Surviving School Picture Day
Along with the thrill of back-to-school comes many milestones that mark the progress of each passing school year. One of which is Picture Day! Some love it some dread it but somehow most everyone participates in it. So I thought I would take a moment to go over some tips to make the best of Picture Day for you and your kids.
Why Take a Portrait?
Some kids, especially the tweens and teens, might put up a fight when it comes to picture day. It may just be teen rebellion, or it may be shyness, or even embarrassment. One thing that is important to point out to your child is that “This is you on that day” so whatever flaws they think they have, it is the person that is loved by your family in the picture. Pictures are a great way to watch a person grow as well as bring back special memories of a time gone past. If it is skin issues that are preventing your child from willingly posing, you might consider getting them into a dermatologist 3-4 weeks prior, so that they can feel proactive, and then use the portrait as a mile marker on their road to clearer skin.
Clothing Choices
If possible, try to find out what sort of backdrop your child will be in front of. Several of the portrait companies are now offering a choice of both backdrop and position. If you have the typical bright blue backdrop, you want to dress your child is medium to dark colors (Deep reds, blues, greens, and purples). Try to avoid black or white, as it is just so blah. If you will have a lighter backdrop, you might want to go for a lighter shade of clothing as well, to cut back on the contrast. Stick to solids without any logo printing on them. The way a photo is cropped can leave a strange and distracting image. You also want to go with long sleeves for a formal appearance. Accessory choice is also important. You want to pick items that enhance without detracting from the main focus – your child. So try to do simple necklaces and/or earrings. For children with glasses, you have three choices – wear them as usual and rely on the photographer to try to minimize the glare, don’t wear them at all or ask your optometrist to if you can borrow a similar pair of lens-less frames.
Grooming Choices
One of the most common Picture Day Faux Pas is the “just cut look”. This is what happens when you take your child in for a haircut the day or two before picture day. You pictures will come out much better if you take your child in for a cut about two weeks prior to the scheduled picture day. This allows the hair to sort of “settle” and look more natural. When styling your child’s hair, remember that the portriat is typically straight on, so leaving the hair down to frame their face is usually more becoming. If your child will be wearing make-up try to go for a natural look. And if possible ask them to avoid joining all the other gals in glamming it up prior to the picture taking session.
Last but not least, just remember that a portrait is just a moment in time, to help us remember so it doesn’t have to be perfect. But if you aren’t satisfied with that philosophy keep in this is mind – There is almost always a chance for RE-TAKES!
