Typically, family photography focuses on families with young children. It often starts with a maternity session, moves to a newborn session, and continues with regular family sessions as the kids grow. But something funny happens as kids reach their preteen and teenage years—you start seeing fewer family photos. Why is that, I wonder? Maybe it’s because they’ve outgrown that irresistible cuteness, or maybe they’re starting to feel “too cool” to be in front of the camera.
Those big, toothy grins and unguarded giggles give way to shy smiles or playful smirks, and suddenly, they’re ducking out of photos or rolling their eyes when the camera comes out. It’s easy to think that once the “cute” phase is over, the photo-worthy moments fade—but there’s so much beauty in capturing this in-between stage, too.
When my own kids reached that stage at 11 and 13, I really felt the shift. Suddenly, I was met with eye rolls and disappearing acts whenever I picked up my camera! But that’s exactly what makes capturing this stage so meaningful to me. These preteen and teenage years are filled with quiet transformations as our children grow into themselves. They’re finding their independence, and our bonds with them evolve in beautiful, unexpected ways.
So, I was thrilled when Jeff, Sheri, their twin 16-year-old boys, Alex and Jacob, and their two cats, Hershey and Coco, invited me to spend an evening documenting their lives together.
Documenting the Teen Years
Now, full disclosure—I’ve known Alex and Jacob since the day they were born. I’ve known their parents even longer, but that’s another story! Watching them grow from sweet, curious toddlers into kind, confident young men has been a privilege. I love how grounded and genuine they are, and I’m grateful my son has role models like them—young men who are strong, thoughtful, and fun. These are the friendships that make life richer, and capturing that on camera felt truly special.
The goal of this session was to show that documenting families with older kids is just as valuable. You can still capture beautiful moments of connection, even if they look slightly different from when the kids were younger. The night included a lively game of Harry Potter Trivial Pursuit (where Sheri claimed the victory), cooking a meal together, and laughing over shared stories. Afterward, we wrapped up the evening by baking cookies and playing a round of Madden on the Xbox.
Here are a few of my favorite images from the night—though honestly, I could have included so many more.
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