Picture Day is Coming!
Your guide to making school photos feel personal, timeless, and totally frame-worthy.
Hello, south shore montessori school Families!
My name is Jenni McDonough, I’m a South Shore newborn + family photographer. I’m so excited to be able to offer School Photos at SSMS this year. This page will be your go-to spot for information to help you prepare for picture day and access your galleries once they are live.
This page is your dedicated space so you know what to expect and how to view and order your child’s portraits. This will all happen online and a few weeks after you place your order your photos will be delivered to school for you to take home. Scroll down for more important information and FAQs.
picture day at SSMS
Monday, September 29, 2025
How it works
School photos with Jenni with an eye photo are different from the old standard school pics. These fine art school photos are all about highlighting your child's unique personality. I take the time to connect with them, bringing out their smiles, laughter, and a range of expressions—from thoughtful to sweet to silly.
Your next steps
Fill out the form at the bottom of this page to pre-register your child for picture day.
After picture day
A link to the gallery will be sent within 3 weeks of picture day.
Your child will have their own album containing the best 4–8 images (each will be in color and black & white).
Choose a package or order a la carte prints and digital downloads. There’s no obligation to buy.
What to Wear for School Photos
Here’s what I recommend:
Stick with soft, light colors or subtle prints.
Neutrals photograph beautifully and let your child’s features take the lead. Bonus tip: choose a color that brings out their eyes — it makes such a difference!
Think texture, not just color.
Details like ruffles, denim, soft knits, or a sweet pair of suspenders can add just enough interest without distracting from their sweet face.
Add something fun if it feels like them.
A tiny bow, a little barrette, a favorite headband… these pieces can add personality without overpowering the moment.
What to avoid
(Not because it’s wrong — just because it can distract or distort on camera.)
Super dark colors like black, navy, or charcoal
Ultra-bright neons
Tiny stripes or small checkered prints (they can look funky in photos)
A gentle reminder:
These photos are for you.
Let your child feel good in what they wear. If they’re not a dress girl, skip the dress. If button-ups make your son itchy and annoyed, don’t force it. A comfy, clean tee in a solid color works just fine.
The best school photos don’t come from dressing up.
They come from your kid feeling like themselves — relaxed, seen, and loved.
Model Release Form for School Photos
Hi there! I’m so excited to capture your child during Photo Week. This quick form gives me permission to photograph your child and (if you’re comfortable) share a few of the sweet moments in my portfolio or social media. Names are never shared.
This should only take a minute. Thanks for being part of it!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Soft, light colors or simple patterns photograph best. Avoid neons, busy stripes, or dark solids like black/navy. Let your child wear something they feel good in — this is about capturing them, not perfection.
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Unfortunately, there are no formal make-up days scheduled so please try to be if possible!
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Yes! You’ll receive a private online gallery where you can view and order your favorites.
Please note: Print orders cannot be placed after the gallery expires.
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Nope! There’s no obligation to purchase — but you will have the option to order digital files and prints directly from your gallery.
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I’ll edit and upload your child’s photos to a private online gallery, and you’ll receive the link via email within 3 weeks.
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Because each print and digital order is unique and personalized, we are unable to offer refunds. Since all sales are final, please triple check your shopping cart before placing your order. We appreciate your understanding!
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Nope! One of the things that makes our photo experience unique is that you don’t need to order anything ahead of time.
Instead of prepaying blindly and crossing your fingers, you’ll get a private online gallery after Picture Day where you can view all your child’s images — including multiple poses to choose from. You only purchase the ones you absolutely love.
That means no pressure, no guesswork, and no wasted prints. Just real smiles, real choices, and photos that feel like them.
Galleries are typically delivered within 2 to 3 weeks after Photo Day. You’ll get an email with your direct link as soon as it’s ready.