Capture the joy and wonder of childhood with Playtime Portraits, exclusively for daycares, preschools, and kindergartens!
These natural, candid portraits showcase authentic moments of laughter, exploration, and play while utilizing the schoolyard as the backdrop. We capture the smiles, giggles, and sweetness of the early years without stiff poses and no forcing anyone to sit still. We'll meet them where they're at developmentally to capture their unique personalities!
PICK A DATE
Let me know what time frame you're thinking of. Once the date is scheduled, let your families know that picture day is coming up! Information on clothing selection and image ordering will be provided.
PRepare THE SPACE
Portraits will take place on the school playground or designated outdoor play space. The area should offer plenty of shade so children can open their eyes comfortably. While the space doesn't need to be pristine, you will want to clear out any clutter prior to picture day. If you're not sure if your outdoor space will work, send me a picture of the area to give me an idea of what we have to work with.
PICTURE DAY
When picture day arrives, each child will spend a few minutes walking along a short interactive path that works for candid photos.
PROOF GALLERY + ORDER DELIVERY
Families will receive a proof gallery via email shortly after the shoot, as well as an order form to purchase their images electronically. Print orders will be delivered to the school for distribution. Orders are typically fulfilled within three weeks.
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How are Playtime Portraits different from traditional school photos?
Playtime Portraits are just that -- portraits of the student as they play. Children are free to explore a designated path and not expected to sit in front of a backdrop.
Our school has students who are younger/older than preschool/kindergarten. Can we still offer these sessions?
In most cases, yes! Sessions are primarily geared toward young learners who spend more time playing than older students, but they will absolutely work for younger/older students who enjoy exploring the outdoors.
What kind of play space is required?
The setting for these sessions will be your school's playground or the designated play space the children use on a daily basis. Children should be comfortable with the space and feel confident interacting with it. Photo day would not be a good time to introduce a new environment. The area should also have plenty of shade so their eyes are not burned by the sun.
How much time does photo day take?
Plan for each child to spend a few minutes in the space. If you have a large number of students, two days might be needed to get through everyone.
What about retakes?
If a child is absent on photo day, a make-up day will not be possible. However, it is strongly suggested that schools offer two photo day options each year -- one in the fall and one in the spring. This will ensure that all families have a chance to participate in photo day.
What happens if the weather doesn't cooperate on photo day?
If the weather is unsafe for the children or the equipment, your photo day will be rescheduled.
Does every student have to participate in photo day?
Not at all. Families may opt out of photo day. Families who do opt out are under no obligation to purchase a class photo, but ALL students must participate in the class photo so that no child is excluded from the group.
How much do the finished products cost?
Print and digital products are priced very reasonably, starting at $10. Families are under no obligation to purchase.
What if a family doesn't like their child's photo?
Families are under no obligation to make a purchase. If their child is very shy (or not interested in getting their picture taken) and the proof gallery reflects that, families are strongly encouraged to try again next season!
How many volunteers are needed to assist on photo day?
This will depend on how many children are participating. For smaller schools, we might only need the assistance of one teacher or parent volunteer. If no one from the school is available, I can bring a helper along. For larger schools, two parent helpers would be ideal: one parent to escort the children to and from the classroom, and another parent to help guide the children along our playground path. If no one is available from the school to assist, please let me know ahead of time so I can plan accordingly.
Our school has a beautiful indoor space. Can you take photos inside instead of the playground?
Yes. If you would prefer the backdrop be a beautiful classroom space, we can make it work as long as it's understood that flash will be necessary to get a crisp image. If you feel your students would be ok with the use of flash in the classroom, then we can work indoors. Please send me a photo of the space to give me an idea of room size and available lighting.
