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There is no doubt that people love to take pictures. In fact, according to Google statistics from the past few years, almost 100 million selfies are taken daily on Android devices alone. While people have seemingly mastered the art of the selfie, the ability to take a good group photo still alludes many people.
Whether it be a wedding on the beach, or simply a photo on vacation, everyone wants to take a group selfie where everyone looks hot. Unfortunately, this can be easier said than done. Thankfully, this article is here to help you out.
Without any further ado, this blog post is going to go over a few tips to take some incredible group photos.
Choose the Right Poses
First and foremost, you need to choose the right poses for the photo. These will dictate how everyone in the photo looks and how everyone is organized. There are an endless amount of poses to choose from. Generally, the wedding photographer will be able to offer some suggestions, but this isn’t always the case. You may have to choose on your own.
If the photo is semi-formal and important, such as a picture of the bride, groom and the family, the poses should all be fairly uniform and consistent. But if the photo is a bit more laid back, feel free to get a little more creative and unique with it. Getting the poses right can make all the difference in a good photo. Find poses that make you happy and confident, as those will generally offer the best shots.
Get the Lighting Right
Whether it is a group photo or a selfie, the importance of lighting cannot be overstated. The lighting of a photo can make people look incredible, or completely ruin the shot. In the best case, you want to be using all-natural light when taking a photo. Photos in the shade usually turn out well, but that can be hard to find at a beach wedding.
If you’re out in the sun, it’s a good idea to have the sun facing the backs of those getting their picture taken. This will prevent them from squinting in the photos. Also, be sure to look out for any shadows on any faces in the group photo.
Be sure that you don’t forget the time of the day, as well. The best and most flattering lights for photos is generally in the morning around 10 AM, or the early evening. If you do need to use artificial light of some kind, it is a good idea to make it subtle and keep it out of the eyes of those getting their picture taken.
Find the Correct Angle
Another tip for taking a great group photo is finding the right angles. Many people have a “good side” that they would rather show off in photos. Also, standing with your body and head a bit turned/titled often looks better than standing full frontal in front of the camera.
In addition to how to position yourself in these group photos, it is also a good idea to think about the angle the photo is being taken. Photos taken from slightly above can often help to eliminate double chins and make everyone look a bit sleeker. Of course, this won’t make much of a difference if the photo is taken from quite far away. Also, if the group photo is a selfie, you should try to have someone with the longest arm take it. This will ensure that everyone is in the frame.
Have a Plan
Before ever taking a large group photo, it is a good idea to have a plan. Trying to organize everyone, get lined up and all pose appropriately can take a lot of work without planning it out a bit ahead of time. You should know how serious or silly a photo will be, how those in the photo should stand, and where everyone should be situated. Organizing a full wedding party out in the hot sun to take some photos on a beach without a plan can be a very annoying (and sweaty) adventure.
Also, consider having a plan for how you want to smile. Many people don’t like their smile, and it takes some time to find one they think looks good. Practice makes perfect, so if you want to look great, take your fair share of photos and maybe even consider working on your smile in the mirror. A general tip is to push your tongue against the back of your top front teeth. This can help to fill any spaces slightly and will keep your smile from getting too large and comical.
In conclusion, we hope this article has been able to help you take better group photos where everyone looks great.
