Enlisting the photographer to open the dance floor

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sawdust123

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Nov 10, 2006
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Ventura County, CA
Here is a technique I have used several times to great success. I most recently used it last Saturday night at a wedding I was MCing but the primary entertainment was a live band.

Weddings are about creating lasting memories. That is why photographers and videographers are hired. There is one shot though that they rarely get; all the guests in one picture surrounding the B&G. I try to work this shot into the timeline. A good time for this is right after the spotlight dances before everyone gets sweaty and/or too casual. The photographer will need a ladder, a high perch or a drone along with a wide-angle lens. It is best to arrange this before the event but many photographers come prepared anyhow.

When the time comes, I ask all the guests to come to the floor so the photographer can take his shot. When the shot is done, I immediately go into a high energy song that is popular across age groups. Last week, this meant the band had to rearrange the first song for their set but they were cool with it because they want a full floor too.

Each time I have used this technique I get compliments from the photographer (for making their job easier and giving them a unique shot) and usually the venue staff who are generally amazed at how many people are dancing. Last Saturday the guests really enjoyed the drone show too. Give it a shot and enjoy the results.
 
I have used it in the past at a corporate party, and a Mitzvah. Both times worked pretty well. I have never done that at a wedding, but IF we are certain that it's a shy crowd, I might just be willing to do that if I felt it needed to be done.