tips for helping teens feel comfortable in front of the camera
As the back-to-school season approaches, many parents are thinking about capturing memories with family photos or scheduling senior portraits. However, if you have a teen at home, the idea of posing for photos might not be something they’re thrilled about. The good news is that with a few simple strategies, you can help your teen feel more comfortable and confident in front of the camera, ensuring that the experience is enjoyable and the photos are meaningful.
As a photographer, my job isn’t just to take pictures—it’s to capture the essence of the person in front of the camera. I want each session to reflect the unique personality of my clients, especially teens who may feel a bit uncertain about the process. Here are a few tips I share with parents to help your teen feel more at ease during the photo session.
1. Make It a Collaborative Experience
Teens often feel more comfortable when they have a say in the process. Before the session, take time to ask your teen what they envision for their photos. Do they have a favorite outfit or a specific location in mind? Are they into sports, music, or art? These personal touches can help them feel more connected to the session. When teens feel like they’re involved, they’re more likely to relax and enjoy the experience.
2. Choose a Comfortable Environment
Location plays a significant role in how relaxed your teen will feel during their session. If they’re uncomfortable in a studio or a very posed setting, consider doing the session somewhere they feel at home—perhaps in a park, on the beach, or even in your backyard. A familiar environment allows your teen to move more freely and gives the photos a more natural, genuine feel. As a photographer, I always look for locations that will make my clients feel at ease and allow their personalities to shine through.
3. Focus on Natural Poses
One of the most common concerns I hear from parents is that their teens don’t know how to pose. Fortunately, my job is to guide them through the process without making them feel stiff or unnatural. Instead of traditional posed shots, I encourage teens to interact with their environment—whether that’s walking, sitting casually, or even just laughing with their family members. These moments tend to capture real emotion and show their true personality.
4. Allow for Breaks and Candid Moments
While I work hard to create a relaxed atmosphere, it’s also important to give your teen space when needed. A photo session doesn’t have to be long or intense. Taking breaks, letting them check in with their phone, or even just chatting between shots can help ease any tension. I also love to capture candid moments—when the teen isn’t thinking about the camera, that’s often when the best shots happen. Genuine smiles and expressions emerge when teens can be themselves, so I always make sure there’s room for spontaneity.
5. Build Confidence Through Positivity
Finally, keep the mood light and positive throughout the session. Compliment your teen on their natural beauty, their creativity, or the fun moments you share during the shoot. Positive reinforcement helps them feel more confident in their own skin, which ultimately shows in the photos. A positive experience with a photographer can also make future sessions easier and more enjoyable.
Back to School: A Perfect Time for Family and Senior Photos
As school starts up again, it’s the ideal time to capture family moments or senior portraits. Senior year is a milestone that deserves to be remembered, and a great set of photos can become a cherished keepsake for years to come. Whether your teen is feeling excited or a little nervous about their session, I work hard to make sure they feel comfortable and empowered in front of the camera.
It’s also a great time for family portraits, as the start of a new school year often brings families together for a fresh round of photos. These photos are a beautiful way to celebrate your family’s connection and create lasting memories that you can treasure for years.
Ready to book your session? Click here and let’s get you on the calendar! Whether you’re looking for high school senior portraits or a fun family shoot, I’d love to help capture your family’s unique story. Get in touch today, and let’s make sure you have stunning photos that reflect your teen’s personality and your family’s bond.