Awkward Family Photoshoots

Because normal family photos are overrated.

If you've ever looked at those gloriously cringe family photos from the '80s and '90s and thought, "We should totally do that," now's your chance.

At Elaine Rennie Photography, I create fun, intentionally awkward family photoshoots that celebrate terrible fashion, cheesy smiles and wonderfully uncomfortable poses. These sessions are all about laughter, personality and making memories you'll be talking about for years. Whether you're surprising the grandparents, creating a Christmas card everyone will remember, or simply looking for something completely different, an awkward photoshoot is guaranteed to leave you with photos that are equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.

Based in my Thornlands studio, I welcome families, couples and groups from across Brisbane, Redlands, Logan, the Bayside and surrounding areas.


What is an Awkward Family Photoshoot?

Think matching outfits. Think oversized glasses. Think tucked-in shirts, knitted vests, questionable backdrops, fake smiles and the kind of poses that make everyone laugh. The more awkward, the better.

Don't worry if you're not naturally goofy—I will guide you through every pose and expression. My job is to make everyone feel comfortable enough to embrace the awkwardness, and that's when the magic happens.

Every session is relaxed, fun and full of genuine laughter.


Who Are These Sessions For?

Awkward photoshoots are perfect for:

  • Families - especially at Christmas, even Christmas in July! These make awesome Christmas cards!
  • Couples - Think engagement announcement or anniversary!
  • Siblings - Perfect gift for the parents!
  • Friendship groups - Who doesn't want a photoshoot with their besties!
  • Work colleagues - Great team building opportunity!

The bigger the personalities, the better.


What Should We Wear?

This is where the fun begins. Raid the op shops, borrow from your parents' wardrobe or see what treasures you already have hidden away. I do have a small selection of clothing you can use, a few wigs and plenty of props!

Ideas include:

  • Double denim
  • Knitted sweaters
  • Loud patterned shirts
  • High-waisted jeans
  • Socks with sandals
  • Mullets (real or fake!)
  • Big glasses
  • Retro tracksuits
  • Matching outfits
  • Vintage dresses
  • Bow ties
  • Ugly Christmas jumpers

The more committed you are, the funnier your photos will be. If you're stuck, I'll happily help you plan outfits before your session.


Your Session

Sessions take place in my Thornlands studio, where I've created a collection of props to complete the look. From the moment you arrive, I'll guide you through the entire experience—from choosing poses to perfecting those wonderfully awkward facial expressions. No modelling experience required. In fact, the less serious you take yourself, the better the results!


Why Book an Awkward Photoshoot?

Because years from now, these are the photos you'll still be laughing about. They make unforgettable gifts, become conversation starters on your walls, and are guaranteed to stand out from traditional family portraits.

While I absolutely love creating beautiful portraits, I also believe photography should be fun. These sessions are designed to celebrate your family's unique personalities and create memories just as valuable as the finished photographs.


Why Choose Elaine Rennie Photography?

I'm known for creating portraits full of personality.

Whether it's professional headshots, creative composite artwork or quirky family sessions, I love helping people relax in front of the camera and enjoy the experience. Every awkward photoshoot is individually styled, professionally lit and carefully edited, giving you images that look polished while still embracing the wonderfully ridiculous theme.

You'll leave with photographs that are genuinely funny, beautifully photographed and completely unique.


Frequently Asked Questions

Do we have to wear costumes?

Not at all! Everyday clothes can be made wonderfully awkward with the right styling and posing, but dressing up definitely adds to the fun.

Where are you located?

My home studio is located in Thornlands in Brisbane's Redlands, with clients travelling from across Brisbane and South East Queensland.

Can we bring our own props?

Absolutely! The more personal (and awkward), the better.

Are children welcome?

Yes! These sessions are suitable for families of all ages.

Can we bring our dog?

Definitely! Well-behaved pets are welcome to join the fun.


Ready to Embrace the Awkward?

Life's too short for boring family photos.

If you're looking for a unique photography experience in Brisbane that's full of laughter, personality and unforgettable memories, I'd love to help bring your wonderfully awkward vision to life.

Get in touch today to book your Awkward Family Photoshoot and let's create something hilariously unforgettable together.


COMING SOON ......... THE AWKWARD PHOTO BOOTH BRISBANE!

PRIVATE EVENTS HIRE

We have a full mobile studio ready to make your party or event unforgettable! Running a market or festival and want us there? We will draw in the crowds with our wacky props and costumes! Click here for more information!

Awkward photo of two women dressed in 80's clothes doing a funny pose of stacked heads, in front of a neon laser background
a couple dressed in 80's clothes standing awkwardly beside each other, taken in front of an 80's neon laser background.
Awkward photo of two women dressed in 80's clothes doing a funny pose in front of a neon background
Awkward photo of a family of four wearing hideous 80's clothes against a neon laser backdrop.
Awkward 80's photo of a man with a mullet, wearing cheesy denim, with a beer in hand. photo taken against a neon laser backdrop
Awkward portrait of a lady in a brown retro top, big glasses, blonde 70's hair, staring blankly, against a brown mottled backdrop
Awkward portrait of a lady in a brown retro top, big glasses, blonde 70's hair, staring blankly, with a floating pet head in the corner
awkward photo of a dog wearing 80s glasses against a rainbow sparkle background
two girls jumping, wearing 80s inspired neon outfits, galactic colourful background, for awkward photoshoot
Awkward portrait of a lady wearing a bright shell suit jacket, neon accessories, staring blankly against a neon 80's laser backdrop
Awkward photo of a dog wearing colourful glasses and pink bow tie, against an 80's neon laser background.
Awkward family photo of mum and daughter wearing matching clothes. child is being held by mum to look like she's flying.
Awkward christmas family photo of mum holding a large glass of wine while daughter pulls on her leg, in front of a Christmas fireplace
Awkward family photo of mum and daughter pulling an oversized christmas bon bon or cracker
Awkward family photo of mum holding daughter upside down, wearing matching clothes, in front of a christmas fireplace scene
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