Here’s an example of the right shot, one of Marc’s school portaits.

School has started anew, and pretty soon kids everywhere are going to be sitting in front of a camera and immortalizing their faces for their school portraits in the yearbook. This is understandably a tense moment. After all, this photograph will be seen by everyone else and will be how all their crushes remember them in the years to come. So to prepare your young subject for everything from kindergarten pictures to senior portraits, follow these quick tips to ensure everything turns out flawless.

Rest

– A well-rested, fresh-faced subject will always take a better picture than someone with bags under their eyes. Plenty of sleep will also make them more comfortable and relaxed in front of a camera.

Hair Cut

-A recent trimming usually leaves hard lines, so tell them not to get a hair cut right before the shoot. This will also leave ample time to grow a more natural look.

Makeup

– It’s called Cake-face and it has ruined more photos than you can imagine. If you can’t tell when to say when, test it out on a close friend or loved-one. If they can’t tell who you are anymore, you’ve got too much make-up on.

Clothing

– Everyone remembers the goofy kid who wore the tight leather shirt and a clock around his neck. Don’t let them be that kid.

Background

– Some school photographers will let you choose a background color. If possible, pick something that contrasts with their outfit or matches their eyes.

Hat Hair

– Boys like to wear caps, but many are unaware of the mess that’s left when they take them off. Make sure to keep the hats at home before unveiling your child to the world.

Practice

– Before the shoot,  have your kids practice sitting, posing and smiling in front of the mirror. This way they know what expression looks best and what to ask of you, the photographer. If your child is having his or her portrait taken, practicing a smile beforehand will make it look more fluid and natural sitting for a picture.