Say goodbye to “say cheese”
School Portrait Photography
School portrait photography doesn’t have to mean forced smiles and stiff poses, resulting in photos that reveal nothing about a child’s personality. I believe there is another way.
I offer portrait sessions designed specifically for the youngest children: relaxed, unhurried, and built around the idea that every child gets to show up exactly as they are.
No posing. No flash pops, no forced smiles. Just your children, seen.
What Makes This School Portrait Photography Different?
With a plain backdrop and simple lighting, the focus is entirely on the child’s authentic personality and expression – nothing competing, nothing distracting. Sessions are short, just 1 to 3 minutes each, and I take a patient, friendly approach that helps even the most hesitant kids feel comfortable.
I don’t ask for a specific expression. Some children are silly and smiley. Some are quiet and watchful. Some need a minute to warm up. All of that is welcome, and all of it makes for a more authentic portrait than any posed alternative. The result: a real portrait of a real child, made with care.
“[Emily] truly captures my kids’ personalities in such a genuine, beautiful way, and that is not easy to do.
The photos always feel authentic to who they really are, which makes them so special … Emily has such a gift with children, and it really shows in her work.”
School Portrait Photography: What to Expect
Once we have chosen your Picture Day date, I’ll make sure the school has all the communication tools needed to inform and prepare families.
Parents will be invited to pre-register with me so that I can deliver galleries directly (and privately) to the families – no more work needed from the school!
On Picture Day, kids will spend 1 to 3 minutes with me while I capture several images of different expressions and reactions as they unfold.
After picture day, I’ll take care of the rest. Each family receives their own private gallery directly from me. From their gallery, families can view all of their child’s images in both color and black and white, and download or order what they love. Everything is à la carte: no packages, no pressure. The session itself is free for all families; they only pay if they choose to order.
Class photos and staff portraits are available upon request.
School Portrait Photography: F.A.Q.
How is this different from what we do now?
If you currently do school portraits for your students, my style and approach may be different from what you’re used to. The main difference: many photographers insist on a specific pose and a big smile from each child – which in my opinion is not respectful to every child’s true disposition and comfort with the experience. I think many school portraits fall flat when it comes to truly capturing a child’s personality.
What I offer is a simple, relaxed experience where nobody is asked to perform. Each family receives multiple images to choose from, which means they actually end up with a photo that looks and feels like their child.
What does the school need to provide?
I bring all equipment needed and require only a small room, alcove, hallway or similar space. A teacher or parent volunteer’s help in managing the kids coming and going from the studio area is appreciated, since your staff and families know the children best, and their involvement can help shy kids feel more comfortable.
How many children can you photograph?
I work with preschools and daycares of all sizes. We’ll plan the schedule together to make sure the day runs smoothly for your community.
When do you schedule sessions?
I book school portrait photography sessions in winter and early spring. Get in touch and we’ll find a date that works for your school’s calendar.
What do families pay?
The session is completely free. Families browse their own private gallery afterward and order only what they want.
School Portrait Photographer Emily Sterne
As a family photographer based in Arlington, MA, I can say that young children are genuinely my favorite people to photograph. I’ve spent years working with families with kids of all ages, but the toddler and preschool stages hold a special place in my heart. I know how to move at their pace, meet them where they are, and make something real in just a few minutes together.
I believe every child deserves to be seen for exactly who they are. My school portrait photography reflects that belief and shares the same values I bring to every family session across Arlington, Cambridge, Somerville, Belmont, Lexington, and across the greater Boston area.
“Emily’s portraits aren’t just any portraits. In only a few minutes, she magically brought to life my kids’ energy and personalities from behind the camera, and the results are truly breathtaking. There was never a mention of ‘sit still’ or ‘smile’ – instead, she captured their natural selves, goofiness and all.”
