With the start of every school year comes the return of school pictures. Many parents purchase
school photos to give to family and friends. Yet often school pictures don’t turn out like the
parent is expecting them too. Here are some tips on taking schools pictures to help ensure that
your child’s school photo is picture perfect.
Have your child practice smiling at home. My son recently had his picture taken and kept
giving smiles that scrunched up his whole face. I had to remind him to smile for real and
not try so hard. If your child has a hard time have them picture something funny in their
heads and the smile will come naturally.
Make sure your child gets a good night sleep the night before picture day. This will
ensure that they look well rested and don’t have those red bags under their eyes
Teach your child to sit up straight with their shoulders back. Good posture is essential for a quality photo.
Try practicing taking pictures at home so your child knows what to
expect. Pose your child and ask them to hold the pose while you snap the
picture. This will give them practice sitting still.
Get your child’s haircut at least two weeks before picture day to avoid the
fresh-cut look. This is especially important for boys. Plus if it doesn’t turn out
perfect you will have time to get it fixed or let it grow out a little.
Your child’s nails should be clean and trimmed. Dirty nails do not
make for a flattering photo.
What your child wear is important. You want to make sure that the focus is kept
on your child’s face and off what they are wearing. Experts recommend clothes
with solid colors and no patterns. If it does have a pattern make sure it is small
and not to bold like a simple plaid. Make sure that your child’s clothes are
wrinkle free, permanent press, or cotton to prevent unsightly wrinkles.
For boys a polo shirt and nice jeans or khaki pants work well. Girls can wear
a simple dress, remember they will be playing outside during recess, or a nice
shirt and pants.
If jewelry is worn make is small and simple. The same can be said for hair
ribbons and bows as well.
Right before your child gets their picture taken ask them to take a look in
the mirror and check their hair and make sure their collar, if they are
wearing one, is lying down flat.
Hopefully by following these simple tips you will get school pictures
this year that you will treasure for a lifetime.
