Tips for Family Photos with Teens
Prior to opening my business over ten years ago, I was a high school English teacher. I taught 9th and 11th grade students for nearly fifteen years. During that time, I learned a thing or two about working with teenagers. As a St Augustine portrait photographer, I have learned that once kids enter that tween and teem phase, it can be a bit of a challenge to get them to participate in a family photo session. They do not want to have their photo taken, let alone hug and kiss their parents for an hour. You should not let that deter you from scheduling your family photo session. Now, more than ever, you want those family photos. They are still young and changing at a rapid pace, and these may be their last years living under your roof as a close family unit.
As a Ponte Vedra, Florida family photographer I have some insight for how to have a great session with teenagers, so I’m offering five tips for getting good (maybe even great) results.
Let Them Choose their Outfits
Moms, I get it. This is a hard one, but please let them be themselves. Let your child choose their outfits and their own hair style. The teenage years are all about self expression. Trying to force them to deviate from that can set a sour note for the start of the session. This does not mean they can show up in sweatpants. Instead, tell them the color palette and give them a few guidelines for wardrobe choices. Trust me, if you start with this step, they will be more comfortable and likely to be somewhat excited about the session. My goal is too capture authentic emotions, so having them dressed in a style that is authentic to their persona is a key element to success.
Don’t Try to Force Them To Smile
The more you age them to smile, the less likely they will be cooperative. Again, let them be. A smile is not the end all be all of a good photo. A photo that shows the true persona of an individual is key. A teen’s personality is multi faceted….they are moody and intense, but they still have a silly side deep down there. Instead of asking them to smile, I will give you a variety of prompts and have you interact ad that will typically elicit a smile.
Keep The Session Moving
Teens get bored easily, so I try to keep the photo session active by moving around and playing games. Sometimes they go into the game with a “too cool” attitude, only to come out laughing. Most of the time, if you get the siblings involved, the smiles will come naturally.
Don’t Push Them out of Their COmfort ZOne
Prior to your session, you will fill out a questionnaire. This is when you can tell me what your teen is ok with. For example, will he/she hug you or your siblings or does he/she meed some space? Is it Ok to hold hands? Can they snuggle with mom and dad? Some kids are ok with these things at home, but not in public. It is OK for them to have boundaries. Having a brief chat with them prior to the session helps with that.
Be Hands Off During The Session
Ok…this is a big one moms. I know you want them to look perfect for the session, but my style is not really rigid and posed. Trust me when I tell you this, nothing kills the vibe of a session more than a mom constantly adjusting her teen’s hair or outfit. I know you mean well, but you also know your child. For most teens, this innocent act is intrusive and will instantly put them in a bad mood. Our goal is to keep them engaged and relaxed, so try to be hands off during the session.
Give Them SOme Space
This branches off the above. Sometimes when I do sibling or individual portraits, I will guide the kids somewhat set back from the parents. This is especially true when I do the solo portraits of the teen. Most of the time they will feel more relaxed about the images because a parent is not looming. It really all depends on the family dynamic and it is a case by case situation.
Typically, I will give them ownership of their portraits by giving them a choice of locations with good lighting. I will also suggest some poses and let them choose. These things can help to engage the teen for more relaxed photos.
Last Minute Tips
Explain to your children why having these photos are important to you and the family. I promise this helps. You can also ask your child if he /she is comfortable with you posting to social media. Sometimes kids at this age are not happy about parents posting photos of them. The bottom line is if your teen feels respected and understands why these photos are important, you are more likely to have a successful session.