Photographing families is always a unique adventure, but when you’re working with a mix of teenagers and a baby, it takes the challenge to a whole new level! Recently, I had the pleasure of capturing a beautiful family in Bendigo with three teens and one adorable baby. Emily, the mum, wanted stunning photos of her kids but didn’t want to be in the photos herself, which allowed us to focus on creating natural, candid moments for the children.
Here are some tips and tricks I learned from this session that can make photographing teens more enjoyable and successful, especially when working with mixed age groups:
1. **Bring Along Fun Props**
Teens can sometimes feel awkward or self-conscious in front of the camera, so having something fun and interactive can work wonders to break the ice. Emily brought along a confetti cannon, which turned out to be a game-changer. The burst of color and surprise loosened everyone up and created natural reactions and genuine laughter.
2. **Encourage Movement**
Stiff, posed photos rarely work well for teens. Instead, I love to incorporate movement into my sessions to help them relax and have fun. Simple prompts like walking together, giving each other a hip bump, or even twirling can bring out authentic smiles and connections between siblings.
3. **Ask About Their Interests**
Teens are much more likely to engage if they feel seen and understood. Before diving into the session, I chatted with them about their hobbies and interests—like sports or favorite activities. Building trust and showing genuine curiosity helped them feel comfortable in front of the lens, and it translated beautifully into the photos.
4. **Have Tools Ready for the Little Ones**
While the baby was easier to manage (because, let’s face it, babies are naturally adorable!), having distractions like Emily’s basket of toys and duckies was a lifesaver. These little tools kept Hugo entertained and added extra charm to the photos.
5. **Focus on Connection**
When working with teens and younger siblings, it’s all about capturing their bond. Whether it’s a playful moment or a quiet, tender interaction, the best photos come from genuine connections. Encouraging the older kids to interact with the baby naturally brought out their nurturing and playful sides, resulting in truly heartwarming images.
Why These Tips Work
Photographing teens is all about making them feel at ease and engaged. By using props, movement, and personal conversations, you can break through the initial awkwardness and create an environment where they can be themselves. For babies, it’s about capturing their spontaneity and keeping them entertained. Balancing these dynamics can feel tricky, but with the right approach, you’ll end up with a collection of photos that beautifully showcase the family’s unique personality and love.
If you’re looking to book a family shoot with teens (and maybe a baby too!), let’s chat about how we can make it a fun and memorable experience for everyone involved!
x
Tanya
