Kids and Portrait Sessions: What Parents Need to Know Before Picture Day
The Sweet Chaos of Picture Day
If you’ve ever wrangled a toddler into shoes or convinced a teen to take off their hoodie for five minutes, you know that anything involving kids and a schedule requires flexibility… and maybe an extra cup of coffee.
Every fall, I photograph students at schools across Boulder — from wide-eyed preschoolers to too-cool middle schoolers (who still secretly love it when Mom puts their photo on the fridge). One of my favorite moments? A preschooler giving his little brother a big hug to ease his nerves, and because he just loved him. Protective and proud, and so so sweet.
That’s what these sessions are really about — not perfection, but presence. Whether it’s a quick portrait at school or a full family hike into the foothills, my focus is the same: capturing your child’s real personality in a joyful, low-pressure way.
The Goal Isn’t Perfection — It’s Connection
As a mom and a Boulder family photographer, I know you want milestone portraits you’ll be proud to frame. But here’s the truth: kids don’t need to be “picture ready” in the traditional sense to make a great photo.
Some love dressing up. Others — whether they’re three or thirteen — will give you the world’s biggest eye roll if you suggest a button-up shirt. Both are perfectly fine.
My goal is to photograph your child in a way that feels authentic — happy, comfortable, and seen. Over the years, I’ve gathered a few Boulder school portrait tips that make picture day smoother and more enjoyable for both little ones and big kids.
4 Boulder School Portrait Tips for Parents — Preschool to High SchooL
1. Comfort over costume
Yes, you want Frame-Worthy with a capital F. But more than matching outfits or perfect hair, what really shines in a portrait is how your child feels.
- If they love their sparkly sneakers, vintage band tee, or favorite sports hoodie — that’s okay.
- Think colorful, clean, and layers they can move (or lounge) in.
- For younger kids, skip zinc-based sunscreen that morning — it photographs like ghost paint.
2. Prep with CONNECTION, NOT PRESSURE
A little pre-frame conversation goes a long way.
- Let younger kids know a friendly photographer will take their picture and that it might be fun and silly.
- For older kids, respect their style input — even small compromises (like letting them keep their favorite necklace or hat for a few shots) can make them more comfortable.
- Keep the hype low — too much build-up can make anyone tense, no matter their age.
Bonus tip: Boulder school staff are incredible partners on picture day. If your child — big or small — feels uneasy, there’s always a teacher, counselor, or coach nearby to help.
3. Trust me to read the room
I’ve photographed hundreds of kids — including those with big personalities, short attention spans, and neurodivergent needs. From shy preschoolers to confident teens, I’ve photographed every personality type.
- I guide gently, keep things playful (or low-key, depending on the age), and know when to switch gears.
- We aim for engagement, not stiff poses — the magic happens when kids feel seen, not scrutinized.
- Even in a short school portrait window, I work hard to create a quick moment of connection.
4. Remember the goal: memories that matter
What you’ll treasure years from now isn’t whether their hair was perfect — it’s the missing tooth grin, the braces and awkward smiles, the way they tucked their hair behind their ear, or the sparkle in their eyes when they laughed.
These portraits aren’t about Pinterest perfection. They’re about marking time, capturing growth, and preserving the realness of every stage.
Why This Matters — Especially Now
Between schedules, activities, homework, moods, and meals, your days are already full. School portrait day might feel like just another to-do, but it’s also a rare opportunity to freeze a moment in your child’s life — a small chapter in their big story.
And if your family has ever thought, “Portrait sessions aren’t for us” — too chaotic, too formal, too hard to coordinate — I promise, you don’t need perfect kids. You just need real ones.
Let Me Help You Make It Beautiful (and Easy)
Whether it’s a quick preschool portrait, a confident senior photo, or a full family adventure in the Boulder foothills, I bring patience, play, and presence to every shoot. If you’ve got active kids, camera-shy teens, sensory-sensitive kids, or just feel overwhelmed about how to prep, I’d love to help.
📸 Book your Boulder family or school portrait session today — let’s capture messy hair, genuine smiles, and memories you’ll love at every age.
FAQ: Boulder School Portrait Tips for Parents
What if my child won’t smile?
That’s okay! I focus on connection first — when kids feel comfortable, genuine expressions follow, no matter their age.
Can siblings be photographed together?
Yes! If they attend the same school or we arrange a family session, we can capture sibling portraits.
What should my child wear?
Choose comfortable, clean clothes in colors that complement their skin tone. Avoid busy patterns or large logos, but let their personality show through accessories and style choices.
How long will the photo session take?
School portraits are quick — usually 1–2 minutes per student (longer for littles) — but I use that time to capture authentic, flattering images.