I’ve just taken part in another group photoshoot with some incredible creatives, and I think I should sit down and explain: what they are, what’s involved, my experience with the different types, and my overall preferences for shooting. This is not meant to be a “do’s and don’ts” as I’m still a relatively new photographer. But more an opinion based on my experience and thoughts of group photoshoots and hopefully, it will open some peoples eyes to something they may have never thought of or been a part of.
What are group photoshoots? And are there different types?
Group photoshoots are where multiple photographers and models come together in one location for a photoshoot. This can be one model and 2+ photographers or, several models and photographers. Often hosted as events with set locations and models, inviting photographers to come along and shoot. This can be with or without instruction, some group photoshoots are held as workshops, others are simply put on to bring like-minded creatives together.
So what are the two types of group photoshoots? For me, there are two key ones. A shoot where a lot of photographers are focusing on the same model(s) at the same time, or having a lot of individual photoshoots happening in the same location from a group of people where photographers and models swap between each other and move around the location rotating the pairs.
Even when you’re shooting 1 on 1 there might be a shot that a photographer walking past can’t resist capturing, and sometimes if you shoot two models at once you may have two or more photographers, so there can be some overlap between the styles, but for the most part, it’s either all lenses looking at one subject or a lens per subject with a relatively equal ratio of photographers to models.
My experience when all shooting one model.
I have a feeling this can be overwhelming for the model, not knowing where to look as there are countless camera’s pointed at you. But, you get to see how individual perception shapes a shot. With 4 people shooting one model in the same room at the same time, creating 4 completely different pictures, it can be hard to direct and get your perfect shot. This is where you have to adapt to the scenario, physically moving yourself to get the angle you want if you can’t direct at that time.
On the other side, you can take advantage of and learn from others in the room. Pay attention to what they’re doing, saying, take on what you like and note down what you don’t like. It’s an immersive experience where you can benefit from others, and they can benefit from you. For a beginner it can be quite daunting, not wanting to direct and shoot in front of so many people, but it’s also the perfect environment to try and learn.
My experience with shooting 1 on 1 in group photoshoots.
Ultimately there are endless opportunities. So much so that you can have consumer anxiety about what to do! Not only do you have multiple models with multiple outfits, and multiple locations, but you’re normally on a timer too. Leading to another difficulty in time management. You can easily get carried away and then realise you only have an hour left and haven’t shot with 3 of the models yet!
However, it is much better for curating what you want as you have some 1 on 1 time with each model, allowing you to direct and articulate your vision. Having the opportunity to work with so many different models, who have their own unique styles offers great variety and is perfect for building out a portfolio from one event.
My preference & overall take aways.
Both of these styles of events offer huge networking opportunities for everyone involved, and just being around so many like-minded individuals can be refreshing, sparking creativity. I honestly enjoy both, especially if you have enough space to move around the venue and try different locations with each model.
If you’re someone who wants to stand out and be unique it can be more challenging as everyone is using the same space, and often shooting the same thing. I personally try not to shoot exactly the same as others and capture different perspectives, but I don’t really care too much if it does. If I love a shot, I love it, and no matter what you shoot, someone else will have done it, either already or in the future.
In short, I think these events are great. Not only do they provide an incredible amount of content, but you meet some amazing people and ultimately have a great time. If you want to get involved in future events, just start following and interacting with photographers and models in your area, even studios! There are so many amazing events that are put on frequently, just get yourself out there and get involved!
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As always if you have any questions, just send me a message. I could talk about this stuff all day, and sometimes do! I’d love for more people to get involved and will always welcome a conversation!
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