Fantasy Photos for Mom and Teen Session | High Desert Photographer
As moms, we really tend to hold on to childhood memories.
No, I’m not talking about our own childhood memories. I’m talking about our children’s childhood—childrenhood...? What we gave them and how we’ve raised them, watching them grow up, and step into their own.
I was lucky enough to meet this mom-and-teen duo, and I immediately felt their happiness and love for each other.
I took photos of mom, the teen, and the two together, of course.
Mama Came Alive
As moms, we often put our kids first, without ever thinking of what we want or need. As I took photos of this mama, I watched her come alive and have fun with the photo session—just like a little kid would.
It was just as magical for me as it was for them.
Looking through these photos made my heart melt, and I got to thinking. If you feel like your teenager and you are losing precious time, why not book a mom-and-me fantasy session? It doesn’t have to be a toddler-aged child; teens and preteens can want photos with their mom, too.
Of course, you can do a Dad and me session, twins and parent, etc., but to keep things simple, I will be referring to these two from this session.
This is something entirely separate from high school senior pictures. This is extra special and magical, and tells the story of a parent-child bond.
Okay, time to dive in!
What is the Perfect Age for a Parent and Me Portrait?
Everyone matures at a different speed. If you want to do this with your eight-year-old, do it! If you want to do this with your twenty-five-year-old, I say do it!
If you feel like the years are flying by, you should book a session today! It doesn’t have to be a fantasy-style session. For the record, I’m a family photographer— for all families! Not just the fantasy seekers. I write blog posts for every family.
A good age range is pre-teen to senior in high school. 11-18.
Now, that being said, every family is different, and it’s never too late or too early to take portraits.
I know there’s no way I could have done this type of session with my daughter back when she was 15. But now that she’s in her twenties, we’re best friends. We can actually hang out in the same room together.
Consider your family and their dynamics.
Choose Your Fantasy Theme
How will you choose, who will you be?
This will be the fun part! Who do both of you want to be for the day?
Theme ideas can be as fun and carefree as you want. Or, you can opt for a simpler style session. I left these ideas very vague because I want you to come up with something fun and personal.
Enchanted Fairy
Woodland creature (my clients were deer)
Royalty
Cosplay
Anime
Video Game Character
Storybook
Horror
Movie Character
Celestial
Retro 50s
Vintage
Mythology
Clothing, Props, and Location
A fantasy session needs some serious pre-planning.
You can get as creative as you want—let your teenager help with the theme, outfits, props, and makeup. It will feel extra special because you’ll do it together.
Clothing
Most importantly, dress comfortably. Keep the weather in mind, and have fun with it!
Flowy dresses that have movement
Cloaks, capes, fancy coats with tails, faux fur coats
Scarves—these add extra detail and can be removed
Blousy pants, also great for movement
Fun shoes or bare feet
Lacey socks if you wear shoes
Layers are good
Character specific clothing ie: mermaid tail and bra
Props
Think of things you can hold. Props are good for adding detail to your story; they don’t want to take it over, just add to it.
Umbrellas and parasols— lacey, gothic, clear vinyl, or brightly colored
Hand fans—black lace, metallic, floral, etc.
Wand, walking cane, or a staff
Swords
Bow and arrow
Chains or a fake knife
Pearls— the more the merrier and longer
Gloves—long, wrist length, so many colors and styles to choose from
Hats
Sunglasses or fun eyeglasses
Crowns—flowers, metal stars, royalty, woodland animals, etc.
Elf ears
Book or small stack of books
Character’s handheld prop
Treasure map
Gold pieces
Hair scarf
Belt with baubles and small potion bottles
Make up
Wigs
Hair accessories
Props can be a lot, think less is more.
I gave you a bunch of ideas above, but there are hundreds more.
However, you don’t want to be carrying 10 different things. Having 1 or 2 items to hold and play with helps.
Sometimes you gotta think out of the box while location scouting. Ha!
Locations and Spaces
The location and backdrop really depends on your theme. And, no, you don’t need to travel to Disneyland to get a Star Wars themed photo.
50s theme session in a diner or with an old car
A wooded area or forest for fairies
Vintage looks perfect in or outside of an old house
Local parks for sword fights—need lots of open space, doesn’t have to be fancy
Forests or woods work a lot of the time
Beach, pool, or water source for a mermaid
Open desert
A long straight road
Bridges are fun
The high desert has tons of places to tell your story, you just have to look
If we need to, we can travel to other nearby spots in Southern California
You can feel mama’s love in this photo.
Posing You Both
It’s a session for the both of you, however I will photograph you seprately as well.
How often do you get your picture taken, mom? I bet it’s much less than the screenager. So, I want to make this session special for you both, as well as you individually.
Don’t stress, you’ll be dressed up and feeling fancy. I’ll take beautiful pictures of the two of you together, posed, some laughing candids, and a few of individuals. It’s just part of my process.
What Happens After the Session?
After we’re all photo’d out, need a snack, sip of water, and a nap, I’ll go home and get cracking on editing your images.
In 2–3 weeks, I'll share your photos for you to pick your favorites. You can do this online or in person. You decide what to print and how.
I often advise albums in this situation. You an can fumble through the pages together and pass the album down to kids and grandkids. However, nothing says "we’re fun" like a big 40” framed photo of mom and child on the wall.
After I receive the print order, I’ll contact you and hand-deliver your wall art and albums. This usually takes 3 weeks or so. If it’s not a busy time of year, it will be quicker. But I like to give myself and you a roomy window of time.
Sounds easy, right? And, fun! Don’t forget the fun part!
If this sounds like something you really want to do and plan for, give me a call. This would be a wonderful gift idea to you, from you.
This experience is a one of a kind. Something neither one of you will ever forget. Time is passing by quickly, so book now!
Cheers,
Annette
