Chicago
Modern. Timeless. Authentic.
Transform your school's picture day with modern school photography that captures authentic expressions, not forced smiles. At Michele Taylor Photography, we specialize in bringing out your child's true personality using simple, elegant backgrounds that let their unique spirit shine.
Say Goodbye to Traditional School Portraits
Gone are the days of stiff poses and fake, outdated backgrounds. Our approach to school photography is fresh, modern, and child-focused. We believe that a photograph should capture a moment, a personality, and an authentic smile—not just a generic school photo.
Our portraits are designed to be timeless, showcasing each child’s individuality with clean, simple backgrounds that enhance rather than distract. This approach ensures that the focus remains on what matters most: your child’s genuine expression.
Authentic expressions. Real smiles.
What sets Michele Taylor Photography apart? It's our ability to connect with kids, making them feel comfortable in front of the camera. We create a relaxed environment where children can be themselves, resulting in photos that are real, joyful, and unique. Our team is skilled at drawing out genuine expressions, whether it's a sweet smile, a thoughtful gaze, or a burst of laughter.
Photography That Highlights
Your Child’s unique Personality
We understand that each child is different, and we take the time to capture their individuality. From the shy and reserved to the outgoing and bubbly, we work with every personality to create a portrait that feels authentic and true. Our focus on natural expressions means that your school portraits will never feel generic— they’ll feel personal.
A Simple, Streamlined Process for Schools and Parents
We know that school photography can feel overwhelming for administrators, teachers, and parents alike. That’s why we’ve developed a streamlined process that makes picture day a breeze.
How It Works
Easy Scheduling
We work with schools to find a convenient day and time that works for everyone.
Efficient Picture Day
Our team is experienced and professional, ensuring each session runs smoothly and quickly without compromising on quality.
Online Galleries
No more order forms and payment envelopes! Parents receive a private online gallery to view and order photos at their convenience, making the entire process hassle-free.
Flexible Ordering Options
Parents can choose from a variety of packages and print options to suit their needs, with easy online ordering.
Why Choose Michele Taylor Photography
Modern & Fresh approach
Say goodbye to cookie-cutter photos and hello to portraits that truly capture your child's personality.
Authentic Expressions
Michele is an expert at making kids feel comfortable, resulting in genuine smiles and expressions.
Simple Process
From scheduling to ordering, we make the entire experience effortless for schools and parents.
Exceptional Quality
We use top-of-line equipment and professional print labs to deliver stunning, high-quality portraits that families will cherish for a lifetime.
Ready to transform your school's Picture day?
Contact Michele Taylor Photography today to learn more about our modern school photography services in Chicago. Let’s work together to create a picture day experience that you, parents and kids will all love!
Chicago School Photography: Your Questions Answered
What makes your school portraits different from the big national companies?
The short answer: everything. The big national companies photograph hundreds of children per day with a one-size-fits-all approach, assembly-line speed, and backgrounds that look nothing like real life. We bring a boutique studio experience to your school, taking the time with each child to capture a genuine, authentic portrait in clean and classic light. The difference is visible the moment you see the images. And it will be me that shows up on picture day, not a national companies latest new hire.
How can I suggest Michele Taylor Photography to my child's school?
Reach out to us through the contact page and let us know your child's school name and location. We will put together information that your school administrator can review and take it from there. It is a simple process and we handle all the outreach on our end once you make the introduction.
How do you handle younger children who are nervous or shy?
With patience, warmth, and 16 years of experience working with children of every age and temperament. We never rush a child through their portrait. We take the time to help each student feel comfortable before we ever pick up the camera. The result is authentic expressions that actually look like the child, not a forced smile that disappears the second the session is over. There are some kids that despite our best efforts just won't warm up. We try our best but we don't ever force a child to participate.
What does it cost?
There is no cost for the school. In fact, typically I donate 10% of profits, from orders placed during the ordering window, to the school or a charity of your choice. Or, alternatively I can provide marketing and branding images for your school.
What is your style for school portraits?
Clean, classic, and timeless. Every portrait is beautifully lit with simple, neutral backgrounds that keep the focus entirely on the child. No artificial backdrops, no distracting props, no heavily filtered edits. Just honest, well-crafted portraits that families are genuinely proud to display and order.
How far in advance should we book school photo day?
The earlier the better, especially for fall photo days which tend to book up over the summer. We recommend reaching out at least two to three months before your preferred photo day date to ensure availability and allow enough time for logistics and parent communication planning. But reach out regardless - we may have room on our schedule!
What types of schools do you work with?
We work primarily with daycares and preschools but absolutely welcome inquiries from elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools as well. If you are looking for a boutique alternative to the large national school photography companies, or are just ready to make a change, we would love to connect and talk through what a partnership could look like for your school community.
Do you handle the ordering process for families?
Yes, and it could not be simpler. Every child is photographed, siblings included, and after photo day each family receives access to a private online gallery. They browse their images at their own pace and order only what they love. There is no minimum order, no requirement to purchase, and no pre-pay package envelope for your staff to collect. Families are never pressured. They simply order if and when they want to.
What Experience Do You Have?
My experience comes from 15+ years of family and newborn photography. I love working with children and capturing their personalities...candid shots are always my favorites, followed by the soulful gaze. I will never force a child to smile, but instead will try to coax their personality out by chatting with them as I shoot. A great photo doesn't always mean a smile but by asking them questions....and acting like a goof... will usually elicit at least one smile, even from the shyest of kids.
What areas do you service?
I have a portrait studio on the border of Lakeview and Northcenter and have been part of the Chicago community for more than 15 years. I continue to grow and add schools in Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Roscoe Village, Northcenter, Old Irving Park, Logan Square, Lincoln Square, Ravenswood, Bucktown, Wicker Park, West Town, West Loop, Downtown, Gold Coast, Sauganash and the surrounding suburbs!
