What a fun idea!! It looks great!! Can't even tell you extracted yourself!! I will have to give it a try!!!

[Mstee4eva]

This is great, funny too! I will definately give it a try. Thanx Clockdoc

[mrveggie]

Here is my first try on multiplicity. Used photoshop, a bit crude but had fun doing it.

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n190/cnhs94/multiplicity.jpg

[Micah Olson]

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/hayleysboat/Moon/photo#5158263385679807474"><img src="http://lh3.google.co.uk/hayleysboat/R5XVODlZQ_I/AAAAAAAAAd4/6hXwNFe_ABA/s400/2%20of%20me.jpg" /></a>


This is my first go

This is a really weird photo though I like it! Almost looks like a mirror effect but then you look at the heads and they are in different directions!

[jujitsu1]

This is a really weird photo though I like it! Almost looks like a mirror effect but then you look at the heads and they are in different directions!

Thank for the comment . The hands are different too

[The_Steppenwolf]

Very cool. I've been meaning to try this technique for a while now. Just downloaded Group Shot and will give it a go this week. Thanks to all for the info.

[filemanager]

I found this:

http://research.microsoft.com/research/downloads/Details/b215d477-9116-4708-a543-7ca498e6c2eb/Details.aspx


The Group Shot Beta period has expired. We are currently considering several options to bring Group Shot back. Please stay tuned to this site for information on future releases.

[jujitsu1]

I know I shouldn't post too many photos in the same thread but had soo much fun doing this I had to post it sorry .


<a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/hayleysboat/Snow/photo#5158599580805279698"><img src="http://lh4.google.co.uk/hayleysboat/R5cG_MBgr9I/AAAAAAAAAeY/oTSPeX2usBE/s400/see%20no%20evil.jpg" /></a>

[Risonistic]

I learned how to do this with doc clocks help. Here is my submission.

[dognutmom]

Wow, you even changed your shirt for each shot! Looks good!

[henryiia]

My share using Photoshop:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3108/2318029310_02ae8ac99f.jpg

[GuyFromCanada]

Here's my go at this. I've done a couple, using photoshop and group shot. This one was done in photoshop, as it didn't work in group shot.

I had trouble keeping the colours identical in my shots, so I had some trouble combining them.

http://www.gfcstudios.com/dropbox/Reflection.jpg

[Mission]

Oh I can't wait to try this. Looks so good.
Some of these shots are amazing

[rmcbuckeye]

I definitely will have to try this out - I have a couple ideas so I am willing to give this a shot! :) Awesome technique..

[Mission]

My attempt

http://newcastlecruises.com//gallery/albums/On-a-Mission-Photography/Falcons.sized.jpg

[mseigafuse]

This looked like fun and having my son on hand as a victim (err, I mean volunteer) I had to give it a try - a lot of fun!

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mseigafuse/2324026697/" title="The Nicks by mseigafuse, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2057/2324026697_3643b0c0a7.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="The Nicks" /></a>

[Digidave]

This looked like fun and having my son on hand as a victim (err, I mean volunteer) I had to give it a try - a lot of fun!

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mseigafuse/2324026697/" title="The Nicks by mseigafuse, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2057/2324026697_3643b0c0a7.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="The Nicks" /></a>

The black socks gotta go!!:D The guitar he's holding, with the black socks, is missing the head, or whatever you call it. Pretty good job otherwise.

[Nathan W]

Any idea where I can get the software from? The website says the beta version has expired. It doesn't look like it is available anymore. :(

[jujitsu1]

Any idea where I can get the software from? The website says the beta version has expired. It doesn't look like it is available anymore. :(

Have you tryed the link that Sime as posted on page 9 . This is where i downloaded mine from . All you have to do is once its loaded is to move the expired message to one side and it then works great

[Nathan W]

Thanks Jujitsu1. I got it. Here are my twin daughters :)

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24677740@N08/2342269301/" title="twins1 by NW76, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3287/2342269301_9c8388ed11.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="twins1" /></a>

ps- any suggestions on how to make this shot even better would be appreciated!

[mike_wahl]

Lol, I love the pics! I did one of these types of shots a few weeks ago. Heres my results!

