Back to School Photo Tips

The first day of school is a big photo opp for parents, so I thought we’d share some of our tried and true tips for getting the best out of your family’s pictures.

First Day of School Signs that coordinate with a darling Back to School Breakfast idea - lots of FREE PRINTABLES @PagingSupermom

It’s smart to do a little prep work so the morning of the first day is a breeze.

1. Have your child help pick out a favorite outfit ahead of time and be sure to set it aside — this point might seem obvious but if you’ve got little ones who are excited to wear new school clothes, this step could save a lot of hassle on the first day.

2. Take your kids in for a fresh haircut. Have you heard about the new Online Check-In App from Great Clips? It’s a free app that can save time by helping you locate your nearest salon and add your family to the wait list. For every download of the FREE app, Great Clips has pledged to donate to the Adopt a Classroom cause. Go here to learn more.

3. Be sure to download and print out our free, fill-in photo signs for your kiddos to hold in their pictures.

First Day of School Signs that coordinate with a darling Back to School Breakfast idea - lots of FREE PRINTABLES @PagingSupermom

Now for some photography tips…

Shut the front door. We know some families have a tradition of using the front door as a backdrop for their first day of school shots. This is fun so that you can see how your child is growing in comparison. If you want to go the door route, we suggest standing outside the door rather than inside since the light will be better. Also it will turn out best if your door has a bit of shade so you won’t have any harsh shadows from direct sunlight on your little one’s face. Good news is you usually will find shade in front of most doors due to the roof overhang.

No hot flashes. Try to avoid using the flash since natural light is more flattering. This will be easiest to do if you take photos outside. Again look for a spot of shade on the ground, which you’ll often find near a building or tree. Shade is important because it provides the most flattering light (without dark shadows on your child’s face). If taking photos indoors without flash, stand next to an open window with the light coming in on the side of your child’s face.

Cut the cheese. Kids get so used to having to say “Cheese!” when they get their photo taken that you’ll rarely catch a natural smile this way. Instead ask them to recite the alphabet and snap away as they go… especially on letters ending in a long E or O sound.

Check out the rest of our Back to School ideas. Many thanks to Great Clips for sponsoring today’s post.

Bettijo Bridges

Administrator at Paging Supermom
Bettijo is the founder and designer of Paging Supermom where she shares creative ideas for family fun. Known for practical and kid-friendly activities, free printables and holiday entertainment. Bettijo was a guest on the Martha Stewart Show and has frequently appeared on local TV. Her work has also been featured in national magazines including Real Simple, O, Redbook, Parents, Family Circle, and Health. She enjoys art, retro-modern design, photography and making new things. Mom of 4 kids.

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