Farmers Image of the Week: Capturing A High Energy Group Photo
FARMERS IMAGE OF THE WEEK
Hash Hart
Farmers Image of the Week: Capturing A High Energy Group Photo
This high energy group photo by the very talented Hash Hart was nominated for Farmers Image of the Week by another photographer. I love that our Farmers inspire others and create this wonderful circle of creativity.
Hash is serving us a lesson here in reading the room, understanding the nuances of multiple subjects’ personalities, and being able to direct them into a high-energy group photo. It might look somewhat chaotic, but Hash has complete control over the scene and how the supporting players are enhancing the main characters. It’s another fine example of giving your clients experiences as much as a gallery full of images. You can tell how much fun everyone is having and I’ll bet nobody was eye-rolling about ‘having to go outside for group photos’
Composition:
Hash has expertly composed this shot to capture the joyous chaos of the moment. The bride and groom are clearly the focal point, perfectly placed in the center of the frame. The surrounding friends, each with their own lively expressions and poses, create a dynamic and engaging scene that pulls the viewer towards the embracing couple.
Emotion:
This photograph is brimming with emotion and energy. The laughter, excitement, and genuine happiness of the group are palpable. Hash has captured a moment of pure joy that resonates deeply, making the viewer feel like they are part of the celebration.
Creativity:
Hash’s creativity shines through in this image. The decision to capture such a high-energy, spontaneous moment demonstrates a keen eye for storytelling. The mix of poses and expressions adds a layer of complexity and fun to the photo, making it a standout group image.
Connection:
The rapport that Hash has built with the group is evident in their relaxed and natural expressions. The couple’s kiss at the center of the frame is a sweet focal point, surrounded by the lively reactions of their friends. Yes, it’s somewhat messy but this only adds to its realness. This is dynamic image that reflects the vibrant spirit of the entire group.
Hash has demonstrated that with planning, quick thinking, and an understanding of group dynamics, you can create a wedding photo that is both visually stunning and emotionally rich. This image is a testament to his directing skill and vision, making it a well-deserved Farmers Image of the Week. Congratulations, Hash!
THE DETAILS
CAMERA: Sony A7 IV | 35mm GM
SETTINGS: ISO – 100 | f/2.0 | 1/4000
PRESET: Own Preset
“I portray it as they’re that couple in a club having a photo with the photographer and you’re that group that can’t resist to photobomb the f*ck outta it.“
This day was intense, it was nonstop and the time scale was tight so everything we did had to be fast and flow through the day nicely. When we got back from the cocktail hour on the London party boat we had 15 minutes to get the remainder of the group shots (I always leave my bridesmaid and groomsmen group shots until later when the lightings nicer and people have had chance to ease up with a few drinks)
So right before we go in we gather everyone up and I had a system in mind, to start with the groomsmen, followed by the bridesmaid and then I always bring them all together for the finale! It’s explosive and chaotic, we started with music on, the new diss track Kendrick released on Drake. But we soon got told off by security so had to actually shoot this without music for a change.
After shooting them separately you get an idea for who’s a little shyer and who’s got the big energy so I’ll usually position them in a way that brings the party to the key parts of the frame and the others to fill in the sides. Thing with this one was every single person had some crazy energy (there were so many actors at this wedding like for real hahahah)
Given that, this just came easy, I told them when Yan + Dom kiss, I want everyone in. Under their legs on their shoulders and squeeze them in. I portray it as they’re that couple in a club having a photo with the photographer and you’re that group that can’t resist to photobomb the f*ck outta it.
They delivered and we went on to dancing our way back to the wedding after only being 7 minutes late BUT getting everything we needed and having such a fun time.
They actually said they’re some of their fave images
THE TECH TALK
Farmers Image of the Week: Capturing A High Energy Group Photo
Read the room, this doesn’t work for everyone and can make some people feel uncomfortable. I don’t do this often and especially not with lesser numbers because you need that framing to be right.
It’s in no way set up to frame correctly and it’s in no way a perfect photo, it’s chaotic and messy and sometimes doesn’t work as well as others but it’s so fun for the wedding party!
Admittedly there is a bit of chance involved on how it comes out but it really is about figuring out your people. Figure out who you want at the important parts of the frame & don’t put pressure on someone who might be a little more shy, just put them to the side and allow everyone to be themselves and feel comfortable.
It might not be a good shot but this is to make group shots fun, not perfect, that’s the priority for me and the results soon follow.
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