In the realm of early childhood education, where every moment is a milestone, capturing memories becomes paramount. While parents are often armed with smartphones, there’s an undeniable magic in professional photography. In this post, we’re excited to share a conversation with David Kapper, a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in preschool and daycare photography at Clix. Based in metro Atlanta, David’s company is dedicated to creating lasting memories for families while streamlining the process for childcare centers. He provides a fascinating look into the world of seasonal photoshoots, the challenges of working with little ones, and the innovative ways his company adds value to schools and families. Join us as we explore his insights, the logistics behind picture day, and the value of capturing those precious early years.

Can you tell us a bit about your company and the work that you do?

We are a professional photography company specializing in preschool and daycare photography in the metro Atlanta area, covering locations within an hour of the city and beyond, including the southeastern and western regions. With over 15 years of experience, we are passionate about capturing precious memories for families as their children grow. While smartphones make photography accessible, professional portraits remain a rare and cherished keepsake. We offer both digital and print options, allowing families to share and preserve these moments for a lifetime.

Can you describe your typical schedule and what your busy periods look like?

Our business follows a seasonal rhythm. In the fall, we kick off the school year with individual portraits, followed by holiday-themed photoshoots in November and December, often featuring Santa. Spring brings class photos, and we close out the school year with cap and gown graduation portraits. Summer and winter tend to be quieter for daycare and preschool photography, but we also work with larger schools, private institutions, and senior portraits in our studio. Right now, we are preparing for our spring sessions, featuring fresh backgrounds and props that enhance each season’s theme.

You mentioned that picture day isn’t always a favorite for schools. Can you expand on that?

Over the years, we’ve learned that while schools value picture day, it can disrupt their routine. However, parents expect and appreciate these portraits. To make the process seamless, we bring a well-trained team so school staff can focus on their daily tasks. While we need some assistance—such as helping us identify younger children—we handle the majority of the logistics. Our staff members are thoroughly vetted, fingerprinted, and background-checked, and they genuinely love working with kids, ensuring a fun and smooth experience.

How do you typically organize a picture day at a school?

We arrive early in the morning and wrap up before lunchtime. Once we finish, we restore the space to its original setup. Photos are uploaded within 24 hours—often even sooner—and are securely password-protected for each family. Parents can conveniently order online, with photos delivered directly to their homes, eliminating the need for schools to handle orders and distributions. This streamlined approach is highly appreciated by school administrators.

It sounds like you’ve created a very streamlined process. Are there times during the year when you’re particularly busy?

Yes! Our peak seasons are March-April in the spring and September-October in the fall. We prioritize our returning clients when scheduling and accommodate additional bookings by scaling our team as needed. We have the flexibility to bring in experienced freelance photographers or hire new staff as demand grows. Additionally, we avoid scheduling photo sessions on Mondays, as parents are more likely to forget to dress their children appropriately after the weekend.

What are some ways you help ensure parents are prepared for picture day?

We provide multiple reminders, including stickers for children to wear the night before, posters displayed at the school, and direct communication with parents. Our goal is to ensure children arrive well-dressed and groomed. Scheduling sessions in the morning also helps, as kids tend to be messier after lunch and outdoor playtime. We operate Tuesday through Friday and can accommodate up to three schools per day.

What advice would you give to a center director organizing picture day for the first time?

Two key elements ensure a smooth process:

1. Providing us with a list of students and family email addresses at least three to four days in advance. This allows us to securely share proofs with parents.
2. Displaying posters to remind families of the upcoming picture day. Beyond that, we handle everything, making the experience as stress-free as possible for directors, staff, and families.

Are there any additional services or benefits you offer to schools?

Yes! We provide complimentary staff headshots, which schools can use for classroom displays, websites, or LinkedIn profiles. Staff members are encouraged to wear branded attire and prepare for their portraits. Our goal is to make the process quick, painless, and professional, ensuring they receive images they love.

Do you offer other types of photos, like sibling or group shots?

Absolutely. We coordinate sibling portraits and ask directors to inform us of family connections in advance. Even if children are cousins rather than siblings, we are happy to capture their moments together. Our commitment to quality photography enhances the school’s reputation, helping families feel more connected to their child’s learning environment.

Can you tell us about the yard signs and their success?

We offer celebratory yard signs for preschool graduates, available in multiple styles—some featuring the child’s photo and others showcasing the school’s logo. Initially, we designed these for families to purchase, but many schools now buy them in bulk for their graduates. We handle the design and offer discounts for bulk orders. The popularity of these signs has grown so much that even a center owner at a conference purchased one for their own child’s graduation!

How do you ensure photos align with a center’s brand or aesthetic?

We collaborate closely with each school. For staff headshots, we follow specific wardrobe guidelines. For student portraits, we tailor backdrops and props to match the center’s aesthetic—whether it’s whimsical, elegant, or themed. If a center needs updated facility images for promotional use, we can discuss additional options.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in 15 years?

Photography is more than just capturing smiles—it’s a powerful marketing tool for schools. Parents who love their children’s portraits share them on social media, leave positive reviews, and are more likely to re-enroll. Schools often use our images in brochures, advertisements, and websites, enhancing their brand. When we help directors create a seamless, enjoyable experience, everyone benefits.

For directors in metro Atlanta, partnering with an experienced photography company means less stress and happier families. And for those outside our region? Take inspiration: streamline communication, leverage technology for easy ordering, and never underestimate the power of a well-placed yard sign!

To connect with David or learn more about his services, visit clixnorthatlanta.com or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.