The Big Jump

How to set up The Big Jump

1. Set the frame before anyone moves. The Big Jump wants a full-length frame that includes feet and a little ground, with 1–3 people already close enough to touch. Kids jump as high as they can, shot mid-air. Captures personality and lets energetic kids burn off steam.
2. Get them into the standing shape, then say this once and stop directing: "Show me your highest superhero jump!"
3. While they hold it, make one flatter change and shoot again. Shoot from slightly low and a little further back so the jump looks taller.
4. If the first frame feels stiff, do not rebuild the group. Try this next: Jump off a low wall or step.

Who it suits

The Big Jump is built for children. It is not an adult pose made smaller. It suits 1–3 people and a standing shape. It is beginner: one clear sentence is enough direction. If the group feels crowded, drop to the closest variation instead of backing everyone away from each other.

Where to shoot and how to light it

Shoot The Big Jump outside. A path, lawn, beach, step or open field is enough. Pick a background quieter than the people: one tree or a plain horizon beats a busy street. Keep the group in outdoor light, which the next section covers.

For The Big Jump, use open shade or late-day sun. Direct noon light squints eyes and blows out light clothing, especially on a standing pose where people cannot tilt a hat into place. If the sun is behind the group, expose for the faces and let the background go bright.

The usual miss on The Big Jump is a gap, a straight line of heads, or a face waiting for the next instruction. Shoot from slightly low and a little further back so the jump looks taller. Then take the frame before anyone resets.

Variations

• Jump off a low wall or step
• Jump holding hands with a friend
• Star jump with arms and legs out