Newport Beach Family Photographer – Session with Teenagers
CAPTURING REAL SMILES WITH TEENAGERS ON LIDO ISLE
Photographing families with teenagers requires a different approach than chasing toddlers. You can't bribe them with candy, and forced poses feel awkward instantly. For the Malis family session on Lido Isle, we focused on activity and connection. By walking the docks, leaning on the canoe racks, and including their dogs, we kept the energy relaxed. The result is a gallery of genuine smiles from high schoolers—something every parent cherishes.
Why Lido Isle Works for Families with Teens
THE "ANTI-POSE" APPROACH
The biggest fear families have with teenagers is that the photos will look stiff or forced. Lido Isle solves this with its layout. Instead of standing in a field smiling at the camera, we walked the boardwalks and docks. This constant movement keeps the energy relaxed and allows for natural conversation, resulting in expressions that feel genuine, not pained.
NAUTICAL & EDITORIAL VIBES
Teens often outgrow the "running in the grass" park look. Lido offers a more mature, editorial backdrop. The canoe racks, industrial dock pilings, and sleek boats provide cool textures that make the session feel more like a magazine shoot than a standard family portrait. It gives them props to lean on and interact with naturally.
HARBOR SUNSETS
The lighting on the harbor at sunset is unmatched. It reflects off the water, creating a clean, flattering glow that everyone loves. Whether we are sitting on a boat or standing at the edge of the dock, this setting creates a peaceful atmosphere where even the most reluctant siblings (or fathers!) tend to let their guard down.
Related Sessions
BISHOP FAMILY
JEFFREY OPEN SPACE TRAIL
PFEIFFER FAMILY
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO TRAIN STATION
MALIS FAMILY ‘23
LIDO ISLAND
Frequently Asked Questions
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The key is removing the "cringe" factor. I don't force awkward hugs or cheesy smiles. Instead, we focus on movement and interaction—walking the docks, leaning against railings, or playing with the dog. I treat it more like an editorial lifestyle shoot than a traditional family portrait, which helps them relax and look cool rather than stiff.
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Avoid the matching "white shirts and jeans" look. Let your teens wear clothes they actually feel confident in. Layering textures (knits, denim, jackets) adds visual interest. If they feel good in their outfit, they will be much more willing to participate and smile naturally.
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Unlike the beach, where the prompt is often "run and splash," Lido Isle offers architectural props. The docks, canoe racks, and walkways give teenagers something to lean on or interact with. It provides a mature, nautical backdrop that feels grounded and stylish, rather than playful and young.
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Yes! Bringing the family dog is actually my #1 hack for photographing teens. It gives them something to focus on other than the camera. Interacting with the dog brings out natural, unguarded smiles that are hard to get otherwise.
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If you have access to one, absolutely. As you can see with the Malis family, sitting on a boat keeps everyone contained but relaxed. It naturally positions the family close together without feeling forced. If you don't have a boat, we can use the public docks to get a very similar "on-the-water" look.