Photographing older children can be a unique challenge. They’re at that in-between stage where they’ve outgrown the giddy silliness of toddlerhood but haven’t yet developed the adult ability to pose naturally on command. As a parent and photographer, I’ve had to learn how to connect with my 9-year-old daughter while taking photos, turning an ordinary session into a time of laughter, comfort, and genuine smiles.
This guide walks you through the techniques I’ve used to keep older kids, especially tweens, joyful and engaged during photoshoots—whether it’s your child or a client’s.
Find the Right Location
The environment plays a big role in setting the tone for a photo session. Last year, I discovered a beautiful open field in Southeast Portland. I didn’t visit it at sunset until recently, and when I finally did, I was amazed by the soft golden tones and tall grass swaying in the evening light. It became the perfect playground for creativity and expression.
Open spaces offer room for exploration, movement, and spontaneity. Kids need room to breathe, run, and interact with their surroundings—and when they have that freedom, their smiles become more natural. The more curious and free they feel, the better your results will be.
Embrace the Unexpected to Get Them Laughing
Older children are often more self-conscious in front of the camera. Breaking that tension with humor can completely change the energy of your session.
In one session, I captured my daughter mid-laughter—an image that remains one of my favorites. The secret? I let go of control. I stood over her, and she started playfully kicking at me, giggling the whole time. It was harmless and spontaneous. I didn’t stop her. I simply kept clicking the shutter and capturing her joy.
Later, I asked her to repeat silly phrases like, “Hi, my name is Chloe. I love unicorns. And I just farted.” It sounds ridiculous, but that’s the point—it worked. She laughed, and I got genuine expressions instead of stiff smiles.
Allow older kids to laugh at themselves, at you, or even at a funny scenario you invent. Laughter opens up a space for real connection, and real connection leads to beautiful photographs.
Let Them Bring Something Meaningful
Sometimes, a meaningful prop can transform the mood of a session. For my daughter, it was her beloved teddy bear—the very first stuffed animal she ever received. It wasn’t just a toy; it was a part of her story. It was chosen by her older brother before she was born, complete with a recorded message inside.
I asked her to hug it, dance with it, smell it, toss it in the air—whatever felt right in the moment. Her interactions with the bear brought out so much warmth and tenderness. It reminded me of how small things can help kids reconnect with their emotions and give them storytelling images that last a lifetime.
Props don’t need to be elaborate. A favorite book, toy, or even a hoodie they love can make all the difference.
Get Them Moving
Movement is a magic ingredient. Whether they’re skipping, spinning, running, or simply whipping their hair back and forth, it brings life to your images.
I let my daughter go wild with movement. She twirled in the grass, flipped her hair, and kicked up the dirt. There were no rules. No forced poses. Just motion. The resulting shots had energy, texture, and joy.
Ask them to race toward you, leap, dance, or pretend they’re superheroes. Movement helps break the stiffness and brings out natural expressions, especially for kids who don’t enjoy sitting still.
Let Them Take Unscripted Breaks
There’s a reason we all need breaks during long activities—and kids are no exception. But during a photo session, a break doesn’t mean you stop shooting. It means giving them space to breathe, relax, and forget that you’re holding a camera.
In one break, my daughter lay on a blanket and picked at weeds. I didn’t direct her. I just observed quietly and captured her in that peaceful state. Those were some of the most intimate, honest frames of the day.
Older children appreciate when you don’t push them constantly. Let go of control for a few minutes. Let them take the lead. You might capture some of the most authentic moments this way.
Encourage Exploration
Nature is a fantastic backdrop because it invites kids to explore. I let my daughter roam through the field while I tried out different creative techniques, including freelensing and ring-of-fire effects.
She crouched behind tall grasses, peeked through them, and paused to examine flowers. All of it added texture and variety to the session. Even if you’re not into advanced photography tricks, just allowing your subject to interact with the environment can give you unexpected magic.
Encourage them to look for bugs, pick flowers, or pretend they’re on an adventure. It fuels their imagination and takes the pressure off.
Let Them Lead the Way
Toward the end of the session, I handed the creative control over to my daughter. She wanted to wear her favorite jacket and glasses, and she posed herself in funny ways she came up with on the spot.
And you know what? The results were amazing. When you give older kids ownership of the shoot, they feel empowered. That confidence shows through in their expressions and body language.
Ask if they have posed ideas, or let them show you their favorite “cool” stance. You’ll get personality-filled photos that they’ll be proud of.
