5 First Day of School Picture Tips & Printable Interview

Taking back-to-school photos doesn’t have to be boring OR just about the kiddos. Back to School photos can be serious, fun, traditional or creative – and they don’t have to be only on the first day of school.

1. Scout a Cool Location : A stack of books on a cool staircase instantly transforms “look at us at the beginning of this school year” from expected to seriously wall worthy. Think about locations that say something about your kids or your family.

2. Include the Family: Speaking of locations that are meaningful to the family – include the family in the pictures. Even if it’s just a self-timer family pic. Going back to school is a milestone for everyone and it can be fun to see how each family member changes from September to May. Plus, it’s a great way to include siblings who might not be headed off to school and feel left out.

3. Capture the Emotion: Are the kiddos giddy or nervous at breakfast? Is your enthusiastic second grader biting her lip at the bus stop? Is your introvert son SO EXCITED to see his best friend? Remember that there is just as much value in a “real” moment than a perfect “look at the camera and smile” moment.

4. Look for the Details: Odds are the school supplies, backpack and coveted new shoes won’t be pristine and shiny for very long. Take the time to absorb and document the little details – even if it’s just a packed lunch or new folder with your fifth grader’s name penned in their best handwriting. If you have classroom access, take some images of the classroom or with the teacher, too.

5. The Big Picture: A shot of the kids walking down the street to school or the bus pulling away on the first day, a wide view of the school from your car window in car line, or a shot of the kids lined up and ready to find their parents at the end of the day all tell important parts of the narrative. Try to capture the movement and “big view” of the school day.

First Day of School Interview

So you survived the first day of school pictures, didn’t embarrass anyone, captured the littles, and now everyone is home… Let’s talk about the day! This interview can be used with big or little kids. Let the big ones fill it out on their own and then use their answers as conversation starters and write in the answers (verbatim!) of your little kids’ first day.

DOWNLOAD THE >>> first day of school interview printable <<< HERE.