andela

This is always poor advice to give someone who is learning. Everyone, including professionals, all start at the same place... no experience and a bit clueless. When it comes to photography, trial and error is the primary way of learning.

As to cost, I would only worry about covering your expenses on this one. Mostly leave it up to the group and chalk it up to learning. Be sure to be up front with the group from the start. If all goes well, review what works and what doesn't and use this experience as as a stepping stone.

If you're limited on equipment you can still successfully take this shot. Like what has been recommended by others, a ladder(or higher vantage point) and a wide open area on a bright overcast day is going to be your best friend. If you have space, don't be afraid to back up as far as you need to fit the group into the frame. I also strongly suggest asking a couple of friends to assist you. First, it will help in communicating posing instructions to the group and secondly to help hold up reflectors. Don't worry if you don't own any large commercially made reflectors. Go to an office supply or art store and pick up some large sheets of white foam core or matte board. The glossier the surface the better. Really any white or lightly colored surface will reflect a significant amount of light from the sun. The trick is to figure out the angle/distance from the group necessary in order to get some even fill light.

cj Loc: Emporium, Pa

:hunf:

OddJobber Loc: Portland, OR

Who you raising that eyebrow to, CJ?

cj Loc: Emporium, Pa

was hoping no one noticed 8-)
should have a smiley with a halo

robert-photos Loc: Chicago

There's a smiley with a halo???

cj Loc: Emporium, Pa

.
there should be...

I have all the confidence that the original poster can do this group shot.

robert-photos Loc: Chicago

I agree, there should be.

cj Loc: Emporium, Pa

On a serious note, the DC group shot was pano'd together. I searched above and found tons of information on Panoramas