How to Prepare Your Child for Fine Art Picture Day
Fine art picture day is a little different from traditional school photos. Instead of stiff poses and forced smiles, the goal is to capture your child as they truly are—their personality, curiosity, and all that makes the unique! A little preparation can go a long way in helping your child feel relaxed and ready, and in creating images you’ll treasure for years.
Here are a few simple, stress-free ways to prepare your child for fine art picture day.
1. Talk About It (Keep It Positive and Simple)
Children do best when they know what to expect—but it doesn’t need to be a big production. Let them know that a photographer will be taking their picture at school and that all they need to do is be themselves.
Avoid pressure-filled phrases like “You have to smile nicely” or “This is very important.” Instead, try:
“You’ll get to have your picture taken today!”
“Just listen and have fun.”
“They want to see your real smile.”
The more relaxed the expectation, the more natural the photos will be.
2. Choose Comfortable, Thoughtful Clothing
Fine art portraits photograph best when clothing is simple, comfortable, and timeless.
Tips for outfits:
Stick with soft, neutral, or earthy tones.
Avoid bright neons, large logos, or busy patterns.
Layers and texture (knits, linen, cotton) add beautiful depth.
Make sure your child can move easily and feels good in what they’re wearing.
But always their clothes should reflect them! Maybe your kiddos are die hard Alaskans and x-truffs and hoodies is all they will wear!
If your child feels itchy, tight, or uncomfortable, it will show!
Make sure THEY feel comfortable and confidant!
3. Keep Hair and Accessories Natural
Fine art portraits highlight your child’s natural beauty. Hair doesn’t need to be perfect. Most families prefer to see their childs images with tidy hair. But maybe YOUR kiddo is known for crazy out of control locks! Thats totally fine too!
Style hair the way your child usually wears it.
Avoid brand-new hairstyles that may feel unfamiliar.
The goal is for your child to look like themselves, not a version they don’t recognize.
4. Prioritize Rest and a Full Belly
A well-rested, well-fed child is a happy child.
Aim for good sleep!
A nice full belly!
Big emotions often come from little needs—sleep and food make a huge difference.
5. Trust the Process
Fine art school photography allows space for children to warm up, breathe, and show their true selves. Not every child smiles on command—and that’s okay! Quiet expressions, thoughtful gazes, and gentle grins often become parents’ favorite images.
There’s no need to coach your child or practice smiles. The most meaningful portraits come when children are given permission to just be.
Fine art picture day is about capturing your child in this fleeting season of life—exactly as they are right now. Thank you for trusting me with that honor. I can’t wait to create something beautiful for you and your family.