What to Wear for School Photos-Bakersfield School Photographer

Choosing the right outfit for school photos can make all the difference in how the final pictures turn out. Here are my recommendations to ensure your child looks their best and feels comfortable on picture day:

Opt for Solid Colors

When Your Background Is Black Or Dark Gray

I recommend selecting solid colors that will stand out against a classic black background. This contrast helps your child’s face and expression become the focal point of the photo. Solid colors like blue, white, or pastel shades work wonderfully. Something you might be surprised by, is wearing bold primary colors. Red, royal blue, or golden yellow can stand out and add a fun, vibrant touch. Rich jewel tones also are a lovely contrast to dark gray and black backgrounds. Deep colors like emerald green, sapphire blue, burgundy, and plum pop beautifully against the dark background.

When Your Background Is Cream Or White Color

I recommend earthy & warm tones. Rust, mustard, deep greens, and warm browns will look rich and cohesive. You could also dress your child in soft pastels. Blush pink, dusty blue, lavender, or sage green create a gentle, timeless look. Deep jewel tones also look great with almost any color background. Navy, emerald, burgundy, and plum add a pop of contrast while still looking classic. You can also never go wrong with classic neutrals – Soft gray, camel, or even crisp white work well for a clean and polished feel.

When Your Background Is A Pecan or Light Brown Color

You can never go wrong with those earthy & warm tones. Deep greens (forest, olive), burnt orange, mustard yellow, and warm rust tones complement the warmth of the background beautifully. Jewel tones also contrast well with a light brown background, while still feeling rich and sophisticated. You’ll want to go for a navy blue, emerald green, burgundy and even a deep plum. You can also consider cream & light neutrals. Off-white, ivory, or soft beige provide a gentle contrast without clashing. Even cooler blues & purples work really well– Dusty blue, periwinkle, and deep purple balance the warmth of the background nicely.

What to Avoid

🚫 Neon Colors – Too harsh against a soft background.
🚫 Colors Too Close to the background color – Colors too similar to the background may blend in too much.
🚫 Busy Patterns & Large Graphics – Stick to solid colors or subtle textures for a timeless look.

Avoid Patterns, Words, and Graphics

To keep the focus on your child, steer clear of clothing with stripes, patterns, words, or graphics. These elements can draw attention away from their face and create visual clutter in the photo.

Choose Classic and Simple Tops

A nice blouse or button-up shirt, a collared shirt, or a simple solid-color tee is perfect for school photos. These classic options provide a clean and timeless look that keeps the emphasis on your child’s personality and expression.

Skip the Hair Bows and Flashy Accessories

While hair bows and other accessories might seem like a cute addition, they often end up being distracting in the final image. Keeping accessories minimal ensures that the focus remains on your child’s sweet face and natural charm.

Coordinate, Don't Match

If siblings are being photographed together, aim for coordinating outfits rather than matching ones. Choose colors that complement each other without being identical. This approach creates a harmonious look without making the children look too similar.

Encourage Good Dental Hygiene

A bright, clean smile is always a winning feature in photos. Make sure your kiddos brush their teeth well before picture day, especially if they’re excited to show off their grin. A clean, happy smile can make a big difference in the final photograph.

Final Thoughts

By choosing the right outfit and keeping things simple, you can help ensure that your child's school photos capture their true essence. Solid colors that pop against a black background, classic and simple tops, minimal accessories, and a clean smile all contribute to a picture-perfect moment. With these tips, your child will be ready to shine in their school photos.