What to Wear for School Photo Day | Virginia Beach School Photographer

What to Wear for School Photo Day

Preparing for school photo day? Choosing what your child wears can make a big difference in how their portrait turns out. Whether you're working with me or another photographer, these simple tips will help you choose an outfit that keeps the focus where it belongs: on your child.

Keep It Simple and Solid

For fine art school portraits, solid colors are my first choice. They keep the focus on your child's face and expressions without competing with them. Think classic, muted colors rather than loud or neon shades. And I really can't say this enough: skip the neon. Bright colors can reflect onto the skin and actually make your child's face appear tinted in the final image. I'd also avoid character T-shirts, large graphics, logos, and loud prints. While they might be a favorite at home, they can be distracting in a portrait.

Choose a Comfortable, Classic Top

Comfort matters! A child who feels comfortable in what they're wearing is much more likely to relax and give those genuine expressions. Simple collars, sweaters, polos, blouses, and classic necklines all photograph well. Texture can also add some interest without becoming distracting - a soft knit sweater or a simple cotton shirt can work beautifully. Most importantly, make sure the shirt fits well. Something too tight, too loose, or uncomfortable can make it harder for your child to relax in front of the camera.

Avoid Distracting Accessories

When it comes to school portraits, less is usually more. Large bows, hats, statement headbands, and other oversized accessories can pull attention away from your child's face. They can also create shadows or cover facial features. If your child wears a hair accessory, keep it simple and make sure it isn't covering their eyes or large portions of their face.

Hair & Grooming

A little prep goes a long way. Make sure your child's hair is neat and out of their eyes so we can clearly see their face and expressions. This doesn't mean you need to do anything elaborate - a simple hairstyle that your child is comfortable wearing is perfect. And don't worry about making everything too perfect. We're photographing your child, not a mannequin. A little personality is a good thing!

Things to avoid...

If you're standing in the closet wondering what not to choose, here's the short list:

• Neon or extremely bright colors

• Large logos or graphics

• Character T-shirts

• Loud or busy patterns

• Oversized bows or accessories

• Hats that cover the face

• Anything your child doesn't feel comfortable wearing

When in doubt, simple wins.

Final Thoughts

The goal of school portraits isn't to create a perfectly styled version of your child. It's to capture them - their personality, expressions, and the little details you'll want to remember years from now. Choose something comfortable, keep the outfit simple, and don't overthink it. Your child's personality is what will make the portrait special - not what they're wearing. And if you're still unsure between a couple of outfits, feel free to reach out. I'm always happy to help!