Never Say Never - The Joys Of Groups Shoots

Jess In White

Last Sunday I went over to my friends studio in Grimsby. We were having a little group shoot, three photographers and two models. I need to get this out there straight off. I really, really don't like group shoots. I tend to tolerate them if the photographers are good friends, but can't think of many things worse than a group shoot with people I don't know.

Jess In Black

Don't get me wrong, I love the social aspect of groups shoots, the chit chat, the to-ing and fro-ing of ideas. But when the shooting starts, forget it. It like an all out free for all. Even with friends. I never EVER get the shots I want at groups shoots. It always ends up being a make do kind of job.

Retro Colours

And why? I think sometimes photographers get in the zone and don't think of other photographers. They are so focussed on their ideas that time and any form of "studio etiquette" goes out of the window. I have literally had other photographers shooting over my shoulder, nicking my ideas (and the idea thief getting the images posted on Social Media before I even get home), eating into your other people's shoot time etc, the list goes on.

Jess In White (again)

During a group shoot last year I managed just four shots with one of the models - that's literally how bad it can get. Sometimes it just seems such a pointless activity (other than the social interaction). Once again, during this latest shoot I got some shots I quite like - some featured here - but got none that I actually wanted. Again.

So, why do you still go to them, I hear you ask. Sometimes the chat, the banter with good friends can be a tonic, sometimes being with like minded good friends is just what is needed. So in spite of me saying never again, I can guarantee I'll be there at the next one, and probably come away whining about not getting the shots I wanted 😂

About me:

I can mostly be found shooting models, aviation, motorsports and, when I can, wildlife. But I enjoy most aspects of photography. You can find more of my work on the links below.

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