SHould I say "NO?"

[cajun angel]

In January, I have an opportunity to photograph a family of 25. This will be the parents and 5 daughters with their families. I don't know whether I should say no or bite the bullet and do it. I have 2 sb800's, D200, and about the only lens that would work in the space at the location is my 18-200. I do not have "studio" equipment.

I know there will be a portrait of all 25 together (that's the one I'm most worried about) and then each daughter and her family, and then one of the parents. So, we're talking about 7 portraits.

My experience with portraiture is minimal, but so far, everyone has been happy. If I say no to this lady, I need to help her find some one who is better equipped. The price tag on this photo op is not my highest concern for now.

[ndsimm]

just my 2 cents...

find out EXACTLY what they are expecting and make sure they know EXACTLY what you are able to do. If both parties agree after that and you get it in writing, then go for it....
if they are expecting more than you have the ability to offer, then don't
recommend someone to them and offer to assist to get the experience

[CaptainTom]

Dianne
There aren't many photographers who have had the chance to shoot a family of 25 (And lived to tell about it).
So, advice on this forum should be taken with a grain......etc.

It sounds like the location is a done deal ? Any available light there ?
Available light can be your friend or your enemy depending on how you think about it.

Is there someone in your area with Nikon lighting experience you can call upon to help you at the shoot ? It's not too late to make alliances and offer to reciprocate in the future. Your bird photos show that you understand your camera, exposure, etc. I think it's just getting this group lit properly is making you nervous ?

Suggestion 1- figure out how you are going to pose this big group. Will it be three deep, four, five ?
Once you know how deep the crowd will be, you can calculate the aperture to use on the lens you select that will give you a good DOF.
Now, you can calculate how much light you'll need to light up this group.
I forgot what Nikon you use. Can you rent one of those D3's and up the ISO into the stratosphere so you don't need much light ?

going to bed now. looking forward to any help we can give.

[bondarnes]

I might be available to help out. PM Sent.

[toverman]

Enlisting experienced help is an excellent idea, not only in the lighting set up but the posing (not to mention the people wrangling).

[Dawn U]

Maybe it's because I come from a large family (my mom is the oldest of 8), but I did a family of 35 over the summer and it really wasn't a big deal.

Stitching photos in Photoshop is a great way to get everyone in "one" shot and still be abe to see faces. Worked out wonderfully.

Make sure you get a member of the family who knows the names of all the kids to help you get everybody where you want/need them.

However, if you're not comfortable with groups that size, or really feel you can't provide what they expect, after talking to them about what they expect, then turn it down. However, it could be an excellent learning tool.

[Aric C. Hoek]

You have an opportunity to make thousands here. Rent the equipment you need. Take the assignment!!!

[cajun angel]

Originally Posted by Aric C. Hoek

You have an opportunity to make thousands here. Rent the equipment you need. Take the assignment!!!

If $$ wasn't an issue right now, I'd rent the equipment. I have 0 experience with studio stuff, light meters and whatnot. I'm really hoping the lady will be agreeable to a photographer who has graciously offered his help.

Thanks ya'll for your wonderful input!

[CaptainTom]

Let Don do it.
Watch and learn. You'll learn more than you thought you needed to know.

[cajun angel]

Originally Posted by CaptainTom

Let Don do it.
Watch and learn. You'll learn more than you thought you needed to know.

I hope he'll do it too. I"m waiting to hear from him and see when we can meet with the client. And if I get to tag along, I hope to learn as much as I can from him!

[ol geezer]

Diane,
Where is this shoot to take place? Maby I can help if it is not too far. I could add the third SB-800 for lighting. I also have Nikon "fast glass" and a D300. Give me a call. You have my number.

Vernon