A good group photo needs even light, a deep enough zone of focus and an arrangement that lets every face be seen. Use f/5.6 to f/8, take many frames and tell people when you are about to fire. Here is a simple plan from setup to final frame.
Plan the Scene
Choose an open shade location, such as under a tree line or beside a building, where light is soft and no one squints. Check the background for poles, signs and bright patches. Keep the group close to a plain backdrop.
- Avoid direct midday sun, which casts hard shadows on faces.
- Ask people to avoid very different brightness levels in clothing if possible.
- Decide on the position first, then call people in.
- Bring a stool or bench for variety in height.
Arrange People
- Create rows by height or by using a bench, steps or stool.
- Ask people to stand slightly angled, with one foot forward.
- Tighten the group. Gaps look awkward and make the frame wider.
- Make sure every face is visible. If you can see the camera, it can see you.
- Keep heads at slightly different heights to form a gentle shape, such as a triangle.
- For large groups, stand on a step or chair to shoot from a higher angle.
Camera Settings
A single row can use f/4, but multiple rows need more depth. Focus on the second row or the middle of the group, so those in front and behind stay acceptably sharp.
| Group size | Aperture | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 to 4, one row | f/4 to f/5.6 | Easy to keep faces sharp |
| 5 to 10, two rows | f/5.6 to f/8 | Focus on the front row’s eyes |
| Large, several rows | f/8 to f/11 | Use a tripod and a wider lens |
Use a shutter speed of at least 1/160 second, since small movements add up in a crowd. Raise ISO if you need to. Shoot RAW.
Handle the Moment
Speak up and count down: three, two, one. Take several frames, because someone will blink. Take one more after you say you are done, since people relax and the expressions are often the best. Check the screen and zoom in on faces.
If you are in the photo yourself, use a tripod, set focus on a stand-in spot and use a ten second timer. Run back, check the group quickly, and take a burst.
FAQ
How do I fix blinks?
Take many frames and combine heads from different shots in editing, or choose the frame with the fewest closed eyes.
What lens should I use?
A standard zoom around 24 to 70 mm is flexible. Avoid very wide settings that stretch people at the edges.
The Short Version
Find soft light, arrange people in tight rows and use f/5.6 to f/8. Count down, shoot lots of frames and check faces before everyone leaves.