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a187/fighting_the_world/betterdinner.jpg

Its very easy to do these in photoshop. For mine, I used the center image as my back layer then stacked the other two on top and just erased the opposite areas in the top layers. Works great!

[southernbelle]

I am inspired by all of these...I'm gonna try my own soon :)

[mike_wahl]

Here's my go at this. I've done a couple, using photoshop and group shot. This one was done in photoshop, as it didn't work in group shot.

I had trouble keeping the colours identical in my shots, so I had some trouble combining them.

http://www.gfcstudios.com/dropbox/Reflection.jpg


This is my favorite! Did you shop yours into the mirror, or is it a picture of your reflection in the mirror?

[douglas]

M$ Support never fail to ...[sitting down?] Baffle, Confuse, Amuse, Provoke to wrath, Tease, Amaze, Destroy all belief in humanity, embarrass me as a support professional... etc etc etc...

you can download it from my website to avoid confusion... right click below and save as [this is a windows application only]

<a href=http://www.gtvone.com/dps/GroupShotSetup.msi>CLICK</a>

Hope that helps.

Sime

I do not know whether something has changed since you posted this. When I Rclick thr link and save as I get an icon on my dektop "group shot setup". When I open that I'm asked ? save file, and clicking yes gives me another icon like the last...and so on. Am I doing something wrong?

[douglas]

I do not know whether something has changed since you posted this. When I R click the link and save as I get an icon on my desktop "group shot setup". When I open that I'm asked ? save file, and clicking yes gives me another icon like the last...and so on. Am I doing something wrong?

It's O.K.now,I seem to have solved the problem...here is my first attempt,.
Obviously I need to play with it, this is not a good picture, but at last I can see how it works.
I've replaced this picture with my secondgo... on the first the lighting was coming from the right and it was hard to get the 2 frames to look the same exposure
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/douglas999/2352437890/" title="duo5 by dogald, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3288/2352437890_d5a1b50463.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="duo5" /></a>

[edrex]

Douglas, don't sell yourself short, that is a great first photo using this! I like how you got the interaction between "yourselves" to look very natural.

[silentdark1979]

Heres my attempt from a few weeks back - There are a couple of "dodgy" areas, but overall im pleased with it.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24248127@N08/2298166279/" title="7 Clones by silentdark1979, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3018/2298166279_09fc1484c9.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="7 Clones" /></a>

[ikaijo]

This is a wonderful idea and all of the shots and information on "how to" shared are great! I have to try this soon!:p

[Flounder]

Clockdoc thanks for sharing!
Here is my attempt with my son.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3154/2377818415_1f0ffb2603.jpg

[southernbelle]

I tried one with my mom as the subject. It came out pretty well, but she doesn't want me to post it...she was in her "house clothes". I am gonna take another to post :)

[dlaf]

Sime, you rock for posting the link so we could download this. Can't wait to try it!

[iRonnie]

I have been wanting to do something like this for quite some time. Good to know that there is a software for this. Though I would also love to try using photoshop and compare the results.

[henryiia]

Here's my version using Photoshop...

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3108/2318029310_02ae8ac99f.jpg

[GuyFromCanada]

This is my favorite! Did you shop yours into the mirror, or is it a picture of your reflection in the mirror?

It's a photo of my reflection. I took two photos standing in front of the mirror, then just kept the reflection in the second one.

Glad you like it!

[Pshorten]

I've done one of these too!
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pshorten/293725253/" title="The new car by pshorten, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/102/293725253_4da25b2e6c.jpg" width="500" height="400" alt="The new car" /></a>

[henryiia]

I've done one of these too!
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pshorten/293725253/" title="The new car by pshorten, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/102/293725253_4da25b2e6c.jpg" width="500" height="400" alt="The new car" /></a>

great job... nice and clean...

