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Christina Ellis

Back to School Smiles: Creative Ideas for Kids' Photos


Back to School Photography
Adorable girl who is excited for the new school year.

As summer draws to a close and the scent of freshly sharpened pencils fills the air, you can practically hear the collective groan of students nationwide. But while your kids may not be thrilled about trading pool days for school days, you have the perfect opportunity to capture this milestone with memorable Back to School photos. Let's dive into some creative ways to make those school pictures shine this year.


Why Back to School Photos Matter

Despite the annual sighs and eye-rolls, Back to School photos are more than just another item on your to-do list. They’re a snapshot in time, capturing your child at the start of a new chapter. Whether it’s their first day of kindergarten or their last first day of high school, these photos offer a treasure trove of memories.

Key Takeaways:

  • Capture the milestone: These photos signify growth and change.

  • Creative settings and themes: Think outside the traditional school photo box.

  • Memorable for years to come: Cherished by family members and great for social media shares.


Setting the Scene for Perfect Back to School Photos

Your choice of setting can make or break your child’s school pictures. While the classic front-door shot will always have a place in our hearts, there are many avenues for creativity.

Outdoor Settings

Take advantage of the beautiful outdoor settings near your home. Parks, gardens, or even your own backyard can provide a natural, vibrant backdrop.

Indoor Magic

No one said Back to School photos had to be outside. Cozy indoor settings with personalized touches can create a warm, inviting scene.

Pro Tip: Hire a kids photographer who specializes in children photography to capture the best angles and expressions. They often have a keen eye for detail and can make even the shyest child shine.


Outfit Ideas for Standout School Pictures

Choosing the right outfit can add a layer of charm to your child’s photos. Here’s a handy list to help you decide:

  • Classic School Uniform: Ideal for those attending schools with a dress code.

  • Trendy Casual Wear: Jeans and a cool graphic tee can never go wrong.

  • Themed Costumes: Bring out their inner astronaut, fairy, or superhero for a playful twist.

  • Accessorize: Hats, scarves, and backpacks can add personality to the photo.

Tips for Choosing the Right Outfit

  • Comfort is Key: Ensure your child can move freely.

  • Avoid Busy Patterns: Opt for solid colors or simple designs.

  • Coordinate, Don’t Match: For sibling photos, coordinating colors can create unity without overt uniformity.


Fun Props to Elevate Your Kids Photography

Incorporating props can add an element of fun and creativity to your children photography sessions. Props can be simple yet effective in making your Back to School photos pop.

Prop Ideas

  • Chalkboard Signs: Write the grade level and the date for a personalized touch.

  • Books: Stack of favorite books can show your child's interest.

  • School Supplies: Brightly colored notebooks, pencils, and rulers add vibrance.

  • Globe: Perfect for the little explorer and adds a scholarly feel.

DIY Prop Creation

  • Personalized Backdrops: Make your own with poster boards and markers.

  • Handmade Signs: Craft custom signs with your child’s name and grade.


Planning the Perfect Photo Session

Planning ahead can make your photo session go smoothly. Booking a kids photographer in advance ensures you get the perfect time and date that suits your schedule.

Timing is Everything

  • Golden Hour: Late afternoon sunlight provides the best lighting.

  • Avoid Midday Sun: It can create harsh shadows and squinting.

  • After School: Captures the authentic feel of the first day back.

Making the Session Fun

  • Games and Jokes: Keep the mood light to capture genuine smiles.

  • Snacks and Breaks: Little ones may need breaks and snacks to stay happy.


Editing Your School Pictures

Once you have the photos, the real fun begins with editing. Professional children photographers often provide edited versions, but you can add your own touch with apps.

Basic Edits to Consider

  • Brightness and Contrast: Make colors pop and correct any lighting issues.

  • Cropping: Focus on your child and remove distracting elements.

  • Filters: Add a vintage or modern touch with different filters.

Pro Tip: Don’t overdo it. The goal is to enhance, not to transform the photo into something unrecognizable.


Sharing and Storing Your Back to School Photos

After all the effort of capturing these moments, you’ll want to share and store them properly.

Sharing Options

  • Social Media: Share a few of the best shots with family and friends.

  • Photo Albums: Go old school with physical albums.

  • Digital Frames: Display a rotating slideshow of your favorites.

Storing Tips

  • Cloud Storage: Keep digital copies safe in the cloud.

  • USB Drives: For a physical backup, use USB drives.

  • Prints: Don’t underestimate the joy of holding a printed photo.


Final Thoughts

Back to School photos are more than just pictures; they're a celebration of growth, new beginnings, and the endless possibilities that lie ahead. So, embrace the chaos, the laughter, and even the occasional tear. One day, you’ll look back at these photos and be grateful for every single moment.

Key Takeaways:

  • Plan ahead: Choose the right setting, outfit, and props.

  • Make it fun: Keep the session light-hearted and enjoyable.

  • Cherish the memories: Share and store your photos to revisit this special time.


Next time you pick up that camera or hire a seasoned children's photographer, remember you’re not just capturing an image; you’re capturing a story. And what a beautiful story it will be!

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