Smile...because you still have to go home with these people

Just an observation from my time in the studio. Moms like to have photos of their kids. Moms will have no issue procuring frequent photos of their kids when said kids are wee little ones. It becomes slightly more difficult to manage when the kids are older, busy with activities, and of the mindset to say such charming things as "Pictures are stupid" or "I don't even like my family, why should I have to get portraits?" *insert general sound of whining here*

Here's the thing, mopey teens of the world. Mom brought you into existence. Mom more than likely purchased your stupid skinny jeans and hair dye for you, and she's more than likely going to be the one to pry open her purse and hand you cash once the photo session is done so that you can go to the local fast food joint and stuff your face instead of helping her pick out photos that you like. And Mom, in all probability, drove you to the studio, which means that she has the car keys, and I'd be willing to bet that you don't live right around the corner...so be nice or else she'll leave you with us. Smile. Don't slouch. Let Mom fix your hair. Look at the camera. Don't spend the entire time whining about how much you hate having your photos taken, and whatever you do, don't insist on making the 'non-smiling intense looking teen angst' face because believe me, it'll come back to haunt you when you're a little more grown up. Your dear sweet mother would just like to have a nice updated shot of the fam for the wall and to send to grandma...for heaven's sakes, just sit still, pipe down, and smile for ten minutes and it'll be over. It can be a quick and painless process if you just cooperate.

And dads, the above rules apply to you, too. We know, we know...you'd rather be at home watching the game, and the sooner you cooperate the sooner you'll be back in the Windstar on your way home. Also as an FYI, at the end of the session when Mom is choosing her photos and is OBVIOUSLY leaning toward one shot versus the other, she's going to ask your opinion. Don't say "I don't care" or "pick whichever one you like, this is your thing anyway". For Pete's sake, just tell her you like the one you already know she likes; you'll make her feel like you care (we know you don't) and you'll make her feel like she'd already chosen the one you liked best--everyone wins.

Maybe, next time your mom or grandma or wife drags you into a portrait studio or to a photographer, you'll remember these words to the wise and employ them. Trust me, it'll make the whole experience easier for everyone--the other family members, the photographers, and of course, your loving mama. So play nice.