[nikhilb]

Here is a fun little shot that at first glance looks like it may have been done with layers in Photoshop. I did try it first in Photoshop but cutting out all the individuals was tedious and lacked the proper reflections in the car. What I used was a free download from Microsoft called "Group Shot." This application can be a lifesaver if you have to shoot a group of people and end up with a small "glitch" (people blinking, turning their head, not smiling, etc.) in each shot. Using Group Shot, you can create a composite easily and quickly by selecting those "heads" to be added to the master composite. I used that same approach here by shooting 5 separate images of me washing the car (Sony F707 on a tripod and using the self-timer.) I then selected each position and combined them in a master composite. Give it a try!
I'll be happy to try and answer any questions you may have about the shot or the software.
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/8359753@N07/507823864/" title="Photo Sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/200/507823864_d91dda2275.jpg" width="500" height="334" alt="carwash_composite" /></a>



I would not have joined this forum had it not been for this post. Thank you Lee and have an absolutely awesome day, all 5 of you! ;)

[cricce]

Looks very nice.. I got to try this out... maybe today if I got time. As I'm not a PS wizard this could be an easier program to use :)

[ronski24]

Same here! I gotta try this one out. Seems really fun!

[frad-ster]

Cool idea - I am going to go download it RIGHT NOW!!

THANKS!


Edit: This is no longer available. If anyone finds a version NOT on MSs website that is still out there for download, please let us all know! Does anyone know of a substitute?

[ppival]

Oh that looks fun! I think I'm going to try this with the kids - it'll blow their little minds! :-)

[Tajemi]

What a fun thread! I have giggled at all the pics, you are all so creative (with a little to much time on your hands maybe ;) ). Definately something I would love to try when I get some time and shots...

[richardpsic]

I didn't notice this thread before, actually I created this thread (http://digital-photography-school.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17224) with one of my clones pictures :). So to keep the fun I want to post this clone photo of my dear Mother in the beach of Bahia Inglesa in Chile. I took this one almost 5 years ago.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/53/147540278_48566a6944.jpg

...Mother there is one and only...

[Digidave]

richardpsic; Nice job on both photos!:)

[clockdoc]

Nice work, Richard. This has to be a record for number of subjects in one frame. Your mother gets a star for her patience!

[jays0n]

richardpsic, that second one is great. You have a knack for this clone photography for sure.

j

[pilothaz]

The Beta for Group Shot has expired on the site. I was just wondering if someone had the msi install file still?

[mseigafuse]

The Beta for Group Shot has expired on the site. I was just wondering if someone had the msi install file still?

Just ignore the expired message (move it out of the way or ignore it) and just continue to use Group Shot. It works fine as long as you ignore the message and just move it out of the way. The details are in this thread somewhere (getting to be a long thread :)). I'm not sure Groups Shot will be able to handle the number of clones like in the recent shots, if it can that would be cool...

There is a post on page 9 of this thread for a download.

Mike

[Canadian Mum]

Sime... thanks for the link... I finally figured I would give it a try... and couldn't get the program... I should have known that someone here would come to my rescue!!


Here is the link that Sime provided Click This (http://www.gtvone.com/dps/GroupShotSetup.msi)

[Pixelfun1]

I tried this last night. Step by step instruction and it was quite easy. It needs to be cleaned up and that will come with more knowledge of the program. But if a Novice like me can do it, you guys will absolutely love the endless possibilities. Thanks for the thread

[gemasiul]

This looks so interesting and fun.. I think I'll give a try too :)

[gemasiul]

I've done one of these too!
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pshorten/293725253/" title="The new car by pshorten, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/102/293725253_4da25b2e6c.jpg" width="500" height="400" alt="The new car" /></a>

Very good job!

[Pixelfun1]

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/11989001@N03/2436703308/" title="Multi-Tasking by pixelfun1, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3007/2436703308_33e77c491e.jpg" width="500" height="386" alt="Multi-Tasking" /></a>

[phoenixx]

That makes for a really interesting shot. Nice work.

[dannyrich]

This is my attempt.

I added the bottom overlapping 'me' at the end. It wasnt the picture i wanted to create i was just messing about because my remote release was delivered today!!!

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/24380379@N05/2437320518/" title="all me me me by dannyrich8, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3167/2437320518_a09e69c135.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="all me me me" /></a>

[Angelsong]

Thank you to Sime and Canadian Mum for posting the link for Group Shot. I was so disappointed when I discovered I couldn't download the program from Microsoft Research. Now I've downloaded it and can't wait to start playing with it!

