How can you create a memorable keepsake photograph of your teenager? Read on!
Photography studios are full of pictures of babies and brides. Not so often do you see pictures of teens. It seems most people feel teenagers are too moody, acne-covered or simply too busy with activities to be getting their photo taken for anything other than a Myspace page.
But do you really want the only picture of your child as a teen to be her senior school portrait? What are some ways parents can capture the unique stage of life where teens teeter on the edge of becoming adults?
Set Aside Time With Teen
Like any piano lesson, soccer practice or school dance, you’ll need an appointment with your teen in order to have dedicated time to get a good photo. Choose a relaxed time and atmosphere. A weeknight after everyone’s stressful day isn’t going to produce heirloom-quality photos. Late on a Saturday morning when the teen is more likely to be relaxed might be better. Ask them!
Use Black and White
Black and white film, or using the black and white setting on your digital camera, will produce the most dramatic images. You really see the teen’s face when the distractions of hair color and background are not present.
Use a Comfortable Setting
Photographing teens in their own comfort zone- their bedroom, near their car, or in a favorite park or field is a great idea. Let your teen pick where the photos will be taken! Even having a favorite pet or familiar object in the shot is a good idea if it makes the teen comfortable.
Listen to the Pros
Bill Hurter’s book The Best of Teen and Senior Portrait Photography: Techniques and Images from the Pros (Amherst Media, 2003) is a treasure trove of fantastic ideas for capturing your teen’s spirit on film. Top senior portrait photographers from around the country are featured, and their techniques and methods are worth examining in order to improve your own photo quality.
If All Else Fails: Bribe Them!
If there’s one thing parents of teens know, it’s the power of a good bribe. A shopping trip to the mall, money for a new video game, or other favored activity just might do the trick when it comes to getting your teen on board for a photo. Perhaps a new outfit is just what the doctor ordered to get your teen on board for a big grin.
Most of all- enjoy it! Time with your teens may be short as they move on toward adulthood.
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