Final Thoughts on Photographing Older Kids
Taking photos of older children—especially when they’re alone—requires a bit more thought and effort. Without a sibling or friend to interact with, you need to become the entertainer, the cheerleader, and the comfort zone all in one.
But if you lean into the silliness, allow for freedom, and involve them in the process, you’ll walk away with not just beautiful images but a fun memory for both of you.
And if you're ever overwhelmed trying to do it all yourself, that’s okay, too. Sometimes it’s easier (and more fun) to be in the photos instead of behind the camera. In that case, reach out to a photographer who loves working with older kids and knows how to keep things light and fun.
Preparing Older Kids Before the Shoot
Getting older children to engage during a photo session often begins well before the actual shoot. Preparation plays a crucial role in how relaxed and cooperative they’ll feel when it’s time to step in front of the camera. The more they understand what to expect, the more comfortable they’ll be.
Talk to your child ahead of time. Let them know what kind of session it will be—where you’re going, what they should wear, and how long it will last. Share the purpose of the shoot. Are the photos for a family album, a birthday, or just for fun? Kids love context, and when they know the ‘why,’ they’re more likely to participate willingly.
If you’re photographing someone else’s child, encourage the parents to prepare them in the same way. They can talk to their child about who they are, show them their work, and describe what a photo session looks like. When the child sees you as a friendly, familiar presence instead of a stranger, the entire experience becomes smoother.
Choosing the Right Time of Day
Every parent knows that kids can be wildly different depending on the time of day. Some children are morning people, while others are happiest after lunch or closer to sunset.
If you’re scheduling a photo session, work around the child’s natural rhythm. For older kids, late afternoon or golden hour often works well. They’ve had time to warm up during the day, they’re not overly tired, and the lighting is stunning.
Avoid times when they’re hungry, exhausted, or have just come home from a long day at school. Hunger and fatigue are the enemies of cooperation. Bring snacks or water if the session is likely to last more than an hour.
A well-timed session creates a calm atmosphere, and calmer kids make better subjects.
Making Older Kids Feel Seen and Heard
Older children want to feel like their opinions matter. They’re growing into their personalities and developing their sense of identity. So when you acknowledge their voice during the session, you create a sense of mutual respect.
Ask them simple questions: Do you like this outfit? Which side do you like better? Should we try a silly pose or a serious one? Even small decisions empower them and increase their willingness to participate.
You’re not handing over complete control, but you’re showing them that they’re an active part of the creative process. That goes a long way in building trust, and that trust shows in their body language.
Using Conversation to Create Connection
Talking with older children while you shoot is one of the most powerful tools you can use. Casual conversation distracts them from the camera, softens their expressions, and draws out real emotion.
You don’t need to ask complicated questions. Just be curious. Ask about their hobbies, favorite YouTubers, recent books they’ve read, or the last movie they watched. Show interest in their world, even if you don’t understand it.
Use humor. Be silly. Laugh at your awkwardness. If you can make them giggle or even roll their eyes in amusement, you're halfway there.
If you sense they’re shy or slow to warm up, lower your voice. Be gentle. Let silence work its way in when needed. Not every moment has to be filled. Some of the most genuine expressions come when a child is simply thinking, not performing.
Dressing for Confidence
Outfits play a surprisingly large role in how confident and relaxed an older child feels during a session. If they’re uncomfortable in their clothes, it will show in every shot.
Let them wear something they love—even if it’s not your first choice. Give them options, but include their preferences. Maybe you bring two backup shirts or jackets and ask them to pick which one they like better.
Avoid stiff, scratchy materials. Choose clothes that reflect their personality but don’t distract from their face. Encourage clean, well-fitting outfits that they feel awesome in.
Accessories like hats, scarves, or shoes can help children feel like themselves. Let them style their hair or bring their favorite pair of sunglasses. These details add to their individuality and boost self-esteem.
Creating a Collaborative Experience
Older kids enjoy experiences that feel collaborative rather than forced. Instead of just telling them what to do, involve them in the process. Share the back of the camera with them. Let them see how cool they look in a candid shot. Ask if they want to try something similar or change it up.
Let them experiment with posing. Say something like, “You can do your version of this pose” or “How would you stand if this were a movie poster?” Give direction, but also offer flexibility.
Even better: allow them to photograph you for a few frames. Flip the script. Let them feel what it’s like to be behind the camera. This creates a sense of fun and gives them a break from being in the spotlight. You’ll be surprised how it shifts the dynamic.
