5 Tips for Family Photos with Teenagers
With Dublin, Ohio family photographer Heart Sung Photography
Let’s face it, getting your teens to participate in a family photography session can be tricky business. They’re less inclined to be excited about having their photo taken, to hug their parents in public, to smile. But that doesn’t mean you should forego the photo session altogether. 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 Dublin, Ohio 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.
Allow teens to be themselves
Try to resist forcing them to wear their hair a certain way or choosing their outfit. They’ll be much more excited about the photos if they feel they can express themselves honestly and whatever way they’re most comfortable. We want to capture authenticity, after all. If having a cohesive wardrobe is super-important to you, give them a palette or color “guide” and allow them to figure out the rest of their look.
2. No forced smiles
Asking teens to smile for photos will only get you one thing: a very forced, fake smile that won’t photograph well.
I try to capture them as they truly are, which is typically surly, sarcastic, bored and moody. Once they realize they don’t have to smile, they typically relax a bit, at which point I might suggest a game or have a silly prompt that brings out genuine laughter. Sometimes bringing the family pet or younger siblings along for them to play with loosens them up too. They are still kids after all, and most teens have a silly side hiding within :)
3. Give them something to do
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. I’ll also ask for their assistance with taking behind-the-scenes photos for me, holding a reflector, or getting younger siblings to laugh.
4. Figure out their comfort level
Is your teen okay with hugging you and/or younger siblings in photos, or would they be more comfortable with an arm around their shoulder during family photos?
I find that asking them to kiss/be kissed by a parent is a step too far, but usually a hug or hand holding is okay. It’s important to have a quick conversation before the session to find out their comfort level. They may still love to snuggle Mom at home, but not in public ;)
5. Take teens away from the group
During a family photography session I make sure to get individual images of each child. If possible I’ll guide teenagers away from the group, so that they don’t feel they’re being scrutinized.
This is a good opportunity to let them take control. I’ll ask if there’s a spot around the location that they think is cool, or I’ll describe an idea I have for a unique or creative portrait. Letting them feel like an active participant gets them excited for the photo.
BONUS (for parents): Have a conversation with your teen about boundaries
Explain to your child why taking their photo is so important to you. Working together, come up with some photography ground rules that allow them to feel in control and respected, while allowing you to capture the child you’ll always adore.
You can discuss things like: when is it okay to take their photo (at home but not in public, when they’re doing an activity but not posing, etc), how often is it okay to take their photo, and what happens to the photo afterwards. Can you post it on social media or keep it just for you (this is typically a case-by-case situation)? Will they willingly participate in an annual professional photo session or do they need a little bribery? You get the idea. Conversations lead to understanding, and hopefully your teen will understand why this is important to you and feel respected with regard to their boundaries.
Looking for a family photographer in or near Dublin, Ohio to capture your teenager? Let’s chat to see if we’d be a good fit for one another.
You may also like:
What’s a session with me like?
