School Picture Day Survival Guide: What to Wear (and What to Avoid!)
Let’s be honest—school picture day has a way of sneaking up on us. One minute, you’re packing lunches and rushing out the door, and the next, you're realizing your kid is about to be immortalized in a photo with bedhead and a cereal milk mustache. As a photographer, I want you to love these photos, not just tolerate them.
Over the years, so many parents have told me these were their favorite pictures they’ve ever had of their child. That’s why I take extra care to make sure each session captures genuine expressions and little details you’ll cherish.
So, here’s my helpful (and slightly bossy) guide to making sure your child looks their best without stress or regret.
Plan Ahead for Picture-Perfect Hair
My first and most important tip is to schedule haircuts wisely. A fresh trim the day before picture day can leave your child looking like a freshly shorn sheep, rather than their most confident self! Ensure haircuts are done about a week in advance for a natural, settled-in look.
If your child has long hair, keep styles simple—complicated braids and fancy updos rarely survive recess intact. I love being able to bring some hair forward over the shoulder and will do my best to quickly clean up a barrette or simple braid that has gone astray.
Dress for the Moment (and the Memories)
For a timeless look, stick to solid colors, simple patterns, and classic styles. Think button-ups, polo shirts, sweaters, or dresses with clean lines—these choices never go out of style and won’t leave you wondering years later, "Why did I let them wear that?"
If your kid insists, however, on their favorite superhero T-shirt or rainbow tutu, it’s okay to embrace it! Sometimes, the best photos are the ones that capture their personality (and their impressive negotiation skills). These images are about remembering who they were at this stage—quirky fashion choices and all.
Add a Little Style
Small details like a twirly dress, a ruffled sleeve, a bow tie, or a cool jacket can add personality without being overwhelming. These little extras give children something to interact with, adding movement and a natural feel to their portraits. They also allow me to give fun prompts like "straighten your tie" or "twirl your dress," which bring out authentic expressions and infuse the photos with personality.
Keep Accessories in Check
Kids love raiding the play closet for accessories, but what looks great in dress-up might not be what you want hanging on your living room wall. Oversized hair bows, giant headbands, and flashy jewelry often steal the spotlight, distracting from those big, beautiful eyes or that delightfully quirky smile. Stick to simple, well-placed accessories that enhance rather than overpower.
Leave the Cheese on the Charcuterie Board
Telling kids to 'Say Cheese' usually results in a forced, unnatural grin. Instead, encourage them to relax and have fun! When kids are genuinely enjoying themselves, their best, most natural smiles shine through.
One great tip to help older kids loosen up? Have them prepare a joke for me—delivering a punchline without smiling is practically impossible, and it makes for some fantastic, joyful portraits.
Lastly, Quick Cleanup Before Heading Out
Morning chaos is real, but a few extra seconds can make a big difference. Wipe away breakfast crumbs, check for toothpaste smudges, and smooth out any wild cowlicks. If your child wears glasses, clean those lenses—nothing ruins a great photo faster than a lens full of smudges.
The Results? A Picture You’ll Love
School photos should capture your child as they are—happy, confident, and themselves. Keep things simple, plan ahead, and you’ll end up with a portrait worth framing, not just stashing away in a drawer.
Learn About Poses I Love To Capture and my Fine Art Children’s Mini Sessions or find out about Lifestyle Family Photo Sessions with Stephanie - parents should be in the picture too! I’m a Kirkland Family Photographer - and believe there are a lot of Benefits of Working with a Hyper-Local Photographer.