Handling Resistance or Moodiness
Sometimes, even with all the preparation and creative ideas, an older child simply isn’t feeling it. Maybe they’re tired, anxious, or just not in the mood. It’s important to accept that—and not force enthusiasm.
Instead, slow down. Sit with them. Talk. Give them five quiet minutes to collect themselves. Let them know it’s okay to feel grumpy or nervous. You’re not upset with them—you’re there to support them.
You can even acknowledge it with humor: “Looks like today might be a grumpy-face kind of shoot. Let’s capture your best frown.” That invitation might make them laugh.
When kids feel safe emotionally, they’re more likely to come back around. Pushing them will only build a wall between you. Patience is your greatest ally.
Building Trust with Client Families
When photographing someone else’s child, your job extends to building trust with the whole family. Start by establishing open communication with the parents before the session. Ask about their child’s personality, interests, and what kinds of photos they’re hoping to get.
During the session, don’t just direct the child. Compliment them. Speak to them like equals. Avoid the patronizing tone that kids recognize instantly.
If the parent wants to help direct from behind you, politely ask them to let you take the lead—or include them in the fun: “Why don’t you jump in this shot for a few frames?” Often, the child responds better when the energy is relaxed and cooperative.
And always thank the child at the end. Praise their effort. Let them know they did great, even if it was challenging. That validation means a lot to them and to their parents.
Working with Multiple Children
Photographing a single older child is one thing—photographing siblings or cousins adds a whole new layer of complexity. Kids may compete for attention, feel left out, or find it harder to pose together.
Start with individual portraits. Let each child shine on their own. Then move into groupings. Keep it fast and light. Use games to engage them. For example, “Try to bump shoulders without knocking each other down,” or “Let’s see who can make the weirdest face.”
Older kids often enjoy playful sibling rivalry. Capture those authentic expressions and transitions between laughter and seriousness.
End the group session with a reward or a mini-challenge: “Last five photos! Can we get them all done in 30 seconds?” It helps them refocus and push through the final stretch.
Getting Creative with Composition
Once you’ve built trust and energy is flowing, it’s time to play with creative compositions that highlight the child’s individuality. Use leading lines, reflections, or framing to create depth and story.
Place them behind tall grasses or near tree branches to add layers to the shot. Use wide-angle lenses to exaggerate their movement or energy. Get low to the ground to show them towering over the landscape. Older kids love dramatic imagery when it makes them feel confident.
Try shooting through objects—like glass, plastic, or even a prism—to create ethereal effects. Invite the child to help with the creative setup: “What if I shoot through these flowers while you stand there?”
Encourage them to move naturally while you test out unique compositions. This keeps the session feeling less like a job and more like an adventure.
Editing with Intention
When editing photos of older kids, your goal is to highlight their confidence and preserve their youthful essence. Don’t over-edit. Keep skin texture natural and avoid harsh filters that flatten personality.
Choose frames where they’re caught in motion or mid-laugh. Show quiet, thoughtful expressions alongside energetic, joyful ones. This variety helps tell their story honestly.
Use warm tones for family settings and brighter colors for playful sessions. Match your editing style to the mood you captured.
And finally, create a gallery or album that reflects their growth. Include a mixture of close-ups, wide shots, and interactive moments. Older children love seeing themselves not just as pretty subjects, but as real, expressive individuals.
Understanding Personality Types in Older Children
Every child is unique, and when photographing older kids, it’s important to tune into their personality quickly and gently. Some are natural performers who love attention, while others are more reserved and sensitive. Adapting your approach to fit their personality is one of the most valuable skills you can develop as a photographer.
If the child is extroverted, feed off their energy. Let them go big with silly faces, loud laughter, or fun poses. Use that enthusiasm to build momentum. Give challenges like, “Show me your best superhero move,” or “Can you jump higher than last time?”
If the child is introverted, create a quiet space for them to shine. Avoid loud instructions or exaggerated praise. Instead, offer calm encouragement and give them space to warm up. Try reflective moments like sitting in the grass or looking over their shoulder. Soft light and gentle prompts will help bring out their natural expression.
Some children fall somewhere in between—they may open up slowly, test the waters, or shift their energy depending on who’s watching. With these children, patience is key. Watch for cues. Let them guide the tone of the session. And always keep your feedback specific and kind.
The Role of Parents During the Session
Parents can be your biggest allies—or unintentionally make a session more difficult—depending on how they interact with their child during the shoot. Managing this dynamic with grace is essential.
