Tips For Picture Day Outfits: elementary School Kids

Choose the Outfit Ahead of Time

As children get older, their personal style becomes more of a part of their identity. Giving them some say in what they wear for picture day can help them feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. When a child feels good in what they’re wearing, that confidence tends to come through in their expression and posture.

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What colors work best?

If you’re choosing between a few options, simple and timeless is usually a great place to start. Neutral colors photograph beautifully, and classic shades like navy, cream, gray, denim, olive, burgundy, and soft blues tend to keep the focus on your child’s face.

Avoid Busyness

I’d avoid large logos, very busy patterns, neon colors, or clothing that is so bright that it becomes the first thing you notice in the photograph. That doesn't mean your child can't wear color! A favorite color can be a wonderful way to let their personality show. The goal is simply to make sure the clothing complements your child rather than competing with them.

Make Sure It Fits Well

A well-fitting outfit can make a surprisingly big difference in a portrait.

Before picture day, have your child try on the outfit and make sure everything stays where it should when they sit, stand, and move naturally. This is especially important as children get older.

I've noticed that things like:

• Shoulder straps that are too loose can slip to the side.

• Dresses or tops that are too large can hang lower across the front when sitting.

• Sleeves that are too long can bunch around the hands.

• Shirts that are too tight may pull or bunch when your child moves.

• Collars can curl or sit unevenly.

• Pants or skirts that are too loose may require constant adjusting.

These little things aren't always noticeable when your child is standing in front of you, but they can become much more noticeable once they're sitting or posing for a portrait.

Clean, Comfortable, and Ready to Photograph

Most importantly, make sure the outfit is clean and comfortable. Your child should be able to move and sit naturally without worrying about their clothing.

And please give the outfit a quick check for wrinkles, lint, pet hair, and stray threads before they leave the house. I find it easiest to steam my kids' clothes the night before so I'm not trying to do it while everyone is rushing out the door.

My husband prefers tossing his shirts in the dryer for a few minutes to release wrinkles. Whatever works best for your family!

Don't save a brand-new, never-worn outfit for picture day. If your child has never worn it before, they may spend the entire session adjusting it, pulling at it, or feeling uncomfortable. A favorite outfit that fits well and makes them feel like themselves will almost always photograph better than something that looks perfect on the hanger.

If you have a question or have an idea for your family portraits, I’d love to hear it. Send me an email.

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