school picture day
the little years
school pictures, just a little different
The little faces. The missing teeth. The wild curls. The serious stares. The smiles that only show up when no one is asking for them.
This is school picture day — just a little less say cheese.
My goal is simple: beautiful, timeless photographs that actually feel like your child.
No forced smiles. No stiff poses. Just their personality, exactly as it is right now.
meet hilary
mom- former teacher- photographer
Hi! I’m Hilary — photographer, former teacher, mom of two, and professional chatterbox.
Before photography, I spent my days in the classroom, so working with little people feels pretty familiar around here. I know some kids will walk right up ready for their close-up... and some would rather be literally anywhere else.
That’s okay.
My job isn’t to make your child perform for the camera. I’ll chat with them, be a little silly, and give them space to be themselves. Big smiles, tiny smirks, serious faces — I want it all.
Because the goal isn’t the perfect school picture.
It’s a picture that feels like them.
what to expect
on picture day
Picture day is designed to be quick, easy, and — dare I say — actually fun.
Your child will come to me during the school day with their class. I’ll spend a few minutes chatting with them, being a little silly, and capturing a variety of expressions along the way.
Some kids are ready to go the second they sit down. Some need a minute. Some tell me they are absolutely NOT taking a picture.
All are welcome. 😂
There’s no pressure to smile and no need to practice one at home. In fact, please don’t! Send them to school exactly as they are, and I’ll take it from there.
what to wear
keep it simple
The most important thing? Dress them like themselves.
Simple, classic pieces photograph beautifully. Neutrals, earthy tones, jewel tones, soft patterns and textures are always great choices.
I recommend avoiding neon colors, large logos, or anything that might distract from their sweet little face.
But please don't feel like picture day requires a brand-new outfit. Favorite dress? Perfect. The button-down that suddenly makes them look five years older? Also perfect.
Your kiddo is the star here.
after picture day
the fun part
No order forms. No guessing which package you want before you've even seen the pictures.
After picture day, you'll receive a link to your child's private online gallery. Take a look through their images, choose your favorites, and purchase only what you love.
You'll have options for digital images as well as professional-quality prints, so whether you want one favorite for the fridge or every single expression because narrowing it down is impossible — I've got you.
Galleries will only be available for a limited time, so be sure to order before the deadline listed in your gallery email.
And don't worry. I will remind you. Because I, too, have opened an email, thought I'll do that later, and then never thought about it again. 😂
PICTURE DAY PRICING
SEE THEM FIRST. CHOOSE WHAT YOU LOVE.
There is no fee to participate in Picture Day and no need to order ahead of time.
Once galleries are delivered, simply choose what you love — one favorite, the full gallery, professional prints, or a little of everything.
No packages to commit to. No purchasing photos you haven't seen yet.
Bonus: A digital class composite is included with any Picture Day purchase.
a few more things
DO I NEED TO ORDER BEFORE PICTURE DAY?
Nope! There is no fee to participate and nothing to purchase ahead of time. You’ll receive your child’s private online gallery first, then simply choose what you love.
HOW IS MY CHILD'S PRIVACY PROTECTED?
Your child's privacy is incredibly important to me. Picture Day galleries are not available to the general public, and I work with each school to determine the best way to securely deliver and protect student galleries.
Depending on the school's chosen setup, individual galleries may be password protected, with access information provided directly to families.
Images of your child will never be shared publicly without appropriate permission.
WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY CHILD’S GALLERY?
Your child’s private online gallery will be delivered by email within three weeks of Picture Day. Keep an eye on your inbox — galleries often arrive sooner!
HOW LONG WILL I HAVE TO ORDER?
Your gallery will be available for a limited time, and the exact ordering deadline will be included in your gallery email. Don’t worry — I’ll send a reminder before it closes. Because I, too, have opened an email, thought I’ll do that later, and then completely forgotten about it. 😂
CAN SIBLINGS TAKE A PICTURE TOGETHER?
Absolutely! If siblings attend the same school, I’m happy to grab a few pictures of them together in addition to their individual portraits.
Each child will still be photographed individually and receive their own private gallery.
WILL THERE BE A CLASS PHOTO?
Yes — just a little differently! Instead of a traditional group photograph, each classroom will receive a class composite featuring the students individually.
A digital class composite is included with any Picture Day purchase, and an 8×10 printed class composite is available for $18.
WHAT IF MY CHILD DOESN’T SMILE?
That’s okay! Truly. There is no smile requirement around here.
Big grin, tiny smirk, serious stare, belly laugh — my goal is to capture your child exactly as they are right now.
WHAT IF MY CHILD IS ABSENT ON PICTURE DAY?
Life happens! Makeup options will depend on the school and Picture Day schedule. If your child is absent, reach out and I’ll do my best to help figure something out.
CAN I ORDER PRINTS?
Absolutely. Professional-quality prints can be ordered directly through your child’s private gallery, along with high-resolution digital images.
DO DIGITAL IMAGES INCLUDE PRINTING RIGHTS?
Yes! Purchased digital images are high-resolution and include a personal print release, so you’re welcome to download, share and print them for personal use.