Capture Back to School Magic: Tips on Taking Great First Day of School Photos

As a photographers, we've had the pleasure of capturing countless milestones, but there’s something uniquely special about the first day of school. It’s a day filled with excitement, nerves, and a sense of new beginnings. As a mom, you want to remember every detail, from their carefully chosen outfit to the way they nervously clutch their backpack. Here are some tips and tricks to help you capture these precious moments beautifully, even with just your phone!

1. Plan Ahead

The morning of the first day of school can be chaotic, so a little planning goes a long way. Decide the night before where you’ll take the photos—whether it’s in front of the house, by the front door, or at the bus stop. Make sure the area is clutter-free and well-lit. If possible, try a few test shots to see how the light looks at that time of day.

2. Capture the Details

It’s the little things that tell the story. Before your child heads out the door, take some close-up shots of their new backpack, shoes, or any special accessories they’re excited about. These detail shots will complement the wider, posed shots and help create a fuller memory of the day.

3. Use Natural Light

Lighting is everything in photography! For the best results, try to take your photos in natural light. Early morning light is soft and flattering, so take advantage of it. If you’re shooting indoors, position your child near a window for the most natural light. Avoid using the flash, as it can create harsh shadows and unnatural colors.

4. Get Creative with Poses

Sure, the classic “standing in front of the house” pose is a must, but don’t be afraid to mix it up! Have your child hold a sign with their grade level or year, or snap a candid shot of them walking down the driveway with their backpack on. Try capturing their reactions when they see their friends at the bus stop or that last wave goodbye before they head off to class.

5. Focus on the Emotions

The first day of school is an emotional rollercoaster, and those emotions are what make the photos truly special. Whether it’s the nervous excitement in their eyes or the pride in their smile, focus on capturing those feelings. Don’t worry if the shot isn’t perfectly posed—sometimes the best photos are the ones that capture real, raw emotions.

6. Involve Siblings

If you have more than one child, take some photos of them together. Sibling photos are always a hit, and they can help ease any first-day jitters. Have them walk hand-in-hand, give each other a hug, or just stand side by side. These moments will be treasures as they grow older.

7. Don’t Forget the Parents

It’s a big day for you too! Hand the camera (or phone) to your partner or a neighbor and get in the shot. Whether it’s a quick selfie or a more posed shot, make sure you’re part of the memories too. Years from now, you’ll be glad you did.

8. Capture the Morning Routine

Before the hustle and bustle of getting out the door begins, take some photos of your child's morning routine. Whether they’re eating breakfast, brushing their teeth, or packing their backpack, these candid moments will tell the story of how they started their big day. Capture the excitement in their eyes as they get ready, or the quiet concentration as they tie their shoes. These shots are a great way to document the whole experience of the first day of school, not just the final posed picture.

9. Edit for Impact

After you’ve taken your photos, take a few minutes to edit them. Adjust the brightness, contrast, and crop the image if needed. There are plenty of free editing apps that can help you enhance your photos quickly and easily. Just a few tweaks can make a big difference!

10. Have Fun!

Most importantly, have fun with it! The first day of school is a milestone worth celebrating, and your photos should reflect that. Let your child’s personality shine through, and don’t stress too much about getting the “perfect” shot. The best photos are the ones that capture the joy and excitement of the day.

As a mom and a photographer, I know how quickly these moments pass. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to capture beautiful, lasting memories of your child’s first day of school. Happy shooting! 📸

Share this blog post with your fellow moms, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help capturing any of your family’s special moments. Here’s to a great school year ahead!