Taking photos of your kid on the first day of school is a time-honored mom tradition. I still love looking back on my own first day of school pics, even when I was at peak awkward stage, in my plaid uniform jumper beside my brothers.
While so much of our generation’s childhood was captured in one camera shot, our children are now subjected to SO many moments we want to save (thank you, smartphones!). Curating all of our kid’s childhood photos can be a job in and of itself—but that’s a post for another day. Today, we’ve rounded up some simple ideas to creatively capture your child’s first day of school.
We’re certainly not suggesting you do all of these, lest your kid is frowning once they actually arrive at school, but hopefully, they spark an idea or two. And you’ll have a few (or a few hundred) memories to look back on and smile—or laugh.
We’ve rounded up 10+ ways to get creative with photos this year—scroll down to see and shop some of our favorite props for the perfect pic!
1. With a Letter Board or a Sign
Source: @ojuspatel
Source: @downwithadventure
Felt Letter Board
Want to fit more words on a bigger sign? Try this 12x17" version.
10+ colors available
First Day of School Dry Erase Board
The perfect option to use year after year.
multiple fonts & styles available
First Day of School Chalkboard
An actual chalkboard (not a printable) that can be customized with your child's name and updated with chalk or chalk pens each year.
First Day of School Rustic Sign
Perfect to use with more than one child, this option is minimalist and cute.
2. With Celebratory Balloons
Source: @mama.jots
Hello School Balloon
What kid doesn't love a balloon? Options available from preschool through senior year of high school.
Mylar Apple Balloon
Have this apple blown up with helium at the grocery store so you'll be all set for first day of school pics!
3. With Their Sibling(s)
Source: @vanessatobinphoto
Source: @jlgarvin
4. With Their Homeschooling Set-Up
Source: @snyderfamilyco
5. With Their Picture From Last Year
Source: How Does She
6. With a Festive Flag
Source: @raven.vasquez
Source: @mrscofieldandco
First Day of School Flag
Add ribbon to this black and white pennant for a little flair.
Printable version also available here.
First Day of School Flag
If you'd rather the sign be pre-made, ribbon and all, this adorable sign can be customized with colors and stars.
Printable version also available here.
School Grade Pennant
Another adorable felt pennant available in multiple colors.
Buy on its own or grab a full set through 5th grade so you'll be set year after year.
School Printable Flags
Cute downloadable pencil-themed flags cover daycare through 6th grade, so you'll be set year after year.
7. With a High School Graduation T-Shirt
That they’ll grow into a bit more each year!
Source: @mrskaylathompson
Class of 2035 Grow With Me Shirt
Decide whether you want them to grow into the shirt each year or choose a size they can wear right now, while keeping track of their growth with annual hand prints on the back!
sizes 2T - Adult XXXL
multiple colors available
Graduation Class Personalized Shirt
A T-shirt they can grow into. Comes in adult sizes XS - 2XL.
multiple colors available
8. With Sidewalk Chalk
Source: @amylouhawthorne
Crayola Washable Sidewalk Chalk
Write your little one's grade or a celebratory sign on the driveway, sidewalk, or stairs to celebrate the day!
30% off at Target right now!
9. With Fun Props
Source: @frostyourcookie
First Day of School Pencil Banner
We love a banner, and this pencil version with pink felt balls is too cute! Use as a photo background year after year.
Letter Garland
Use this cute garland for school pictures, and add it as decor to your playroom after!
First Day of School Decorations
Create your own photo booth by adding a few school-themed props.
10. With Their New School Gear
Source: @piecesofemerald
11. With Mom (or Dad!)
Because we know it’s a rare moment when mom gets in the picture.
Source: @thebeverlyadams
Source: @itsme.valentina
This article was originally published in 2019 and has been updated for timeliness.
