From "Do I have to?" to "Take one of me!" How to Make Family Photos Fun for Teenagers
- Sarah Blevin
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
When I first met this Rockhampton family, their 13-year-old son made it very clear he was not in the mood for photos. You know that look, arms crossed, polite but distant, silently counting down the minutes until it was over. His dad later told me, "He thought it was going to be all about smiling at the camera. He didn’t realise it could actually be fun."
Meeting Families Where They’re At
As a family photographer in Rockhampton, I hear it often: "My teenager’s not going to want to do this."
And honestly? I get it. Teens value their independence, they don’t always want to be told what to do, and "family photos" can sound like a chore. That’s why my sessions are never about forcing smiles or stiff poses.
When this family arrived, I explained that they weren’t here to "perform" for the camera. They were here to spend time together. We would play some games. Maybe share some music. Move around. Laugh. Connect.
The Shift
Once the pressure was gone, something changed. We wandered. They played. They teased each other. I gave gentle guidance when needed but mostly let them just be themselves.
By halfway through, this same teenage boy was saying, "Hey, can you get one of me doing this?" He hugged his mum. He even pulled his sister in for a photo. The energy shifted from reluctant to genuinely joyful.
Afterwards, his dad told me, "We felt more connected than we have in a long time. It wasn’t just a photo session, it was an afternoon we’ll remember."
Why This Matters
Family photos aren’t about perfect smiles. They’re about capturing the way you are together, right now, even if that means a little chaos, a little stubbornness, and a lot of personality.
If you’re worried your teenager won’t play along, I want you to know I’ve been there. I’ve seen those crossed arms turn into real laughter. All it takes is the right space, the right approach, and permission to be themselves.
Ready to Capture Your Crew?
If you’re looking for a family photographer in Rockhampton who can capture your crew, even the tricky teens, in a way that feels real, I’d love to make it happen. Your family’s connection is worth remembering exactly as it is today.
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