What to Wear for School Photo Day: Tips from Your NH School Photographer

School Photo Day is almost here! Choosing the perfect outfit, hairstyle, and accessories doesn’t have to be stressful. As your local NH school photographer, I’ve got some easy tips to help your child look their best and feel confident on picture day.

Clothing: Keep It Simple and Comfortable

Since school photos are taken from the chest up, focus on the top half of your child’s outfit. Here are a few quick tips:

Opt for Solid Colors: Solid neutral colors work best. They keep the focus on your child’s face, rather than their outfit. If you love patterns, go for something subtle.
Keep It Timeless: Choose simple, classic styles that won’t look dated in a few years—like a nice shirt, dress, or sweater. Avoid big logos or graphics.
Comfort Is Key: Make sure your child feels comfortable and confident. If they feel good in what they’re wearing, it will show in their smile!

Where to Shop:

NH Family Photographer Baby Girl Portrait

Hair: Simple and Natural Wins the Day

Hair can make a big difference in school photos! Here are some tips for making sure it looks great:

Go for Clean and Neat: Make sure hair is freshly washed and neatly styled. For boys, a little hair gel can help tame flyaways and keep everything in place. For girls, a natural style like loose waves, a neat ponytail, or a simple braid works beautifully.
Avoid Last-Minute Changes: Photo day is not the time to experiment with a brand-new haircut or style. Stick with a hairstyle that feels comfortable and familiar.
Accessorize Thoughtfully: Hair accessories like headbands, bows, or clips can be a fun addition, but make sure they are not too large or distracting. The goal is to enhance, not overwhelm!

Accessories: Less Is More

When it comes to accessories, a little can go a long way:

Think About Glasses: If your child normally wears glasses, they should wear them for their school photo.
Avoid Hats or Large Hairpieces: Hats and large hairpieces can cast shadows or cover parts of the face. It’s best to leave them at home for picture day.
Keep Jewelry Simple: If your child wants to wear jewelry, stick to small, simple pieces like stud earrings or a delicate necklace. Large, dangling earrings or chunky necklaces can draw attention away from the face.

What to Avoid: Say No to Distracting Elements

Here are a few things to avoid to ensure the best possible school photo:

Busy Patterns and Loud Prints: These can distract from your child’s face and make the photo look overly cluttered.
Neon Colors: Bright neon colors like lime green or hot pink can reflect light and create unflattering tints on the skin.
Large Logos or Slogans: They can be distracting and take the focus away from your child’s face.

A Final Word from a NH School Photographer

School photos are a snapshot in time, capturing a moment in your child’s life that you’ll cherish for years to come. I’ll encourage your child to smile naturally and be themselves. A genuine, happy expression will always outshine any outfit or accessory.

Remember, these photos are all about capturing your child’s unique personality. With these tips in mind, you’re set to make this year’s school photo day the best one yet!