[pfk981]

I just saw this post. Unfortunately the GroupShot software is no longer available.

[douglas]

I just saw this post. Unfortunately the GroupShot software is no longer available.
If you down load microsoft group shot (you can do this quickly if you go to page 9 of this thread, message from Sime and click where it says click)
then save file, and you will find the icon "group shot" on your desk top.
R click it and go to 'open with,' click on Windows Installer, and it will appear as a new program(go to start all programs) and click on Micro soft group shot. It will open with the warning sign "evaluation period etc." You can drag this off the screen or just L click on any empty space and it will disappear. Then follow the simple instructions. Have fun. Douglas

[robbyn8]

Thanks Clockdoc for sharing this Wonderful piece of software.

I haven't tried it out yet but I will.
I'm so impressed with all who shared their photos for us to see. Great jobs!!:)

[jays0n]

What an interesting thread. The fist image is a great result but there are so many others in the comments that followed it. Like a tutorial itself. Good work to all. I want to give this a try now, but not with my ugly face :)

[jays0n]

I've done one of these too!
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/pshorten/293725253/" title="The new car by pshorten, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/102/293725253_4da25b2e6c.jpg" width="500" height="400" alt="The new car" /></a>

Pshorten, the colors and shadows in you photo here are really nice, more so than the novelty of the multiple shots of the girl. Way to go.

[HockeyFan]

I went to download Group Shot and was disappointed to discover that they're beta period has expired and it's no longer available for download.

[mseigafuse]

I went to download Group Shot and was disappointed to discover that they're beta period has expired and it's no longer available for download.

Hi HockeyFan,

There is a link posted in this thread a few times to download - here is a link to one of them -

http://digital-photography-school.com/forum/showpost.php?p=159666&postcount=148

Good luck, it is fun to play with :)

Mike

[Angelsong]

Is anyone else having any trouble saving the composite photo in Group Shot?
I can't save low resolution or export high resolution. No error message- just won't do anything. I'm so disappointed! I worked so hard on my composite photo and it turned out great- but I can't save it to my computer.

[clockdoc]

I am not aware of that problem. Have you tried reloading the software from the link provided several posts back?

[HockeyFan]

I haven't loaded the software yet, but I did download it. (Busy). I wonder if this is an issue that the beta period expired. Could the software be time sensitive and after a period of time, you're no longer allowed to save images.
I'd be curious of those that have the software on their machines, and have used it in the past, if they have a problem now.

[kerrberr]

I was using it this weekend and haven't had a problem. Sometimes it seems to take forever, but it eventually works.

[Angelsong]

Is anyone else having any trouble saving the composite photo in Group Shot?
I can't save low resolution or export high resolution. No error message- just won't do anything. I'm so disappointed! I worked so hard on my composite photo and it turned out great- but I can't save it to my computer.

When I click the "Save" button, it brings up the "Save To" Dialogue box, but after I select a location to save it to and click "SAVE" nothing happens. The dialogue box stays open and it just sits there.
I did discover that when I save it as a TIF file, it works fine, so I've been saving as TIF and then converting to JPG. Weird- but I'm satisfied with the solution and will post my first attempt when I get home from work today!

[Angelsong]

Amateur, I know- but we had a blast playing with it anyway.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/angelsong_/2451445302/" title="Marissa X 5 by angelsong_, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3124/2451445302_49715d5b18.jpg" width="500" height="304" alt="Marissa X 5" /></a>

I'd like to introduce all of you to my daughters: Marissa, Marissa, Marissa, Marissa and Marissa....;)

[Pixelfun1]

hey... I tried downloading GroupShot through a link that was posted above. However, when I tried to use it is says "evaluation period has expired". any suggestions???

[mistypictures]

Here's mine with photoshop!
I call it "Spoiled Broth"
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2175/2434882401_e10d8f534d.jpg

[dlthibo]

hey... I tried downloading GroupShot through a link that was posted above. However, when I tried to use it is says "evaluation period has expired". any suggestions???

Just ignore the message box that pops up and click elsewhere in the software. That's how I have to use mine.

[Pixelfun1]

I"ll try...thank you.

