Metro Detroit School Photographer
A Boutique School Photography Experience
Looking to elevate your school portraits beyond the cookie-cutter basics?
I offer boutique fine art school photography for schools throughout Metro Detroit, including New Hudson and South Lyon. My goal is to create a personal, memorable experience for every school and family I work with.
I specialize in modern, playful, and timeless portraits that capture each child's true personality. You won't find forced smiles or stiff poses here. Instead, I create the space for kids to simply be themselves, joyful, curious, silly, and real. The result: genuine, beautifully crafted portraits that families will treasure for years to come.
A Beautiful Alternative to Traditional School Photos
How It Works
01.
Connect & Schedule
Contact me below to schedule picture day or to learn more about school portraits for preschools and daycares.
02.
Stress-free Photo Sessions
I arrive early to set up, and teachers bring a few kids at a time for photos. Silly games and smiles included!
03.
Private Gallery
Families order digital or print packages online. Print orders are delivered to the school within 4-5 weeks.
04.
Prints & Digitals Delivered
I hand deliver all print packages to the school for easy pickup, and digital files are sent instantly via email.
Why Schools Choose SJ Photography
Schools throughout Metro Detroit, New Hudson, and South Lyon choose SJ Photography because the experience is simple for staff and meaningful for families.
Personal planning and preparation.
Before picture day, I’ll meet with you to walk through every detail. From selecting the best portrait location to creating a clear schedule, so the day runs smoothly and stress-free for your staff.
Custom parent information page.
Each school receives a personalized prep and ordering webpage created specifically for your families. These pages include everything parents need to know before and after picture day, including how to prepare their child, access their gallery, and place an order.
No money collection for the school.
Every student is photographed, and parents only purchase the images they love after viewing their child’s portraits online.
Modern online ordering system.
SJ Photography uses a secure online proofing and ordering system that is simple for families and eliminates paper order forms and printed proofs, creating a more modern and eco-friendly experience.
What Makes These Portraits Different?
No cheesy backdrops or awkward poses
Just natural light, neutral backgrounds, and genuine expressions.
Free for Schools
There's no cost to participate. I provide everything needed for picture day, from setup to delivery. All profit is generated from families' orders.
Affordable Packages for Families
Families can choose from a variety of affordable digital and print options to fit their needs. All orders are placed easily online through a private gallery.
Complimentary Staff Portraits
Each school session includes complimentary staff portraits and a group photo to celebrate the team that makes your school so special.
Meet the photographer!
I'm not your average school photographer! I don’t ask kids to say “cheese” or force them into awkward poses. Instead, we play games, make silly noises, and create a relaxed environment where children feel comfortable being themselves. Whether a child is shy, grumpy, or extra silly, I focus on capturing genuine expressions and true personalities.
Is your preschool or daycare searching for a photographer who truly connects with young children? I specialize in preschool photography and know just how to make little ones feel comfortable and happy in front of the camera.
What does “fine art” school photography mean?
Fine art school portraits are simple, timeless images taken with natural light and a neutral backdrop. They focus on authentic expressions - no forced smiles or awkward poses. My goal is to capture each child’s true personality in a beautiful, honest way.
How much does it cost for the school?
Nothing at all! This is a completely free service. I provide all equipment, setup, and organization.
What color backdrops do you offer?
When it comes to backdrops, I keep it simple. Solid black or solid cream, no lasers, no bookshelves, no props, no distractions. The school selects the color, and the focus stays right where it belongs: on the child.
For schools that prefer a natural setting, outdoor portraits are also available, depending on location.
Do you offer make-up days?
I understand that occasionally, students or staff may be unavailable on the scheduled picture day due to illness, travel, or other conflicts.
When needed, a placeholder make-up day is reserved approximately one week after the original photo day to photograph anyone who was unable to participate, so that no one is left out!
What are the photo packages and prices for families?
Families can choose from several affordable print and digital packages, starting at a low price point. All galleries are delivered online, and orders are placed directly through their gallery. There’s no pressure to purchase, only if they love the images!
To receive detailed pricing and scheduling information, please complete the short inquiry form below.
After submitting, I’ll send you a link to my School Lounge, a private page for school administrators that includes the full portrait process, package options, and planning details.
How are the photos delivered?
Families are linked safe, online ordering galleries. Galleries are set up according to grade, classroom, homeroom, advisory, or whatever grouping makes sense for the school or group. Digital images are sent via email immediately after purchase.
Print packages are delivered to me, then dropped off at the school for easy pickup. No sorting or extra work for staff.
What if a child is shy or doesn’t smile?
That’s okay - there’s no pressure to perform. I take time with each child, chatting, joking, and wait for natural expressions. Sometimes a quiet gaze is just as meaningful as a grin. My goal is to make each child feel safe and seen, just as they are.
Can siblings be photographed together?
Yes! I offer optional sibling portraits when time and space allow. These can be arranged in advance, and a separate gallery will be provided for sibling images.
What time of year do these photo shoots take place?
I work with each individual school to schedule shoots any time during the academic year.
What does the school need to do?
I provide everything needed for picture day and organize the flow of sessions. Schools receive clear instructions ahead of time so the process runs smoothly. So, there is very little the school needs to do.
Do you provide extras like class photos or staff portraits?
Class composites or group photos can be included, and I also provide complimentary staff portraits for your school.