Before the session, have a short conversation with the parent. Let them know that during the shoot, you might ask them to stand aside, not because you’re dismissing their help, but because kids often engage better without parental pressure. Children sometimes behave differently when their parents are watching, especially if there’s a sense of being judged.
If a parent insists on coaching their child (“Smile! Stand up straight!”), Kindly redirect the situation. You could say something like, “Let’s try something different. I’ve got a trick I want to test with them—mind if I take the lead for a few minutes?”
That said, parents can be incredibly helpful when invited into the process. If the child is especially nervous, a few frames with their parent might be comforting. Sometimes, a whispered joke or gentle hug from a parent is all the child needs to relax and smile.
And never underestimate how much a child values hearing their parent say, “You’re doing great, I’m so proud of you.” Capture those moments. Those are often the photos that families treasure the most.
Creating a Session That Tells a Story
A strong photo session isn’t just about capturing good images—it’s about creating a visual narrative that speaks to who the child is at this stage of life.
To build a story-driven session, think about what makes this child unique. What are they into right now? Are they obsessed with collecting rocks, practicing dance routines, reading graphic novels, or skateboarding? Can you incorporate elements of those interests into your shoot?
Maybe it’s a session at their favorite park with their bike, or a backyard setup that includes their art supplies or musical instrument. Storytelling sessions capture more than appearance—they preserve personality and emotion.
You can also use simple sequences to build narrative structure: start with wide establishing shots, move into mid-range lifestyle images, then finish with close-up portraits. Let the child move through small moments—exploring, playing, sitting, thinking.
Photographs that tell a story feel timeless. They give families a glimpse into who their child truly is—and they stand out in a world of stiff, posed images.
Choosing Locations with Storytelling Potential
While a simple background can work, locations with variety give you more room to shape a visual journey. A park with tall trees, long paths, a swing set, and a grassy field will offer far more depth than a blank wall or studio setup.
When scouting locations, look for spots that offer a blend of natural beauty and interaction points: rocks to climb, fences to lean on, trees to run around, or streams to dip hands into.
Urban environments can also be fantastic for storytelling. Think murals, brick walls, old staircases, or quirky alleyways. Let the child’s outfit and personality guide your choice. A kid who loves skateboarding may feel more at home in an industrial setting, while a nature lover may thrive in a quiet forest clearing.
No matter where you go, look for light first. Golden hour (the hour after sunrise or before sunset) remains the most flattering and emotional time of day to shoot. It gives everything a dreamy, soft look—and helps create that timeless feeling so many parents love.
Using Props With Purpose
Props should never be an afterthought. When chosen with care, they can add meaning, movement, and visual interest to your session.
For older kids, props work best when they’re personal and interactive. Here are some thoughtful ideas:
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A book they love
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A musical instrument they’re learning
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A soccer ball, skateboard, or bike
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A journal, notebook, or favorite pen
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A hoodie, hat, or scarf that shows off their style
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A collection (rocks, cards, stuffed animals, shells)
Avoid props that are too trendy or generic. If it doesn’t mean something to the child, it won’t add value to the photo.
You can also bring along minimal, neutral props to enhance natural interaction. Think picnic blankets, flower crowns, or bubbles—simple elements that encourage play but don’t overpower the frame.
When the child interacts with a prop, they forget the camera exists. Their hands are busy, their focus shifts, and that’s when real emotion shows through.
Capturing the Quiet Moments
Not every child is loud, active, or expressive—and that’s a good thing. There is a quiet power in photographing stillness, introspection, and thoughtfulness.
If the child is naturally reserved, let them sit in silence. Don’t feel the need to fill the space with chatter. Let the wind blow through their hair, let them look out across a field, let them lie on a blanket and just breathe.
Close-up shots during quiet moments can be incredibly moving. A soft gaze, a hand resting in the grass, or a dreamy stare into the distance—all of these tell stories, too.
Use soft side lighting to add depth to these scenes. Let shadows fall gently across their face. Don’t rush them. Let them be. Some of the most profound childhood images aren’t joyful—they’re thoughtful. And that’s okay.
Encouraging Imagination and Role Play
One way to engage older kids creatively is through light role play. This doesn’t mean costumes or dress-up, but rather prompting them to imagine different scenarios.
Ask them:
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“Pretend you’re a spy on a secret mission.”
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“You just found out you can fly. What would you do?”