[Pixelfun1]

Just ignore the message box .

It worked... thanks for the tip:D

[arphot]

I'd like to introduce all of you to my daughters: Marissa, Marissa, Marissa, Marissa and Marissa....;)

Which one is which?

[Pixelfun1]

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/11989001@N03/2491536235/" title="OnlyChild by pixelfun1, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2303/2491536235_8631edb815.jpg" width="500" height="391" alt="OnlyChild" /></a>

[juanp83]

Wow! I've been thinking about doing a self-portrait project and I think I may try something like this.

Very cool. :)

[kimali]

hi not long ago found out about GROUPSHOT, but when i went to check it out, it had expired! An email from microsoft said they were looking into possibly introducing a full version in the future, but i'm too impatient for that! I don't have photoshop yet, ( blew the budget on the D80!) so does anyone know of something similar to use? Thanx.

[clockdoc]

Others experiencing the same problem you faced have found a download link posted by Sime a while back. You can find it here:
http://digital-photography-school.com/forum/showpost.php?p=159666&postcount=148

I don't know if it is still valid. Give it a try and if the application downloads, when you open it, you may get a message saying the trial period has expired. I have heard that if you click anywhere outside the message box, the program will run as designed. Good luck and let us see what you come up with.

[douglas]

hi not long ago found out about GROUPSHOT, but when i went to check it out, it had expired! An email from microsoft said they were looking into possibly introducing a full version in the future, but i'm too impatient for that! I don't have photoshop yet, ( blew the budget on the D80!) so does anyone know of something similar to use? Thanx.

You can still download and use it.

If you down load microsoft group shot (you can do this quickly if you go to page 9 of this thread, message from Sime and click where it says click)
then save file, and you will find the icon "group shot" on your desk top.
R click it and go to 'open with,' click on Windows Installer, and it will appear as a new program(go to start all programs) and click on Micro soft group shot. It will open with the warning sign "evaluation period etc." You can drag this off the screen or just L click on any empty space and it will disappear. Then follow the simple instructions. Have fun. Douglas

[kimali]

Thanx heaps guys, worked a treat!!! now i'll spend the next week playing around with it! Very, very much appreciated, you are all champions!!

[aguer]

Hello, very nice shot(s)...unfortunately I cant download the free apps from microsoft...any alternative?

[Gayle]

Hello, I just read a lot of the entries in this discussion and have just successfully downloaded the microsoft group photo thing using Simes instrucions on page 9 of this discussion, , , it does work and i am running Vista. so have another go, Aguer.
:)

[navy.wife_2004]

i like the lazy one, lol.. nice work!

[chrismar]

Here's my go at it using Photoshop Elements...

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/chrismar/2552921666/" title="Playing Cards w/ Myself by chrismar, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3162/2552921666_77c9f29647.jpg" width="500" height="256" alt="Playing Cards w/ Myself" /></a>

[clockdoc]

Nice job! What version of Elements are you using?

[chrismar]

Nice job! What version of Elements are you using?
Thanks! I'm using Elements 6.

[Little Rock Photo]

Sime! Thank you for sharing the link! This application is too cool for MS to keep under wraps... I understand now MS wanting to make it only available for those that pay the $$$ to get the top of the line version of the MS operating system.

[koddok]

will try this later...nice composite...thanks

[arphot]

This is something I had done a year or so ago or thereabouts. My eyes aren't even looking at each other. Hey, it was my 1st time. If I remember correctly, I followed someone's tut or something but couldn't seem to complete it as it was written so I ended up erasing parts I think. Anyhoo . . . here it is.
http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k65/khersee/mememecopyrs-1.jpg

note the remote in my hand. real smooth, huh?

[sweetg]

A couple of pics we played around with tonight...

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27464646@N06/2558895889/" title="Just the 3 of us by sweetgpics, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3093/2558895889_27b2e49791.jpg" width="500" height="213" alt="Just the 3 of us" /></a>

f/3.5 0.4sec iso 800... put together using Microsoft Group Shot...

