THE BLOG

Photographing families with teenagers is not a scary as it sounds! I feel like people really stress out about capturing teens but I am here to tell you that it is fun and rewarding!

As a photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of working with families who understand my work and understand the importance of capturing genuine connections. Contrary to popular stereotypes, teenagers are often more tender and in need of affection and connection than we realize.

I am going to share some valuable tips for successfully photographing families with teenagers, encouraging genuine moments of love and togetherness.

1. Embrace closeness and connection: Just like with families of younger children, it’s crucial to encourage closeness and connection during the photoshoot. Don’t hesitate to ask family members to hug or hold hands, as this can evoke a sense of warmth and intimacy. Families who see my portfolio are attracted to my style that focuses on love and connection so they naturally tend to have a close-knit bond and will readily embrace these suggestions. By capturing these genuine expressions of love, you’ll create images that truly resonate with both the family and the viewers.

2. Challenge stereotypes: Teenagers often get a bad reputation, and stereotypes may suggest that they shy away from affection or dislike being photographed. However, I invite you to challenge these assumptions and approach each session with an open mind. Take the time to get to know the teenagers and their interests, allowing them to feel comfortable and valued. When they sense your genuine interest, they’ll be more likely to let their guard down and show their authentic selves during the photoshoot.

3. Foster a relaxed and inclusive environment: Creating a relaxed and inclusive environment is crucial for teenagers to feel at ease. Encourage them to be themselves and participate in the photoshoot in a way that feels natural to them. Provide guidance and suggestions, but also give them the freedom to express their individuality. By fostering an environment of acceptance and understanding, you’ll enable them to showcase their true personalities, resulting in more genuine and memorable photographs.

4. Focus on capturing emotions: Teenagers go through a myriad of emotions, and this can be an opportunity to capture their unique journeys. Encourage them to express their feelings and emotions during the shoot. Whether it’s laughter, joy, or even moments of vulnerability, strive to capture these authentic emotions. Never make a teen smile or act in a way they aren’t comfortable. The resulting images will tell a powerful story of their teenage years, providing a timeless and cherished memento for the family.

5. Be patient and flexible: Teenagers can be unpredictable, and it’s essential to be patient and adaptable during the session. Allow them space to express themselves and be willing to adjust your plans if needed. By demonstrating flexibility and understanding, you’ll build trust and encourage their active participation. Remember, the best photographs often arise from spontaneous and unscripted moments.

Photographing families with teenagers is a wonderful opportunity to capture authentic moments of love, connection, and growth. By embracing closeness, challenging stereotypes, fostering a relaxed environment, focusing on emotions, and maintaining patience and flexibility, you can create a memorable and meaningful collection of photographs. Remember, every teenager is unique, so adapt your approach to suit their individual personalities. So, the next time you photograph a family with teenagers, approach it with an open heart and watch how their genuine affection and connections unfold before your lens.