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“You’re the main character in a movie—show me your movie poster pose.”
These types of imaginative prompts break them out of their self-consciousness. Instead of performing as themselves, they take on a character, which often gives them permission to move and express more freely.
The result? Lively, animated, and original photos.
Using Light to Add Emotion
Lighting isn’t just technical—it’s emotional. The way you use light in a session can dramatically influence the feeling of your images.
Golden backlighting adds warmth and softness. Side lighting adds drama and depth. Diffused light on cloudy days can create a muted, nostalgic mood. Let the weather and time of day guide your emotional direction.
For older children, using creative lighting techniques (like rim light or filtered sunlight through trees) can help add visual flair and make them feel like stars of the session.
Let them know when something magical is happening: “The sun is lighting up your hair like gold right now!” Your excitement becomes contagious, and they become more excited to participate.
Giving Direction Without Over-Posing
Older kids, unlike toddlers, can follow directions—but that doesn’t mean they want to be micromanaged. Instead of saying, “Tilt your chin exactly like this,” try giving flexible, open-ended prompts.
Examples:
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“Look down and slowly lift your eyes toward me.”
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“Can you walk slowly while dragging your hand across the grass?”
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“Lean against that tree like it’s your best friend.”
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“Spin in a circle until you laugh.”
This gives them guidance without restriction. It invites authenticity instead of stiff posing.
Keep your instructions fun, short, and encouraging. Use visual words like “melting,” “glowing,” or “floating” to inspire movement and emotion.
Closing the Session with Confidence
The way you end a session matters. It’s your final opportunity to build the child’s confidence and leave a positive impression, especially important if you’re photographing them again in the future.
Wrap up with clear praise: “You were amazing today. I loved how you smiled in that field. You’re a natural.” Let them see a couple of their best shots on your camera screen. It gives them instant feedback and something to look forward to.
Ask if they had fun. If they say yes, tell them you did too. If they seem unsure, ask what they liked best.
End on a high note—with a silly moment, a personal handshake, or a favorite pose of their choice. You want them to leave smiling, not relieved it’s over.
Encouraging Authenticity and Confidence
As children grow older, their awareness of themselves and their surroundings also heightens. While younger kids may naturally pose, older children often become more self-conscious, shy, or even resistant in front of the lens. As a photographer or a parent preparing for the shoot, your approach can make all the difference.
Let Them Take the Lead
Older kids appreciate when they're given control. Letting them suggest a pose, a location within the photo site, or even an idea for a fun shot can flip their attitude from reluctant to excited. When they feel heard and their ideas validated, the likelihood of genuine smiles and engaged expressions increases.
For example, if you’re photographing a 13-year-old who loves basketball, let them bring their favorite ball and pose on the court. Or, for a teen obsessed with books, set up a cozy reading spot. These kinds of personalized touches encourage authenticity and show that the shoot is about them, not just a chore imposed by their parents.
Use Prompts Instead of Poses
One of the most powerful tools for photographing older children is using prompts rather than rigid poses. Instead of instructing, “Smile and look at the camera,” say something like:
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“Think of your favorite memory with your best friend.”
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“Pretend you’re about to tell your sibling the silliest joke ever.”
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“Close your eyes and imagine you just won a trip anywhere in the world.”
These prompts evoke real emotion, and teens often enjoy the playful or imaginative side of this method. It not only captures a smile, but also lights up their entire expression, giving you natural and emotive images.
Navigating the Awkward Stage
The teenage years can be a delicate time. Many kids are in transition—not quite children anymore, but not yet adults. Their sense of identity is evolving, and they may be hypersensitive about their appearance. Here’s how to navigate that with empathy and professionalism.
Avoid Over-Complimenting Appearance
While it’s natural to say things like, “You look beautiful!” or “What a handsome smile,” this can make self-conscious teens feel more uncomfortable. Instead, compliment their energy, their style, or how cool their idea for a pose was. Comments like “You’ve got great style” or “That was an awesome shot idea” feel more respectful and empowering.
Be Aware of Insecurities
As the photographer, it’s crucial to be discreet about known insecurities. If a parent privately shares that their teen is self-conscious about braces or acne, you can use subtle angles, soft lighting, and lens depth to gently minimize without erasing authenticity. Never draw attention to these things aloud during the shoot.
Editing with Care and Consent
Post-processing for older children should reflect their age and personality. Over-editing can make the image look unnatural and may even upset the teen if their edited version looks unlike them. Light retouching, such as softening skin or removing temporary blemishes, is acceptable, but always strive to maintain the integrity of who they are.
