Back to School First Day Photos
I have always loved back-to-school time of year, but every teacher just cursed me. There is something about a fresh start I crave and need; new school supplies and getting back into a much-needed routine. The cooler weather is just on the horizon. Ah! I cannot wait! It is my absolute favorite.
I also love that my newsfeeds on Instagram and Facebook are filled with pictures of your kiddos looking great on the first day back to school. But I am a mom too, and I know what’s really going on. You (the mom) are running around like a crazy person, ensuring your kids are ready for their first day. You have been out of this early morning routine for two months, and sister, it ain’t easy. But you know you want to showcase your babies on Instagram. So, you rush them to the front door. Try to get them to smile, load up in the car, and race to school.
Hi, my name is Kayla, and I’ve been there. I have posted the “this will have to do” photo many times. But I must tell you, you are doing it all wrong. So was I.
I finally wised up this past year and realized that taking his photo on the first morning he is actually going to school is unnecessary. So, I will let you in on a little secret: I took these photos a week before actual school started.
I dressed him in the same outfit he wore on the first day, but I made a fun little session of it. Also, that antique desk belongs to my BFF’s mom. We take photos with it every year to see how much our kids have grown. Nori (my BFF’s daughter) and Worth are going to look great with this set-up when they are heading off to their senior year.
No, you do not have to do an “all-out” styled session. I am not a big fan of styled sessions for my son, but this one is so important to me because it allows me to see how much he is growing and changing through the years compared to that desk. You can simply take your pictures in front of your door just like you would on the actual first day.
Last year when I did this, something else I was not expecting happened. It took the stress off in the morning. I was much more laid back because I knew I already had one thing checked off my to-do list on a busy morning. I still had time to snap a photo of him with my iPhone. He was not exactly smiling like I would have liked, but that’s ok because I knew I already had these ready!
HOW TO GET THE BEST PHOTOS
- Order their outfits in advance to ensure it is on time (like, now. Do that. Get rush shipping).
- Take the photos at least one week in advance (or today if school starts tomorrow).
- Try different locations. You might find one that’s a staple location for the years to come.
- Enjoy your morning on the first day of school. Snap a photo if you would like with your phone, but don’t stress because you already have some good ones!
I can’t WAIT to see your photos! Make sure to tag me on Instagram (@kaylabrint) and Facebook with your shot. Here’s to a GREAT school year!
Also, full disclosure: These photos were taken with my DSLR camera (fancy camera.) Want to learn to take great photos of your kids (or business) just like this with your fancy camera? I can help! You can find more photography resources at www.kaylabrint.com/education.
