How to Get Older Children Involved in Your Family Photo Shoot

Let’s Be Honest – Older Children Aren’t Always Thrilled at the Prospect of Family Photos

Suggest a family photo shoot to your teen or tween and you’ll probably get a look that says, “You’ve got to be joking.” That's completely normal.

They’re at that age where posing for photos doesn’t sound like fun. But with the right approach it doesn’t have to be a battle.

Here are a few tips I always share with families looking for natural family photo shoot ideas for older kids and teens.

1. Let Them Help Plan the Session

Older children love independence, so get them involved early on. Let them have a say in what they wear, which location they like best, or even what time works for them.

Giving them a bit of ownership makes your outdoor family photography session feel more like a collaboration than a chore.

2. Choose a Relaxed, Outdoor Location

Teens are much more likely to feel comfortable somewhere natural – such as fields, woodland walks or beaches. These are ideal spots for family photo shoots because they’re beautiful and not too “posey”, with plenty of beautiful locations to choose around Ashford or elsewhere in Kent.

I work mostly outdoors, capturing families just being themselves – and that atmosphere helps everyone (especially older kids) to relax.

3. Keep Things Light and Unposed

Forget stiff posing. The best moments come from walking, chatting, and having a giggle together. That’s when I capture the most genuine images – the kind of photos that feel like you.

As a candid family photographer, I’ll gently guide you, but there’s no pressure and definitely no “say cheese” moments.

4. Make Space for Their Personality

Whether they’re into football, fashion, music or just chilling with the dog – let them bring a bit of themselves into the session. This is their story too, and we want the photos to reflect who they really are.

These small touches make a big difference to how connected they feel during your family photo shoot.

5. A Little Incentive Goes a Long Way

Let’s be honest – teenagers are often more motivated by food than photos. A post-shoot trip for a milkshake or something they love can work wonders.

Plus, you can make a day of it and it turns the experience into a proper family memory and a chance to connect further and reflect, not just a ticked box.

6. Keep It Short and Sweet

Most of my outdoor family photo sessions are short and easy-going, I don't believe in dragging it out when I can get plenty of lovely family photos in a short session. I like to aim for that beautiful golden hour light – which only lasts so long anyway – and that’s when the best, most relaxed shots happen.

Final Thoughts

Older children might not be jumping for joy at the idea of a photo shoot – but with the right atmosphere, it can be fun and full of real moments and natural connection.

And years down the line, they’ll thank you for capturing this stage of life – even if they won’t admit it now.

Looking for a Relaxed Family Photographer in Ashford or the wider Kent area?

I specialise in natural, outdoor family photography in Kent, creating sessions that feel more like a chilled walk than a formal photo shoot.

If you’re ready to capture your people just as they are – teenagers, grumpy faces and all – I’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch via the contact form on the website, or takenbyjessphotography@gmail.com to start planning your family photo shoot this Spring/Summer.