21 Moments Photography Top 3 Tips


It's hard to believe that another school year is almost back in session. I don't know about you, but it seems like I blinked twice and this summer flew by. With everything that needs to get done with back to school shopping, buying school supplies, going clothes shopping, and everything in between, it's easy to forget about those awesome first (and last) day of school pictures. The first day of school is a cherished tradition and something you just have to capture. I've been doing these for the last 9 years and they are always so fun but do take some planning. Here are my top 3 fail proof tips.


  1. Choose Outfits and Props: The first day of school outfits are classic. This may be a big task for you because your child may be picky about what the clothes they like to wear. I would say it's a teen thing, but having 3 children has taught me that even the littles have an opinion on what they want to wear. That's apart of the fun though and I think having them help pick out their own outfit will help give them the boost of confidence they will need for their big first day back to school. (If your child wears a uniform, you are the luckiest mom on the planet!) So make sure that you get outfits picked out in advance so it will be smooth sailing the morning of school. Also, let your inner kid run a little wild and pick out some fun props. A sign with with 1st day of (insert grade) is classic, a small chalkboard works too. An apple or stack of books is cute. Or even diy-ing some giant crayons or pencils would be fun. Let your imagination run wild. Adding something for your kiddo to hold gives them something to do with their hands and squeezing something eases their little jitters.
  2. Pick out a Location: So this is necessary not only for a cute background, but also for proper lighting. Scout an outdoor location of your choice and check out where the sun shines during the early morning hours. You don't want your little squinting because of the bright sun. I suggest outdoor because this is easiest and something you can do right before heading to school or the bus stop. The simplest spot is in front of your front door because usually it's located under and small roof and will give you a bit of shade. But don't limit yourself there, maybe you have a cute tree in your yard, or a flower bushes, or you want to set up something cute next to your fence. The possibilities are endless. The main key here is making sure lighting and location work hand in hand.
  3. Embrace the Unexpected: Be patient. Matter of fact, wake up a little earlier and sit down to enjoy a cup of coffee that is actually HOT. This will help you ease into the day as opposed to rushing all over the place. Plan to have about 10 extra minutes to take these photos, especially if you have more than one child. I know we all want the cutest, best, smile photos but embrace the chaos of kids being kids. I usually prompt my kiddos to hold a first day of school sign and jump up for one pose and spin around for a pose. This helps them get the wiggles out and maybe even first day of school jitters out. Then we go into stand still and smile obligatory photo. More than anything just aim to capture their personality. They may not be excited or smiley and that's ok, capture the essence of who they are at that exact moment.


A DIY first day of school photoshoot at home is such a fun and unique way to capture all the emotions of this special milestone in your child's life. By following these simple steps you can create lasting memories that you and your child can laugh at during the graduation party. Lol! Too soon? Ok, sorry! But seriously grab your camera or your cell phone and get creative capturing the magic of the first day of school! And don't forget to write a little lunch note or joke for a sweet pick-up-me up in the middle of their day.