I adore School Marketing and School Prospectus Photography – it’s possibly my favourite genre. I’ve photographed many schools and colleges throughout the South East of England including Ardingly College (Sussex), Cumnor House School (Sussex), Lingfield College (Surrey) and Kings College School in London. I specialise in natural lifestyle school marketing photography that can be used by schools and colleges for editorial and commercial use. My pictures are widely used on Instagram, LinkedIn, School websites, school prospectuses, banners and posters for displaying around school and on open days. I’ve put this article together to give you tips on planning your school photoshoot – I hope you’ll find it useful if you’ve got a shoot booked or are considering one for the future.
planning ahead
Careful planning will ensure you get the best and widest variety of pictures from your shoot. I photograph schools throughout the year but the beginning of the new school year is especially popular. September is a good time to capture the new intake of children in their smart uniform. Equally, the end of the Summer term gets very busy with great weather and plenty of summer activities to photograph. Bookings are taken on a first come/first served basis – please get in touch as soon as you can to secure your date.
choosing your models
The most photogenic children are those with confidence, especially with younger children. It’s good to choose children that can take some gentle direction and don’t mind being centre stage for a little while. My photography style is very relaxed and I encourage lots of natural smiles and laughs. Don’t forget to consider the diversity of children you’d like to represent too. Please make sure you know who doesn’t have permission to be photographed so can make sure they are not in the pictures.
uniform check
Uniform checks are essential before we start shooting. It’s advisable to choose the students with the smartest uniform and those that comply with your jewellery/makeup/hair policies too! I also ask that children remove mobile phones/calculators from their pockets.
A note on sixth-formers
I hate to generalise but sixth-formers can be a reluctant bunch! From past experience, they don’t like to be surprised with a photo shoot. If they are pre-warned and have a chance to sort their hair and make-up they tend to be more willing participants. I’m also happy to show them images on the back of the camera as we shoot. All children are pleasantly surprised when see how the photos are turning out.
Factor in break time
My favourite images are unposed and natural ones taken during break time. I love observing from a distance, capturing the magical moments and friendship interactions that can’t be planned. It’s a great opportunity to capture friendship groups as they walk around your school grounds. These ’emotional hook’ photos are often the best for attracting parents to your school or college. For ‘All day’ bookings I’m very happy to photograph some of the lunch break too (as long as I can have a break and a bite to eat!).
avoiding distractions
There’s nothing worse than having a great picture ruined by distractions. I could really do with your help on this though. Although I can eliminate a certain amount by focusing in on my subject and blurring backgrounds sometimes it’s better to remove the distractions altogether. Desks can sometimes look cluttered so it’s worth asking children to place water bottles or chunky pencil cases underneath the desk just whilst I’m photographing (either pre-warn teachers beforehand or ask them to make a little announcement as we enter the classroom). I’m always on the lookout for wastepaper bins too – and will just move them out of the way if need be – an extra pair of eyes is always invaluable.
standing out from the crowd
Think about the unique parts of your school or college that set you apart from your competition and include them in your photoshoot. I’ve recently photographed a hairdressing class, definitely a first for me!
capture the buildings too
Factor in some time to include shots of your buildings, grounds and facilities that make your school unique.
include teachers
Interactions with teachers always make fantastic photos and are an essential part of your school marketing portfolio.
Photo sizes
You’ll receive a selection of landscape, portrait and square images as standard. If you require a more specific photo size or crop (such as a website banner) please ensure you tell me beforehand so that I can shoot accordingly.
budgeting for your school marketing photography
My School marketing photography prices are charged by the hour. My half and full-day packages are the most popular. I know that it’s important for you to get a wide variety of images and I will help you plan and timetable your day to ensure we get the most out of your budget.
For more information and a full price list head over to my School Prospectus page or contact me using the button below.