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27464646@N06/2559718464/" title="3 too many drinks by sweetgpics, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3010/2559718464_14bd0a1ae8.jpg" width="500" height="356" alt="3 too many drinks" /></a>

f/5 0.3sec iso 800 using Group Shot again

[Little Rock Photo]

Here was my first go at the Group Shot application. Many thanks to Sime for making the application still available on Page 9 of the thread!

I recommend having constant lighting (my three shots were taken with a flash that did not provide consistent lighting results). Thus I had to tweak it in PS to overcome some of the shadow tones.

http://www.betterphoto.com/gallery/dynoGallDetail.asp?photoID=6319798&catID=&style=&rowNumber=1&memberID=236137

[Mstee4eva]

My share using Photoshop:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3108/2318029310_02ae8ac99f.jpg

I have PSE5 please tell me how you did this ';0)...

[richierich]

Here's my take using the program. Thanks to Sime for sharing the link to the program. Thanks also to clockdoc for opening up a thread.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/25827431@N05/2574241881/" title="watching a ball game by richierich_0620, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3258/2574241881_dfc90f6b3e.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="watching a ball game" /></a>

[clockdoc]

You went that extra mile and changes clothes between shots! Thanks for sharing your shot with us.

[Mstee4eva]

';0)... well I was finally able to download group shot, will post my version of me soon lma0.

[richierich]

You went that extra mile and changes clothes between shots! Thanks for sharing your shot with us.

Yehhh just to make it more realistic :)
Cool program. They'll probably charge for it next time and make some more improvement.

[pedra12]

I'll have to download and play with that program over the weekend. Looks like fun.
:)

[Pixelfun1]

changes clothes between shots! .

Great Idea!! I'll have to give it another shot. Hopefully my daughter's willing to help me again.

[ARBORGUY]

THANKS to all for helping me get this way cool operation!!

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/nikonbilld80/20080621/photo#5215217152596902162"><img src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/nikonbilld80/SGAsXm8QARI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/rLz_80wQpbw/s400/Bill%20and%20Bill%20and%20Bill_edited-3.jpg" /></a>

[limitedvista]

Here's my first shot at it. Thanks to all for the head's up and for making the program available. Fun stuff.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3231/2610961965_7058bbd5b0.jpg

[DEBBIE BROCK]

Totally cool!

[Pagani]

This was my first experience with Group Shot...this is addictive :P

http://spc.fotologs.net/photo/44/42/35/perfect_tool/1216663602500_f.jpg

Me, Myself and Pro Evolution Soccer :P

[picinichml]

I love it. It truely looks like there are five of you. I'd love to watch a tutorial on how you did it.

[dblaveino]

...before I really knew what I was doing, but it was for a family Christmas card, Using Photoshop CS2

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/28518346@N06/2713360207/" title="Snowflake by veino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2096/2713360207_146b5a34fa.jpg" width="500" height="385" alt="Snowflake" /></a>

[Jae]

What fun Group shots! Makes me want to try it out. :)

[picinichml]

Well I have to say that I am brand new to PSE. I'm using the free 30day trial for PSE 6. And this was soooo much fun and EASY to do. Here are two that I did just quickly. But my brain is going into overdrive thinking of all that I can do with it.

Ok, I'm slow today... how do I upload my pictures? I don't have a URL, they are just on my computer??

[Spike]

Ooooh I am DYING to try this out too... except one problem. One of me in a picture is almost too much.. two might be breaking laws. :D

I bet with a few subtle costume and hairstyle changes, I could convince somebody I have a non-evil twin.

Sime's coffee-raid has kinda got me inspired for some fun kitchen-type compositions. Thanks everybody for sharing your cool pics.

[M_R_Burke]

I've been looking for a good tutorial on how to compose these pictures. I am one of those unfortunate people that really only learns from seeing/doing and not reading. I've tried with PS for over an hour and am getting nowhere. I downloaded the GS and got a crude accomplishment. If anyone knows of a video instruction could you please link it for me. I have a great idea of what I'd like to do next but.... Here is my first

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/29411100@N02/2771425655/" title="Hear.See.Speak No Evil by m_r_burke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3143/2771425655_2d5798d892.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Hear.See.Speak No Evil" /></a>

[Angel]

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/9822757@N07/2800914651/" title="Double the Fun! by Rebel 1, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3194/2800914651_3d89403814.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Double the Fun!" /></a>
I had to try it too! It took me two tries, the first one took forever so I went to bed and something happened during the night. I had to start all over in the morning, this time it took 5 hours for the whole thing. Is this normal, or is my computer SUPERSLOW?

