What to Look for in a School Photographer: 5 Questions You Should Be Asking

Let’s face it — when you’re juggling budgets, building works, and trying to make the Year 6 leavers’ hoodie deadline, organising a school photoshoot probably isn’t top of your to-do list.

But great photography? It does so much more than just tick a box. It helps prospective families connect with your ethos before they’ve even booked a tour. It shows off the warmth of your school culture. And — let’s be honest — it’s a whole lot more engaging than stock photos of suspiciously clean classrooms.

If you’re thinking of updating your school prospectus or website, here are five questions you should be asking before you book a school photographer.

1. Do they understand how schools actually work?

You need someone who gets:

• The rhythm of the school day

• How to be flexible around class schedules and assemblies

• That children aren’t professional models (and nor should they be!)

I’ve worked with over 50 schools across the UK, so I understand the inner workings of a school day better than most. I know that one minute a teacher is outside on playground duty and the next they’re racing off to cover a phonics group. I’m used to adapting to changes in lighting, weather, and location — whether it’s moving from a classroom to the hall, or grabbing a quick outdoor shot before the heavens open.

2. Can they capture natural moments — not just staged smiles?

Modern school marketing isn’t about stiff line-ups. It’s about showing who you really are:

• Children engaged in learning

• Staff interacting with warmth and purpose

• Real-life joy and curiosity in the classroom and playground  

3. Do they know what images schools actually need?

A school website or prospectus isn’t just a photo album. You need:

• Horizontal banner shots for your homepage

• Cropped images for newsletters and social media

• Detail shots (like artwork, uniforms, playgrounds)

• Consistent lighting and editing that reflect your school’s vibe

4. Are they DBS-checked and experienced working with children?

This might seem obvious, but not every photographer is used to working in school settings. You need someone who:

• Is fully DBS-checked

• Understands safeguarding

• Can adapt their approach for different age groups

• Knows when to be invisible — and when to jump in with energy

5. Can they help you tell your school’s story?

The best school photographers don’t just ‘take photos’ — they help you:

• Highlight your school’s unique strengths

• Bring your vision and values to life

• Build a visual identity that reflects your ethos

Ready to show your school at its best?

Choosing the right photographer is more than just finding someone with a camera — it’s about capturing your school in its best light, with warmth, purpose, and professionalism.

If you’d like to chat about how I can help bring your school to life through photos get in touch via the contact form in the main menu or visit my schools page below. 

 I’ll get back to you quicker than the last bell on a Friday afternoon.