When it comes to family sessions, there’s something special about working with families with teens. This stage of life brings a dynamic energy that’s different from the early years. It’s a time when personalities shine, and capturing the bond between parents and their teens can make for some truly memorable and heartfelt images. For this session, we headed to the beautiful University of Tampa, a location that’s rich with architectural charm and lush scenery — the perfect backdrop for a family with teenagers!

Why the University of Tampa?

The University of Tampa (UT) is one of those locations that has it all: stunning historic buildings, open green spaces, and that signature Tampa vibe. The iconic minarets of Plant Hall offer a striking, historic aesthetic that complements the vibrancy of family life. Whether we’re walking along the brick pathways or setting up shots under the palm trees, the scenery adds a unique touch of sophistication to the photos without losing that relaxed, Floridian feel.

Teens, with their sense of adventure and budding independence, seem to enjoy this spot, and it offers enough variety to keep the shoot engaging and fun. The blend of old-world charm and modern campus energy is perfect for capturing the essence of these transitional years — where kids are growing into adults, but family is still at the heart of their journey.

Embracing Teenage Personality in Photos

Photographing teens is all about letting their personalities shine through. It’s a balance between giving them the freedom to express themselves while still creating moments that highlight the family dynamic. During the session, I always encourage some solo shots of each teen to capture who they are in this moment — their interests, their style, their confidence. At UT, we have the flexibility to use different backgrounds that match each teen’s unique vibe, from the modern lines of the campus structures to the laid-back greenery of the Riverwalk.

Of course, family shots are just as important! Whether it’s a playful moment of everyone laughing or a more serious portrait capturing the family’s bond, these images are ones families cherish for years to come. With teens, I love creating a mix of posed shots and candid moments — maybe a quiet stroll down a sun-dappled path or a spontaneous laugh shared between siblings. The energy teens bring often results in those in-between moments where the magic really happens.

Styling for a Teen-Focused Family Session

Styling is key when it comes to family sessions with teens. You want to coordinate, but not overly match. At the University of Tampa, you have the freedom to go a bit dressy or for a more casual yet chic look that complements the historic and modern elements of the location. Think flowy dresses for the girls, casual button-downs, or sleek tees and jeans for the boys — and don’t forget to let them incorporate pieces that reflect their personal style. After all, teens have a way of making fashion their own, and it’s important to let that individuality come through in the photos.

Pro Tips for Families with Teens

Here are a few tips to make the most of your family session, especially if your kids are in their teen years:

1. Let them bring a prop: Whether it’s a skateboard, musical instrument, or even a book, incorporating something that speaks to their current interests can make for fun, personalized shots.
2. Give them some creative control: Teens love to feel involved. Ask them what kind of photos they’d like to take — whether it’s a dramatic shot in front of Plant Hall or a casual one by the riverfront. Giving them a voice in the process often helps them relax and enjoy the session more.
3. Don’t stress about perfection: Teens aren’t always into traditional poses, and that’s okay! Sometimes the best photos come from those unplanned moments. Let the session be natural, and don’t worry too much if every hair is in place.
4. Encourage fun family interaction: Whether it’s a group hug, a playful tickle fight, or even just a walk together, letting loose will bring out genuine emotions that translate into beautiful, heartfelt images.

Wrapping Up at UT

The University of Tampa is a photographer’s dream when it comes to family sessions with teens. The combination of historical beauty and modern vibrancy reflects the mix of nostalgia and excitement that often accompanies this stage in family life. For families with teens, it’s the perfect location to capture this unique time of growth, change, and togetherness.

As your family heads into these later years with your teens, don’t miss the opportunity to document the evolving dynamics. You’ll cherish these images not just for the memories of this season, but for the story they tell about your family’s journey together.