As parents we often take thousands of photos of our children when they're under 12, but it seems that once they become teenagers (read: self-conscious) we tend to stop photographing them. They often take a ton of photos of themselves, but we don't want you to think that your photos aren't important, because though the teen years can feel awkward, they are also beautiful and rewarding to photograph.
And before you know it - your teens will be launching out on their own, and you'll be an empty nester. It happens incredibly fast. Photos are the closest we can come to time travel...
If we haven't convinced you yet, here are more reasons that you should photograph your teens:
Unfiltered Authenticity: Sure, teenagers might be a tad camera-shy, but isn't that just another layer of their gloriously authentic selves? That hesitant grin, the eye roll, the shy glance—it's all part of their unique charm. Those perfectly polished Instagram shots might garner likes, but there's something inherently beautiful in capturing your teen just as they are, bedhead and all. These are the moments that they (and we) will look back on and realize that their journey was beautifully imperfect, just like everyone else's.
Confidence in Every Snapshot: Here's the secret sauce—when you snap a photo that reflects your child's genuine personality, passions and style, it's like their inner cheerleader gets a megaphone, shouting, "You're awesome just the way you are!" Those candid shots capture their resilience, their quirks, and their ever-evolving identity. Plus, seeing themselves through the eyes of a photographer (or the magical parent behind the lens) can be a powerful mirror that reflects back their growth and potential.
The Pro Touch: Now, let's talk about the game-changer: hiring a professional photographer (hopefully me!). Think of it as a confidence-boosting spa day, but without the cucumbers on their eyes. A professional knows how to capture your teen's best angles, without making them feel like they're auditioning for a reality show. I'm skilled in creating an environment where your teen feels relaxed and valued. After all, not everyone can be a social media influencer, and that's a good thing! Our teens deserve to feel gorgeous and worthy just as they are, minus the over-the-top filters and ridiculous poses.
Here are some of my best tips for photographing teens:
- Natural and Candid: Capture them when they're engaged in their favorite activities or lost in thought. When they're engaged in a favorite hobby they often reveal their most authentic selves and will find it easier to ignore the camera.
- Compliment Corners: Create an atmosphere where genuine compliments flow freely. Watch their self-consciousness melt away when they feel appreciated. Tell them that you find them beautiful and that they will appreciate the photos when they're older, even if they don't now.
- Fashion Show: Encourage them to showcase their style. Let them curate their outfits for the shoot. When they feel confident in their appearance, it radiates through the photos.
- Animal House: include the pets - teens can't help themselves when they're with their favorite creatures, and you're sure to get some genuine moments.
- Behind-the-Scenes Agreement: Assure them that for every "perfect" shot, there will be a few funny outtakes. This sets the tone for a relaxed photoshoot. Also reassure them that you won't post any photos of them on social media or share without their permission.
So, there you have it—the art of photographing self-conscious teens isn't just about capturing a pretty face. It's about freezing moments of growth, resilience, and self-discovery. It's a journey toward building confidence, embracing uniqueness, and celebrating imperfections. And if that involves a bit of goofy posing and heartfelt laughter, well, that's what makes the story all the more beautiful.
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