Why You Should Book A Family Photoshoot With Your Teenage Kids
The desire to photograph families with teenage kids came about when I was looking through my own childhood photo album. There were plenty of pictures from my early childhood but as soon as I hit secondary school age, there was practically no family photos apart from big groups shots at family gatherings. There is something so special about the teenage years and it’s not just the baby years that pass in the blink of an eye. Here’s why booking a family photoshoot with your teenage kids is an incredibly valuable investment:
1. Freeze A Moment In Time
Teenage years are transformative. So much is happening in this time, from moving schools, graduating, gaining first work experience, first loves, first heartbreaks, developing deep friendships etc. A professional photoshoot allows you to capture their essence at this moment. Their personalities, their quirks, and their smiles frozen in time, creating memories to look back on forever.
2. Quality Family Time
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, quality family time can often take a backseat. Your kids are probably prioritising time with their friends over a family movie night and that’s okay. But a photoshoot provides an opportunity for the entire family to spend time together, creating lasting memories in the process. The session could take place in your home over making lunch together, playing a board game or outdoors grabbing a coffee, going for a walk, playing your favourite sports etc.
4. Boost Their Confidence
The changes our bodies go through in teenage years can be really challenging in terms of self-esteem. A professional photoshoot can boost your teenager’s confidence. It’s my job to find the best light, make them feel relaxed and capture their natural beauty giving them a confident boost.
5. Create a Legacy
Family photos are not just for the present; they are a part of your legacy. They are the images that future generations will look at to understand their roots. Having photographs with your teenage kids captures a unique chapter in your family’s history. These pictures will be cherished by your children when they become adults, and eventually, by their children too.
6. See Your Teenagers Flourish
I’m not gonna lie, I was nervous at my first shoot with teenage kids. I typically photograph babies to pre-schoolers - a very different dynamic. But I find that with humour and by treating your teenage kids like adults during the session really makes them come out of their shell. You’ll be surprised how they will warm up and take part. The good thing about teenagers is that they will want the images of themselves to look nice, so they will listen to guidance. I do think it’s important to allow them to bring in their ideas too and part of the session is more documentary where I don’t give much direction at all.
7. Create Lasting Art for Your Home
Do you still have baby pictures of your kids on the wall but nothing recent? Do visitors come into your house thinking there’s still toddler running wild based on the wall art? Maybe it’s time for a re-fresh. I’m not saying take the baby pictures down but add your present to the walls. Transform your house into a home that is filled with memories from then and now.
In conclusion, a family photoshoot with your teenage kids is not just about the pictures; it’s about the experience, the memories created during the session, and the lasting impact these images will have on your family. So, don’t hesitate. Book a photoshoot, capture those beautiful moments. After all, in the end, it’s the memories we create that truly define our lives.
I'm Maria O’Connor, a family & newborn photographer based in South West London, England. I am a mum of two boys and love capturing natural family moments in my clients’ homes. Are you ready to get in the frame? Contact me today!
