FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS - FOR SCHOOLS

Smile School Portraits is a fine art school photography service offered by Melissa Soto Photography. We offer this boutique experience that schools and families LOVE! Here are some of the frequently asked questions we have received from schools.

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. We encourage each child 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.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FOR PHOTO DAY?

We set up inside near a large window and we use minimal equipment. I spend 2-3 minutes with each child, capturing a variety of poses. I ask the children questions and engage with them to capture their true personality. I never force them to smile, instead I encourage them to be themselves.

DO YOU TAKE CLASS PHOTOS?

We can take a group photo of all students in their classroom or I can offer a composite for each classroom or daycare group.

DO YOU OFFER STAFF PHOTOS?

We sure do! We take staff portraits and gift them to you with a complimentary digital image package. We can’t thank you enough for everything you do in the classroom and that’s why it’s important to give back to you! Staff will be able to use their photos as you wish on your webpage, social media, or personal use.

DO YOU PHOTOGRAPH SIBLINGS?

Siblings of all ages are welcome to come in to take individual photos or photos with their sibling that attends your school or childcare center. Parents may bring in younger or older siblings per the policy you have in place during the pandemic.

WHAT IS THE TURN AROUND TIME?

The galleries are ready within 1-2 weeks (depending on how large your school is). Parents will have 7-10 day ordering window to view and purchase prints and products. Digital images are delivered within 24 hours and prints are delivered within 2-3 weeks after the ordering window closes to avoid individual shipping costs and delivery to your school. Class composites can take a bit longer and will be shipped to the school upon completion.

ARE THESE IMAGES EXPENSIVE?

Nope! Our prices are very affordable and rival those from national chains - yet the quality is unmatched! There is no cost and no obligation to order. There is never any charge to the school for portraits, and families order products and prints directly from a private, online gallery. We offer fine art prints, digital downloads, canvas wraps, and more - a variety for everyone!

WHAT DO WE NEED TO PROVIDE ON PICTURE DAY?

We need a small space that can accommodate a 10x10 area near a window. We ask for a parent volunteer that knows the children or a staff member that can bring the children from their room to the photo area. Parent volunteers that help out receive a discount code to use towards their photos! Having a familiar face helps with the younger ones as they have a someone they feel comfortable around when having their picture taken. If you don’t have the extra help that is no problem! Our team can take care of everything so you don’t need to do a thing!

DO YOU OFFER A SPRING PHOTO DAY?

Yes! We offer both Fall and Spring picture day. Spring allows an opportunity for administrators to introduce our experience to their school and families. Since our photo service is much more personal and unique, we love offering this as an alternative to schools who didn’t know this type of photography service was available. We’re now booking for Spring photo day. Let’s connect to get your photo day scheduled!

WHAT AREAS DO YOU SERVE?

We serve all of the Twin Cities metro area and can work with schools and child care centers in Western Wisconsin and Rochester area. We have been working in our community for over 7 years and look forward to working with you for many more!

Do you have a question you don’t see above? Feel free to reach out and connect!