Tips for Taking Back to School Pictures!

It's hard to believe the school year is already here, and it's already time to think about those back-to-school photos! Even for photographers, it's a LOT to think about and prepare for, but I thought it might be fun to compile some tips to help you capture the perfect shots of your little ones (or not-so-little ones) as they embark on a new academic adventure:

1. Plan Ahead. Choose outfits the night before to avoid the morning rush, and prepare props like chalk boards, letter boards, favorite books, and backpacks for those “first day of school” snaps.
 

2. Timing is Everything. Take photos in the morning when kids are fresh and excited, and allow extra time to avoid stressed-out shots.
 

3. Location, Location, Location. Take your photos by your front door or porch for a classic look, or outside the school building/in the classroom to document the memories there. Remember to find a spot with good natural light. I like to look for shade so that I don't have shadows falling on my kiddos faces.
 

4. Capture the Details. Take close-ups of new shoes, backpacks, or lunch boxes, school supplies, and don't forget to photograph any hand-made items or accessories.
 

5. Mix it Up. Take both posed and candid shots, include siblings or pets, and capture the in-between moments like tying shoes or packing backpacks. Don't be afraid to let your child strike a silly pose or two!

6. Document Growth. Take photos in the same spot each year to show how much your kids have changed over time, and consider creating a photo book or gallery wall with yearly photos. Try taking a photo of their handprint at the start of each year, or recording a quick video sharing their goals for the year.

7. The After-School Follow- Up. Take an “after” photo when they arrive home to capture their return. Ask them to hold up any art or activities they brought home, and capture the excitement with bubble machines or confetti to celebrate their completion of day-one.

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and capture your child's personality. These photos will become treasured memories for years to come!

Want to take it a step further? Consider booking a simple session with us! We're offering special packages to capture these milestone moments in style.

Happy photographing!