Learning Center
Photographing Tweens

Photographing Tweens

by Kay Eskridge

Young tween girls between the ages of 9 and 12 have a poise and energy that is unique and unfiltered. Professional Photographer Kay Eskridge has found a creative way to capture special moments that only the art of photography can offer.

She specializes in theme parties for birthdays, graduations, special events and occasions. For one lucky young lady’s birthday, Eskridge recently shot a “Glamour Girls” party which featured a black and pink theme, complete with hairdressers and make-up artists to pamper the hostess and guests.

She used the Tamron SP AF17-50mm F/2.8, a fast standard zoom lens which helped to capture the quick pace of the party.

“The nice thing about the lens is its versatility,” says Eskridge. “It works for groups and portraits.”

To make the best of each event, Eskridge counts on a few simple rules:

1. SIZE OF THE GROUP – Eskridge has found that limiting the number of girls to 8 or 10 provides a nice range. Each girl can be seen in group shots. The 17-50mm lens also offers a wide angle that brings each girl into focus.

2. LIGHTING – Using a strobe light, soft box and umbrella for fill provides just enough lighting to illuminate the images without washing out facial features. She also uses a hair or strip light that provides a glow around each girl’s head.

3. ADDITIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER – Eskridge has an additional photographer at each event to capture the candid shots while she is in the room shooting posed pictures.

4. BE CREATIVE – Each guest receives a 5 x 7 picture. The hostess is also given ‘thank you’ notes with a photo on the front from the event. All guests are directed online to view all images with ways to purchase after the program is over. A possible DVD with all pictures set to music is one option for purchase.

5. USE A LENS THAT GIVES A BROAD RANGE OF RESULTS – Eskridge credits the Tamron lens with providing wide angle group shots and sharp, portraits. It’s also lightweight for easy hand-holding shooting, with a fast zoom for taking the often challenging candid shot.