Let’s be real: sometimes, even with the best planning, that first school photo doesn’t go as perfectly as we’d hoped. We’ve all been there. Maybe it was an awkward smile or a last-minute hair mishap that’s forever immortalized in a yearbook we’ve hidden away. Or, you find out this is how your little one posed in their first school pictures:

Either way, that’s where retakes come in.

Preparation is Key

For round two, it’s helpful to prepare ahead. Remind students and parents about retake day. Need a hand? We’ve got a guide for you here.

Get Those Poses Right

Posing makes a big difference in the final photo. Avoid stiff poses by keeping kids comfortable and relaxed. A slight head tilt, natural posture, and hands clasped gently are great starting points. For older students, crossing arms or leaning slightly adds maturity to the shot. Read this blog post to get all the details for

Practice Makes Perfect

A quick practice smile in the mirror before the retake can make a world of difference, and don’t be afraid to run through some common poses photographers will ask you to do. Read our blog post to get some tips and tricks to make posing a breeze

Making the Most of Retakes

Retakes are a chance to get it right - without the stress! A little preparation, relaxed poses, and Skylab Studio’s editing tools ensure that everyone walks away with a photo they’ll love. (Pro tip: Use our Profile Presets to make this school year your most streamlined yet.) So, don’t be afraid to take advantage of the opportunity, and let retakes be the fresh start for perfect portraits.