The Modern School Portrait is here to stay!

Modern school portraits are here to stay! Gone are the days of stiff poses, cheesy backdrops, and forced grins that define traditional school portraits. As a photographer, I’m flipping the script and bringing a whole new vibe to school photos. My modern approach is all about capturing the real you—no fake smiles allowed! Here’s why my school portraits are a total game-changer:

1. Authentic Expressions: Say Cheese? More Like Say “You!”

Remember those awkward school photos where you had to plaster on a smile that felt more like a grimace? I’m here to save the day. I make kids feel super comfortable, chatting with them and letting their true personalities shine. The result? Genuine, heartwarming smiles (or thoughtful, silly, or serious faces) that truly reflect who they are. It’s a modern take on the school portraits!

With me behind the camera, every student gets to show off their unique self. These portraits aren’t just snapshots; they’re snapshots of real moments, bursting with personality and charm. Parents and kids love them because they’re a true slice of life, capturing each student exactly as they are.

2. Timeless Backgrounds: Classic and Cool

Forget those loud, distracting backdrops that make school photos look dated faster than you can say “awkward.” I’ve got a knack for picking timeless, neutral backgrounds that make the students pop. Think classic and elegant, without any of the fuss.

These backgrounds are all about letting the student be the star of the show. No more clashing colours or outdated patterns—just a clean, simple backdrop that keeps the focus right where it should be. Plus, these photos age like fine wine, looking just as fabulous years down the line as they do today. Modern school portraits for the modern day family!

3. No Forced Smiles: Just Be Yourself!

One of the worst parts of traditional school portraits? The dreaded “say cheese!” that results in awkward, unnatural smiles. My modern school portrait approach is refreshingly different. I don’t force kids to smile if they’re not feeling it. Instead, I capture a range of emotions, whether it’s a big laugh, a quiet smile, or a thoughtful gaze.

By ditching the forced smiles, my photos are full of life and character. They show kids as they truly are, whether they’re bursting with energy or deep in thought. It’s this authenticity that makes my modern school portraits so special—they’re real moments, not just posed pictures.

Book your school for a Modern School Portrait!

My modern school portraits are a delightful twist on the old-school approach. With a focus on authentic expressions, timeless backgrounds, and natural emotions, I’m redefining what school photos can be. My portraits are fun, fresh, and full of personality, capturing the true essence of each student. As more schools catch on to this cool new trend, the days of awkward, outdated school portraits are fading fast. Say hello to school photos you’ll actually want to hang on your wall!

If your school, preschool or daycare is looking for a school photographer in Vancouver for Spring or Fall, contact me and we can chat more about my process! Annie is a Vancouver school photographer who specializes in authentic modern school portraits of preschool children.

Follow me on Instagram where I regularly post school photo day tips and family photo tips too!