Back-to-school is one of my favorite times of the year as a teacher. It’s a fresh start after a long break, I get to meet my students, I often redecorate my classroom and I have back-to-school portraits lined up. It’s a very busy season for me with Fall knocking on our doors. I wanted to go through why you should rethink the traditional school photos done at school.

Location is important.

Every year, I offer these sessions outside of a local school because of the beautiful brick walls but also for sentimental value. I get students that are super proud to tell me that this is their school and that’s where they play. When your kids grow up they will have a great souvenir of their school pictured in the background. On the other hand, traditional pictures offer backgrounds to help coordinate your child’s clothing or your home decor. You don’t need to ask me or my clients which they prefer. They know I offer more time with each child and have more room to move around.

What you can bring.

If you have a look at previous years in my portfolio, you will notice that you don’t need much. I recommend a backpack, a cute outfit (Of course!) and a brush or comb. I will have the rest ready for you. I always have my beautiful vintage desk (Thanks to my friend for lending it to me every year!) and sometimes I bring some props like an apple, books, frames and glasses. The frame can be used to digitally write infos about your child. Whatever you wish to write just send me a message afterwards. If you are unsure you can choose the basics, name, age, school year, grade, name of school, etc.

On your own time.

I understand that traditional school portraits are so much easier for parents to choose because you don’t need to change your schedule to make a session fit on your busy weekends. BUT, I offer sessions over multiple weekends. You can choose the one that works for you and your family. You can also take your time before the photoshoot to get your kids dressed and hair done. When you get to the location and during the session you will be able to tweak your child’s hair and help them give me their best smiles. You get to participate and will be sure that I nailed multiple photos. That means, NO MORE REDOS!!!! You will also be able to choose more than 1 pose! With a private session you get more.

But I want prints.

In the following days after your session you will receive a digital album with all the portraits from your session to choose. Once they have been edited you will have a digital copy of each. You won’t need to choose a print package, like with traditional pictures. Instead, you will be able to PRINT WHAT YOU NEED! No more wasting and it’s cheaper! You can send the digital file to your local printing company (Don’t know which to choose? I can help with that as well.). The bonus for digital pictures is, it’s so easy to share on your social media account. Don’t forget to book your session a couple weeks before the start of the school year to guarantee your spot. If you’ve never done this type of session, I dare you to try it and see the difference!

CL