[clockdoc]

Hi Angel,
Did you use GroupShot or Photoshop? With Groupshot, the key is to use a tripod and place the subjects such that no part of an one overlaps the other. It should less than an hour to make the groupshot composite.

[Angel]

Hi Angel,
Did you use GroupShot or Photoshop? With Groupshot, the key is to use a tripod and place the subjects such that no part of an one overlaps the other. It should less than an hour to make the groupshot composite.

I used Group Shot. I did use a tripod... It just took forever to process the pictures!

[clockdoc]

Hmmmm! What size files were you using? Can you try it again but using smaller file sizes? Other than that I am at a loss as to why it would take so long. How much RAM does you system have?

[bispham_tangerine]

Hmmmm! What size files were you using? Can you try it again but using smaller file sizes? Other than that I am at a loss as to why it would take so long. How much RAM does you system have?

full system specs would help as its not just ram that makes a difference.
if he's only running a P2/Duron then no amount of ram in the world is going to help. :rolleyes:

[brandon]

Here's my first post and my attempt at it, I used my dogs playing in the back yard in Group Shot. I suppose the only thing I didn't like about it was the selection tool was only the square tool, it would be nice to have a lasso tool in there. I had to go into PS and make some fine touches on some of the images that were too close and cut one another out.
http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm197/brandonpriceco/Photoshop/DogsPlaying02.jpg

[clockdoc]

Nice work! I agree that the square selection tool can be problematic but I guess for the time being we just have to work around it. I like it better than Photoshop for ease of use. Just watch the overlaps as that can create some interesting anatomical structures.

[private]

When I used group shot my pictures were grainy...I used pretty big photos - should I shoot in RAW or something?

[clockdoc]

From their Help page, try using the "Full Resolution Composite" to save the image.

"When you are satisfied with the composite, you can save the results by selecting the File Menu item “Export Full Resolution Composite”. This may take a few seconds, but it will produce the best quality image. However, if you simply want a 640x480 sized composite image, choose the menu item “Save Low Resolution Composite”. "

[private]

I did save full resolution...I want to do a fun Christmas card - maybe I will try again...and see whathappens - it could be first time-itis

[brandon]

Thanks Doc

I exported as a full resolution pic and had no problems... your pics weren't grainy prior to using group shot were they? Mine were large and I usually had to try to export it twice because it would give me a memory error (not enough) but when I ran it the 2nd time it would work.

[private]

No, I took them w/ the Xti with the highest resolution it has - there is someone else on the forum., with my camera who had the same issue - I have the Xti...

[curtiswheat]

These are always fun.

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/photobycurtis/2282844376/" title="Joel by photobycurtis, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2213/2282844376_aa3dd3229e.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="Joel" /></a>

[Houry]

Wow! this is really interesting. But I guess no more downloads :confused:!!! do you know how I can get the software? Thanks in advance.

[antishay]

This thread is very cool - most of all because we get to see some of the PHOTOGRAPHERS in front of the lens ;) Love it. I will play with this tonight.

[leesanders]

Here is a link to download Groupshot


http://www.softsea.com/review/Microsoft-GroupShot.html

[nuno]

this is a nice app, however today if you install it it will say the beta period is over.

Just put the date back to 01.01.2006, install the application.
then you can use it again until you change the date again.

[M_R_Burke]

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/29411100@N02/2851827680/" title="Sports Kid 1 by m_r_burke, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3104/2851827680_d469fedf18.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="Sports Kid 1" /></a>

[Smolt]

This is so much fun! Thanks for posting!

Here is my quick shot at it... Bad image quality (my fault) but it still made me laugh!