When working on edits for older children or teens:
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Adjust skin tones naturally and evenly.
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Retouch only minor distractions unless otherwise requested.
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Maintain the natural texture of skin—avoid the plastic-smooth look.
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Keep hair and eye color accurate unless stylized versions are requested.
Whenever possible, if you know the client is sensitive or mature enough to want input, allow the teen to preview a few selects and give feedback. It fosters trust and respect for their autonomy.
Handling Group Photos with Older Kids
If you're working with multiple children—say, siblings of various ages—you’ll need to balance energy levels. Young children may be restless or hyperactive, while older ones may prefer calm and cool expressions.
Assign “Roles” in the Photo
Give each child a “photo personality” to portray for a few shots. For example, the eldest may be the “wise protector,” the middle child the “adventurer,” and the youngest the “fun maker.” Teens often like the idea of showing who they are through character roles rather than staged smiles.
This method can help organize the group dynamic without making anyone feel awkward. Older children, especially, appreciate being cast in a role that recognizes their age and maturity.
Give Older Kids a Moment Alone
In family shoots, set aside time to photograph the older child on their own. They’re often overshadowed by younger siblings who demand more attention. These solo shots can boost their confidence and make them feel like an important part of the session.
You can even use this time to get creative with backdrops, wardrobe changes, or props that represent their current interests, like music, sports, or reading.
Including Their Passions and Personalities
Every child is different, and by the time they reach 9, 12, or 15, they’ve begun to shape their identity. Use that to your advantage in creating a unique and memorable photo session.
Passion Projects and Hobbies
Encourage the inclusion of musical instruments, skateboards, art supplies, favorite books, or even a beloved pet. Not only does this create more dynamic visuals, but it also helps older children feel represented and proud of their individuality.
Clothing Choices That Reflect Them
Whenever possible, allow them to have a say in their outfit. If your client’s 14-year-old is dead set on wearing a denim jacket and black boots while the family prefers pastels, consider compromising with layered shots. Start with the coordinated outfit, then move into their style. You’ll likely get better smiles when they’re comfortable in their skin.
Prepping Parents for Success
Much of a successful shoot with older children comes down to how well the parents are prepared to support—not control—their child’s participation.
Encourage Autonomy and Trust
Before the shoot, talk to parents about the importance of letting their child take the lead. Older children respond better when they don’t feel pushed. If a parent constantly corrects posture or insists on smiles, it can trigger resistance or anxiety.
Gently remind parents:
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Let your child warm up to the photographer.
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Avoid giving constant instructions during the shoot.
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Praise their cooperation without comparing to siblings.
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Give space for them to be who they are.
Keep the Experience Positive
The more enjoyable the experience, the more excited older children will be to do it again in the future. If they walk away from the session feeling empowered, creative, and respected, it won’t feel like a chore next time.
Create a comfortable environment by:
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Let them play their favorite music during the shoot.
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Incorporating movement and action-based shots (jumping, walking, laughing).
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Ending the shoot with something fun—a silly pose, a candid photo, or even a group selfie with the photographer.
Wrapping Up With Delivery
After the shoot, how you share the photos matters. If the older child was deeply involved in the process, consider giving them a preview set or a digital copy they can share with friends. It shows that you respected their role and effort.
You can also:
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Send a personalized thank-you note addressed to the child.
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Mention how impressed you were with their ideas or posing.
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Offer a small “sneak peek” of their best portrait on social media (with parental permission).
This kind of positive reinforcement builds confidence and appreciation, and makes them more likely to return for future sessions.
Conclusion
Photographing older children doesn’t have to be a challenge—it can be a rewarding and creative experience for everyone involved. With the right preparation, empathy, and flexibility, you can draw out genuine expressions, confidence, and joy from tweens and teens alike.
By focusing on connection, giving them room to express themselves, and involving them in the process, you’re not just capturing smiles—you’re documenting a beautiful and pivotal moment in their growing journey. These photos will serve as a reminder not just of how they looked, but of how they felt—confident, seen, and proud to be themselves.
As a photographer, your goal is to create more than just an image. You’re creating an experience that boosts self-esteem, fosters connection, and results in timeless portraits filled with real emotion.
The next time you work with an older child, remember: they don’t just want to be photographed. They want to be understood. And when they are, the camera captures so much more than just a face—it captures a story.