Six Tips for Photographing Teenagers

As a portrait photographer, I welcome families with teenagers. I look at it as an opportunity to engage a young adult who is not running away from me at the beach as toddlers may do. Instead, I look for a line of communication that will inspire the teenager to humor me and his family in the often required portrait session. I have six suggestions to help make the portrait session a success.

1. Clothing: I have a clothing guideline for families where the suggestions apply to teenagers; however it’s important for them to also bring some of their favorite outfits. They’re at the age where their idea of the “traditional portrait” might not necessarily be in line their parent’s idea. It’s important to have clothing options.

2. Treat them like adults: Enter conversation to engage them in topics they are interested in. Are they involved with sports? Music? Computers? Reading? Find a common ground.

3. Engage them in an activity they enjoy: For beach photography, I often ask parents what sports their kids enjoy. Do they play football, baseball, or frisbee? Do they like to swim, boogie board or surf? Maybe they still like making huge sand castles. Find out what they like and have them bring along their toys. Any way I can get them to be engaged in an activity of their choice, I will probably be able make candid natural looking photographs.

4. The Shy or Unsmiling Teenager: Not every photograph has to have the subject looking at the camera or smiling. I love a pensive reflective look. There is always the imagined “GQ” pose for guys where a smile would be laughed at. I like to let them be themselves. Forced smiles never look good. Kids with braces can be too embarrassed and feel there non-smile look is best. Never force a “smile”. Candid photographs from the side can reveal the true personality too.

5. The Unexpected: Sometimes I ask them what they would like to do? This group of boys all jumped up in the air. They thought it was hilarious and it turned out to be a nice photograph as well. Do something unexpected. Ask for the ridiculous if necessary.

6. Speed: These kids are smart, keep things moving. Don’t linger long in one place or overwork one idea. They will lose interest fast.

The art of photographing teenagers requires grace and tact. These young adults are striving to have their own unique style and sense about the world. As a portrait photographer, I want to reveal who they are at this time in their lives. Their long hair, torn jeans, earrings and hobbies are part of their identity . It’s important to have fun together and create beautiful photographs with pleasant memories.