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Writer's pictureMichael Anthony

How to get your teen to give a real smile

Updated: Mar 17

As a portrait photographer in Killeen, I often come across parents who want to capture a genuine smile from their teenagers during a photo session. Getting your teen to smile for real can be a challenge, but it's not impossible. Here are some tips that can help you get that perfect smile from your teen.


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Let Them Be Themselves


Teens are often self-conscious and can feel awkward when posing for photos. To capture a genuine smile, it's essential to let them be themselves and feel comfortable. Allow them to pose in a way that feels natural and reflects their personality. Encourage them to be silly or serious, whatever they feel most comfortable with.


Make Them Laugh


Laughter is one of the best ways to get a genuine smile. Try telling jokes or funny stories to help them relax and feel more comfortable. You can also ask them to think about something funny or share a favorite memory. This can help create a relaxed and happy atmosphere that will encourage a natural smile.


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Don't Force It


Trying to force a smile from your teen will likely result in a fake, forced smile that doesn't look natural. Instead, try to create an environment where they feel comfortable and relaxed, and the smiles will come naturally. Remember, a genuine smile is worth waiting for, so be patient.


Focus on the Eyes


The eyes are the windows to the soul, and a genuine smile often involves the eyes. Encourage your teen to look directly into the camera and focus on their eyes. This can help create a connection between the subject and the viewer and bring out a natural smile.


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Use Props


Props can be a fun and creative way to get your teen to smile naturally. Choose props that reflect their interests or hobbies, and encourage them to interact with them. This can help create a playful and relaxed atmosphere that will encourage a genuine smile.




In conclusion, getting your teen to smile for real can be a challenge, but with the right approach, it's possible to capture a natural and beautiful smile. Remember to let your teen be themselves, make them laugh, don't force it, focus on the eyes, and use props. With these tips, you can capture a perfect portrait of your teen that will be treasured for years to come.


Schedule your shoot with Michael Anthony today!



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