Timing Is Everything

This week we will discuss the schedule.  There are several factors when it comes to the picture day schedule.  Two basic methods are the common ways to go.

The sign up sheet.

This is where the teachers choose a slot based on the needs of their particular class.  A field trip, test, messy lunch, gym etc. all have an affect on the children and their preparedness for the picture.

The other basic method is youngest grade first to oldest.
The second is easier for the photographer. It takes a little more work to photograph pre-k , kindergartners and first graders.  It also takes a little more time.  This is also good for the photographer who can  get tired toward the end of the day.

When it comes to the older children, these issues are not so much the case.

Scheduling may be by homeroom or a specific class i.e. gym.

Some schools will take turns each year among the teachers, for example, all of the science classes throughout the day will have picture day so this year the four science teachers will bring all of the students to the photo location.  Next year might be the history classes etc.

How much time for each class?
I have found an adequate amount of time is 30 minutes per approximately 15 students from pre-k to first grade.  30 minutes per approximately 20 students from second grade and up.
As the students go up in age, the pace moves a little quicker.

Add in a couple of buffer time slots for deviations from the schedule. 

This allows the schedule to get back on track if need be.  There are almost always delays or situations that arise to throw off the schedule.  (I don't know how many fire drills and bus drills I've gone through.  It's as if they are planned that way since the whole student body is consumed with picture day anyway).
An example could be for every two time slots add an extra five or ten minutes.

Allow short breaks

It is also important to allow short breaks for the photographers to visit the rest room if need be, have a mental break, drink of water and a quick bite to eat.  (Imagine what it is like to photograph upwards of three hundred children one at a time all in one school day).

Other thoughtsIf there is a special needs class, schedule ample time at the beginning of the day.  Be sure it is quiet and private.  Some picture day locations include the cafeteria.  When children are arriving to school and waiting in the cafeteria before going to class this is NOT a good time for special needs classes.  It is noisy, overstimulating, and not private at all.
If there is enough time for a few buffer zone time slots, I've actually set appointments for the child who might have a hard time with their picture day experience. (This can be for special needs or the child who is just plain intimidated or scared).

The kids remember a lot and each year can be something to look forward to or something to be feared or resented.

A good schedule will go a long way in making picture day a welcomed event.

Choose A Good Location.

In my experience with photographing in schools over the years, I've seen the importance of choosing  a good location.  This can have a profound affect on the success or duress of picture day.  Here are some points to consider.

Location of the location.

Where will it take place in relation to the other areas of the school?  Is there enough room for the camera, cameras as well as all of the students coming and going?

When a class is being photographed, students will be waiting to be photographed and students waiting for the rest to finish.  Are there areas where they can wait without being a distraction to the child being photographed?  If they are all able to be in the one room, the hallways will remain clear and less noisy.

Sometimes a class may arrive a little too early or the current class is still there when they arrive.  Is there enough room?  If not , where will they wait?
 
How is the noise level? 

Children get excited on picture day, no matter what the age.  Chatter is high and they can easily not be aware of the class next to them taking a quiz or listening to their teacher.

Is it safe? 

If on a stage, is there enough room so that no one may fall off?  Are there obstructions or large items that may fall over?  Be careful photographing in a hall or corridor.  I'll never forget the humbling an administrator received when an inspector came in and saw an exit had been blocked by junk piled up for months.

Are there items in the room that can be a distraction, ie. sports equipment, musical instruments, art supplies etc.

If in a gym, cafeteria, or auditorium, will it be used for other groups throughout the day?

A good location will help make picture day a much better experience for all involved.

WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this site is to provide a resource for all parties involved in school photography.

It is not intended to teach photography skills, but to provide an open environment for the photographer, administrator, subject, vendor etc. to have their needs addressed regarding school photography.

The view is to elevate all related areas to a higher standard, so that all expectations may be reached to each party's satisfaction.

I'm looking forward to great dialogue.

I've been photographing for many years covering everything from concerts (infront of and behind the stage), theatre, weddings, conventions, headshots for business, and every area of school photos. Being in business for thirty years has alowed me to be in many problem solving positions.  I've come to know that every side has a good point; we just need to get it all to fit together.

I'd like to hear from every one willing to give their perspective.  I know first hand the potential for complaints and negatives (I've taken somewhere near 50,000 yes, fifty thousand, school portraits). Let's not do that; let's keep a professional standard.

Picture day can be good for the school, staff, students, families, photo crews, vendors and all else involved, without undue cost to any one party in particular.