No photograph sticks with us as we grow from one school year to another like the school photo does. It's a simple portrait of your child but it will stand the test of time. As your Everett school photographer, I am here to help you prepare your kids for school photos. Whether you are going with the school's choice of photographer, taking the photos yourself, or working with a small business school photographer in Everett, Mukilteo, Mill Creek or Bothell these preparation tips will remain more or less the same.
tell them about school picture day
Your child will love a little excitement built around school picture day or they might not want anything to do with it. Regardless, if they are having picture day at their preschool, elementary school or middle school, they would like to know about it. If this is your child's first school photo day, give them a basic idea of what is going to happen. Show them a video off YouTube. If they have gone through this before, give them a refresher.
choose the right outfit
A school photograph will be focused on the child's eyes and facial expressions. Try to stick to clothes that aren't heavily patterned, have big logos or are neon in color. Stick to neutral or muted shades of any colour when choosing their outfits. Also make sure they try on what they will be wearing the day before so that they can tell you if they feel comfortable. Trust me when I say if they don't like any part of their outfit, it will show in their face. Sweaters, collared shirts, neutral t-shirts are all great options for clothing in school pictures.
limit or avoid accessories
You can keep hats, big bows or anything that will stick out and take away from their faces, at home this time. Remember that a school personality photo will focus on all the precious details that makes your child unique. You don't have to adorn them with much to make it a success. If you do plan on using accessories, keep it simple. For example, use a clip to keep their hair out of their face.
comb their hair
For younger kids, take a second to brush their hair before they head out the door. Keeping their hair out of their face will ensure that you actually receive a photo of their face.
communicate with their teacher
School picture day at a preschool can be somewhat intimidating for a little child. If you feel like your child will need extra support, talk to their teacher and express that you would like them to stay close by. As your school photo photographer, I always communicate with the kids' teacher prior to the photo session. I give them a rundown of my process and ask them to jump in if any of the young kids need reassurance.
