You may need the ultimate in patience, but photographing groups can bring rewards for the photographer and even lead you to be asked to do more work.

There are some simple rules to remember:

Always fill the frame with groups. Don't let people be cut off the sides of the viewfinder or let their heads be chopped off the top of the screen. Similarly, you don't want too much space at either side. However, don't exclude the background completely as this gives a sense of "where" for your group. People always like to identify their environment.

Make the group informal in position - they are not soldiers - different heights and postures is what you are looking for. This adds interest for the viewer and avoids the formal look.

If you have 2 or 3 in the group, get their heads at different heights and try getting your subjects to tilt their heads to the side (towards each other) slightly - it will make for a more pleasing effect.

If you are going to use flash, make sure it is powerful enough (small cameras will have weaker flashes) otherwise some people will be illuminated and others not.

Go outside if you can. The light is more diffuse even on a sunny day and you may not need flash. You can use reflectors if necessary to lighten shadows. Avoid the hottest part of the day - early or mid-morning or towards the late afternoon will be fine.

Make sure your subjects are not looking at the sun otherwise they will squint. Use fill in flash if you have to and have the sun behind the subjects.

Don't forget props - chairs and benches are great. They immediately add a mixture of height and interest. Some of your subjects can stand whilst others sit or kneel.

You will take longer than you think to get the pictures you want. Some in your group will lose interest and this can get out of control. Be in charge! Talk to your subjects and tell them what you are doing. Keep it light-hearted and jovial but try to work quickly.

Always prepare beforehand if you can and tell the group what you want from them. Don't be shy. Take more pictures than you need - there will ALWAYS be someone with their eyes closed or in mid-yawn!

Eric Hartwell is an enthusiastic photographer and owner of teh photography resource site http://www.theshutter.co.uk and discussion forums http://www.theshutter.co.uk/forums.