The Foot Shot

a step-by-step guide to the perfect group* photo

(click the play button above to hear me read this handy guide aloud to you)

A tried and true memory-making method, the Foot Shot won’t produce pics riddled with closed eyes, sour smirks, or hair blowing in the wind (and not in the sexy supermodel way). No more, “Can you take that over? I don’t like how I look in that one,” ever again.

You’ll need:

• Two or more people (each with at least one foot)

• A camera, because, well, we are taking a photo

Ready? Let’s go!

Step 1: Set the Scene.

While the feet will be at the center of the shot, the setting is also a true star. Be it the beach, the bookstore, or your bestie’s backyard bar-b-q, look down and scout a spot on the ground that best represents where you are. A patch of green grass or a cobblestone path will be perfect to jog your memory when strolling down that lane in the future. Don’t overthink it or painstakingly stage it. Wherever you are is exactly where you need to be.

Step 2: Gather ‘Round.

Yes, literally have everyone stand in a circle, facing one another. This is best for groups* of 2 to 10 people. Trying to shoehorn everyone’s family reunion feet in the frame will only frustrate.

Step 3: Do the Hokey Pokey (sorta).

You’ll each put your right foot in the center of the circle, you’ll put your left foot out. Toes pointed inward, as if each foot is a spoke of a tire, a “foot wheel” is created.

Step 4: Say, “Cheese!” (or whatever you want to say, really, because no faces will be seen, so feel free to shout, “Here comes Bigfoot, look out!” if you so choose).

Point the camera at the aforementioned foot wheel and capture the moment.

The result: A perfect snapshot in time. Footwear fashion dates the photo flawlessly, as might the size of a child’s foot over the years as it grows from a tiny Coney dog into a full-grown footlong.

Extra credit: Include pet paws (real and stuffed!). That is, if you are lucky enough to have cooperative pets. (Cat folks, you already know there is no way this is happening. Photograph their precious paws all on their own.)

Extra, extra credit: In this digital age, take the time to print out your photo. This “footprint” will last for years to come.

Final footnote: Looking to take individual pics? You’ll enjoy the upcoming Footsie Guide. Despite the name, it is most definitely a solo shoot.