Photographying Extended Family - Tips Requested

[justavapour]

I've only done family pictures twice before, and the largest group was 7 people. Next month, I have been asked to take family pictures for a large family. There will be 13 adults and 11 children (ranging from infant to age 11). They are wanting outdoor pictures in the snow. I only have 2 dslrs with flashes. Would reflector panels be useful - or is the group too big?

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'm not worried about the individual families, just when I need all 24 in the same pictures. The goal is for the shoot to be too formal and hopefully somewhat fun.

Thanks!

[wulf]

I think you'll find that the snow will serve as an excellent all round reflector.

What do you know about the location for the shoot?

Wulf

[ccting]

I can't find snow in my country ...any other alternative?

[wulf]

Originally Posted by ccting

I can't find snow in my country ...any other alternative?

Big white buildings? I only mentioned snow because the original poster noted it as part of their environment. Take advantage of what you've got.

Wulf

[homank76]

Snow can be very difficult to shoot in, the camera by its programming likes to turn it gray. Do you happen to have a gray card or know someone that has one you can borrow. What I would first do is shoot a practice picture and have someone hold it. This can be used to set white balance in the later pictures. Of course if the sun is shining and then goes behind some clouds you'll need another picture taken with the gray card.

Other things to do, have the aperture set to at least F/8 if not F/11. Remeber to aim in the middle of the group in ensure everyone would be in focus. I would also bring a step stool or a ladder to get a different angle of the group...you may be surprised how much of a difference a few feet make. I would take as many pictures you could, someone could have their eyes closed, kids misbehaving...