A picture is worth a thousand words.”
As social media experts, we know that this saying is SO true. A great photo can make all the difference when telling your district’s story. But have you ever considered hiring a district-wide photographer? Here are three reasons you may want to add one to your communications’ arsenal:
- High-quality photos for social media posts. From #MotivationalMonday posts to showcasing a recent accomplishment, having access to professional photos that tell your story is key.
- Clear and up-to-date images for your school’s website. Your website can be the first impression for prospective families. What image of your district does your website convey? Are the photos on your landing page engaging? Do they showcase your student population accurately? Do they reflect the current season?
- Outstanding images to use in other school communications such as school newsletters and brochures. Have you ever spent time searching for the perfect image to use in a promotional brochure, only to come up empty handed? A district photographer can help you grab those pictures for future use.
Enlisting the help of a photographer isn’t tough.
- Find someone local and interview him/her. Find someone with a good reputation and experience photographing children. Make sure they pass a background check.
- Decide on an hourly rate and schedule. We suggest 3-4 times per year, as well as an invitation to special events. Give them a schedule of sporting events each season and make sure they capture each sport at least once.
- Be sure to tag along to assist. Show your photographer the angles you want shot. Give them information ahead of time such as dimensions used on social media or your website.
- Be mindful of students who may not be photographed.
- Share photos via Google Drive.
- Give open and honest feedback. Include details.
- Keep a list of needed shots. Here is a PDF to help.
- School Spirit
- Classroom learning
- Diversity
- Administration interacting with students
- Students mentoring younger students
- Having fun
- Lunchroom
- Reading/library
- Teachers in action
- The little moments
- Technology
- Phys. Ed
- Art
- Music/concerts
- Sporting events
- Family pics from school events
- Bus drivers
- Support staff
- Recess
- Graduation day
Did we miss any? Feel free to comment below!
A guest post from Heidi Feller, our Chief Inspirational Officer. She is a former teacher and district website/social media coordinator, but now she spends her days inspiring the #SocialSchool4EDU school partners with the encouragement they need to tell their story. In her own words, “Our teachers and students knock their socks off learning and growing each school day and the world needs to know about it!”