<a href="http://s55.photobucket.com/albums/g123/shlebo/?action=view&current=mevme.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g123/shlebo/mevme.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

[Rebecca]

M$ Support never fail to ...[sitting down?] Baffle, Confuse, Amuse, Provoke to wrath, Tease, Amaze, Destroy all belief in humanity, embarrass me as a support professional... etc etc etc...

you can download it from my website to avoid confusion... right click below and save as [this is a windows application only]

<a href=http://www.gtvone.com/dps/GroupShotSetup.msi>CLICK</a>

Hope that helps.

Sime

Thanks Sime for the link, it's working for me.

Thanks Clockdoc for this fun tutorial! The message still shows up, but like you said, I can just click on the software window and keep going with it. Plus I use Vista, and it's working well, it's so easy and fast!

I just had a quick go with it, but I will for sure post something later on!

[Rebecca]

Here is my try

<a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v410/venusians/?action=view&current=piano1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v410/venusians/piano1.jpg" border="0" alt="Photobucket"></a>

[Bloater]

not had any luck with the beta from microsoft, instead used photOshop (or any other imaging package with layers) and merged the 4 shots in 4 layers - deleting the bits of each layer.

<a href="http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/lh/photo/J59xObMoC5zlO3FCoAdGEg"><img src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/thebloater/SM1poDmuMxI/AAAAAAAAEeo/9gXbW01EXSs/s400/takingovers.jpg" /></a>

[jamesandype]

These are just so AWESOME! well done everyone it's inspiring me to do some myself!

I had a go with one of my pictures - it's very simple but i'm happy with how it turned out.

Enjoy and let me know what you think. oh and I used photoshop:)

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/andypingo/2863463773/" title="Bouncing by anbr, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3116/2863463773_f85d81dd07.jpg" width="313" height="500" alt="Bouncing" /></a>

[deee123]

Microsoft discontinued the download of this product. It sounded like a great program!

Thanks

dee123

[july_hymn]

i tried jinxworld's tutorial (except in GIMP, not photoshop) and got a pretty decent result for my first try! not spectacular photos by any stretch, but i just wanted to take a couple quick shots to give this technique a try. what fun!!! thank you!

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/july_hymn/2893450274/" title="lemme see that by july_hymn, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3013/2893450274_3496ee4f4c.jpg" width="500" height="333" alt="lemme see that" /></a>

[MrRod]

is there another program like microsoft groupshot? i downloaded it but being told the evaluation has expired.

[kwgrimes]

I like it and will definitely have to give it a go.

[milokutak]

how exactly do you merge the pictures?? thanks in advance

[Riandie]

I looked at this forum and it inspire me to tried it and this is mine result
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/riandie/2968826929/" title="Quadruplets Jermaine by Riandie, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3022/2968826929_54e5e07de2.jpg" width="500" height="346" alt="Quadruplets Jermaine" /></a>

[lightwork]

Haha, this is similar to one I did of my fiance at the beginning of the year ...

http://www.lightwork.co.nz/photos/creative/ninja-see-no.jpg

[Booh!]

Thank you for these type of posts! It's just what someone like me needs to encourage me to tinker around with my new camera!

As with some posts a ways back, just move the "expiration" warning window out of the frame, and Group Shot still works. :)

Here is the newbie giving it a try! I'm going to send this to my parents to freak them out...they'd really think something was wrong with us if we got two more dogs!

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/29447908@N07/3006731016/" title="Cedar by krausehouse pics, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3254/3006731016_e89ca1b553.jpg" width="488" height="326" alt="Cedar" /></a>

[dblaveino]

Hey, Haven't posted in a little while, BUT I did happen to work on one of these shots here... check it out...

<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/veino/3000678667/" title="Biker by veino, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3027/3000678667_5833615fd3.jpg" width="500" height="332" alt="Biker" /></a>

the larger version on Flickr lets you see a little more detail...

[Dr. WooD]

This has to be the longest running still active thread in DPS history.

[dlthibo]

is there another program like microsoft groupshot? i downloaded it but being told the evaluation has expired.

Just ignore the message. It still works. Just click elsewhere in the program.

[Misty]

multiple yoga!!
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mistypictures/3006597783/" title="Peace Three by misty.pictures, on Flickr"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3150/3006597783_19bfd12b16.jpg" width="500" height="321" alt="Peace Three" /></a>