Just relax and say ‘cheese’

How to get a picture-perfect school portrait

For many parents, there’s something special about school picture day. But today’s kids, surrounded by photo technology, may not be fazed by another click of the camera, says Lisa Van Etta, who recently retired after 17 years as a yearbook adviser at a high school in Houston.

“I just think they are so wrapped up in Facebook and texting and all of that that they just don’t really have time to worry about their school picture,” she says.

Still, school pictures provide a rare professional sitting and, if done well, provide a seamless look at a child’s growth and personality over the years.

“Many people are taking thousands and thousands of pictures every year ... They don’t realize how much of their memory is in something digital,” says Steve Lata, a photographer and territory manager with Missouri-based Inter-State Studio Inc., which takes millions of children’s school photos each year.

“The school portrait is one of the only things getting printed and hung on the wall anymore.”

A few simple steps by parents can make picture day a success. Above all, help children be comfortable having their portrait taken. They should feel good about their appearance, but not pose.

“The most important thing about a school portrait is having that genuine countenance of the child. We don’t want them to be artificial, we want them to be as relaxed as possible,” says Kelvin Miller, corporate vice-president of Minnesota-based LifeTouch School Photography.

Choose clothing in solid colours or simple patterns, and avoid shirts with slogans. Keep the accessories simple and small. Long sleeves will provide less visual distraction than short or sleeveless tops.

Clothing for portraits doesn’t need to be formal. Even a favourite, oft-worn shirt can be perfect on picture day, Miller says. If possible, help your child choose an outfit that pleases both of you.

“Make it kind of a fun activity … and be willing to compromise,” he suggests.