Behind the Lens: An Interview with a Preschool Director on What Makes School Photos Successful
We sat down with Sarah Bennett, director of Little Palms Preschool on Florida’s Space Coast, to learn what makes school photos meaningful for both students and families. Little Palms serves families throughout Brevard County and nearby Orlando, and is known for its nurturing, play-based approach to early childhood learning.
Those Photo Ladies: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, Sarah! To start, what’s the most important goal you have when it comes to your school’s photos?
Sarah Bennett: For us, school photos are all about capturing each child’s personality and creating a keepsake that families will cherish. We want parents to see their child’s growth over the years, and we want the process to be smooth and fun for the kids.
Tip from Those Photo Ladies: The best preschool portraits happen when kids feel comfortable and seen. We always take a few extra moments to connect with each child , a little conversation or a silly joke goes a long way toward getting those genuine smiles.
Those Photo Ladies: What are some challenges schools face with school photos, and how do you hope a photographer can help?
Sarah Bennett: One big challenge is managing the kids’ energy and making sure they’re comfortable in front of the camera. We hope photographers can make it a relaxed, positive experience so the kids feel confident and smile naturally. Timeliness is also key, we have busy schedules, so efficiency is important.
Tip from Those Photo Ladies: Having a clear photo schedule and communicating it early to teachers helps the day go smoothly. When everyone knows what to expect, it keeps classes moving and kids relaxed , no rushing or confusion.
Those Photo Ladies: How do you decide what type of photos to offer families?
Sarah Bennett: We try to provide options that fit different family needs. Classic portrait packages are important, but we also appreciate unique add-ons like sibling photos or fun backgrounds that feel age-appropriate. It’s about giving families choices without overwhelming them.
Tip from Those Photo Ladies: Simple backgrounds and natural lighting often make the best portraits — especially for little ones. They keep the focus where it belongs: on the child’s bright face and joyful expression.
Those Photo Ladies: What do you think is the importance of documenting this preschool age?
Sarah Bennett: This stage is such a special, fleeting time. The kids are growing and changing so quickly! One year they’re shy and small, and the next they’re full of personality and independence. Photos capture those milestones we might otherwise forget. It’s amazing for parents to look back and see how far their child has come, even in a single year.
Tip from Those Photo Ladies: Preschool photos are truly keepsakes. Even if life feels busy, taking time to order professional prints or framed photos ensures those memories don’t just live on your phone, they become part of your family story.
A Stress-Free Photo Day at Little Palms Preschool
When Those Photo Ladies photographed Little Palms Preschool earlier this spring, the team focused on creating a photo day that was both fun for the kids and easy for teachers to manage.
Before photo day, we sent families a simple prep guide, including outfit suggestions, hair tips, and what to expect, so everyone felt ready. On photo day, we arrived early, set up in a bright corner of the multipurpose room, and greeted each class right on schedule.
Between giggles, silly dances, and “pretend dinosaur” poses, we captured genuine smiles while keeping the day flowing smoothly. Even with a few shy kiddos and a spontaneous snack break, we wrapped up on time and delivered the gallery ahead of schedule.
“Honestly, it was the calmest picture day we’ve ever had,” Sarah laughed afterward. “The kids had fun, the teachers didn’t feel rushed, and parents loved the photos.”
That’s exactly what we aim for, making school photo day memorable, efficient, and full of heart for everyone involved.
Those Photo Ladies: What’s your advice for making school photos run smoothly?
Sarah Bennett: Communication and preparation are everything. Letting families know what to expect, sharing tips for dressing their children, and organizing class schedules in advance all help. And, of course, working with a photographer who is experienced with young children makes a huge difference, they know how to capture genuine smiles quickly!
Tip from Those Photo Ladies: For parents - avoid busy patterns or shirts with big logos on photo day. Soft colors and simple styles photograph beautifully and keep the focus on your child’s face.
Those Photo Ladies: If you could sum up your ideal school photo experience in one sentence, what would it be?
Sarah Bennett: Fun, stress-free, and memorable for every child and family.
Those Photo Ladies: Perfect! Thank you so much for sharing your insight, Sarah. It’s clear that school photos are more than just pictures—they’re treasured memories that families will look back on for years.
About Those Photo Ladies
Those Photo Ladies specialize in school portraits across the Space Coast, Brevard County, and Orlando areas. With years of experience photographing preschools and elementary schools, the team brings a calm, kid-friendly approach to every photo day and making the experience stress-free for staff, enjoyable for children, and memorable for families.
Whether it’s capturing bright smiles or creating efficient systems that keep photo day running on time, Those Photo Ladies are proud to serve schools throughout Central Florida with professional, heartfelt photography that families truly love.