Modern. Genuine. Fun. Where Amazing Photos for Amazing Kids are Only a SMILE Away.
Our Story.
We’re in business to give you the option we didn’t have. An option to have a seamless portrait day experience. We are your solution to the picture day problem.
Smile School Portraits was created in 2019 by a mom of 3 who was disappointed in the pictures that were coming home from her then four year old preschooler. The problem was that there wasn’t any options to choose from - so she decided to do something about it!
She believed, “Every child deserves an image that reflects exactly who they are. If that’s not happening, then let’s change that.” Here we are 3 years later, and we believe we’re living up to that expectation.
You as a business deserve better. The families you serve deserve better. Our kids deserve better. Let’s work together to make it happen. Your school photo day can be amazing in more ways that just great portraits. It can be the seamless day you have always wanted. Let’s make your dreams come true also.
Melissa Soto
Founder & Lead Photographer, Smile School Portraits
Why Work With Us.
We are a mom-owned business and live right here in the Twin Cities Metro Area with school aged children of our own. Being local to the Twin Cities community allows us to be available to you when you need us, how you need us.
We value your relationship and the needs of our school administrators come first. Your communication won’t get lost in the shuffle because we only take on a number of select schools in our area. Your school picture day experience with us is top-notch, and the service we provide you is personal and superior to any other.
As a mom, I get kids! And as a business owner, I understand how valuable your time, energy, and staff is. You’ll get to sit back and relax as we handle photo day for you.
Photo by Five Pines Design Co.
What Are Fine Art School Portraits?
Smile School Portraits are a modern approach to school photos. We all remember those school photos from our childhood — cheesy backgrounds, stiffly posed, with forced smiles. Fine Art School Portraits are a fresh take on school photography. Photos are classic with a black background and a simple set up like the one pictured here. We encourage your students to be themselves. The results are genuine, timeless portraits that are far from the traditional photos we have become accustomed to with bright flashes and unflattering, busy backgrounds.
We provide a light and fun experience for your students and take pride in providing an environment where the kids can relax and be themselves, naturally.
We Serve Everyone.
We serve preschools, early childhood centers, daycares, K-12, Montessori, private, and homeschool groups. We work with directors, teachers, administrative staff, parents, and PTA members or anyone else you choose to ensure the best for your school picture day. We can accommodate any size of schools, and have worked with children of all ages and developmental stages.
“Every child deserves an image that reflects exactly who they are. If that’s not happening, then let’s change that.”
— Melissa Soto, Founder & Lead Photographer of Smile School Portraits
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