10 Kid-Approved Hairstyles for Picture Day

Picture day is a special event for kids and parents alike, a chance to capture memories that last a lifetime. Choosing the right hairstyle is key to ensuring your child feels confident and comfortable in front of the camera. That’s why we’ve curated these 10 kid-approved hairstyles for picture day that are both practical and picture-perfect.

The hairstyles in this list cater to various hair types and lengths, from straight and fine to curly and textured. Each style is designed to keep hair neat and in place throughout the day, so your child’s smile can truly shine.

With these easy-to-do hairstyles, you can avoid last-minute stress and instead focus on making picture day a fun and memorable experience for your little one.

1. Why the Right Hairstyle Matters on Picture Day

Choosing the right hairstyle on picture day is about more than just looks; it’s about helping your child feel their best. When kids feel comfortable, it shows in their expressions, making for more genuine and joyful photos.

A hairstyle that stays neat through the day ensures the focus stays on your child’s face, not on flyaways or awkward tangles. The right style also respects your child’s personality and hair type, creating a look that feels natural yet polished.

Balancing charm with manageability is essential. These kid-approved hairstyles for picture day are designed to be both adorable and functional, making sure your child looks great without fuss or discomfort.

2. Prepping Kids’ Hair for Picture Perfect Results

Preparation is key to flawless picture day hairstyles. Begin with a gentle shampoo and conditioner tailored to your child’s hair type to ensure softness and manageability.

Detangling with a wide-tooth comb or brush prevents breakage and makes styling easier. For curly or textured hair, applying a lightweight curl cream or leave-in conditioner helps define curls and reduce frizz.

Using light styling products like mousse or gel ensures hairstyles hold up throughout the day without looking stiff or greasy. This prep routine supports the longevity and neatness of any of the 10 kid-approved hairstyles for picture day on this list.

3. Braided Pigtails with Ribbons (Girls)

Braided pigtails are a timeless, sweet hairstyle perfect for girls on picture day. They work especially well on medium to long hair, keeping strands tidy while adding charm.

To create this style, divide hair into two sections and braid each one. Secure the ends and add colorful ribbons or bows for a playful, photo-ready touch.

This hairstyle stays neat and comfortable all day, allowing your child to focus on enjoying their special day. The added ribbons create visual interest and frame your child’s face beautifully in photos.

4. Slick Side Part (Boys)

A slick side part is a neat, timeless hairstyle perfect for boys on picture day. This style is ideal for short to medium hair and offers a polished, camera-friendly look.

Start by creating a clean side part and use a light gel or mousse to slick hair in place. The product keeps the hair neat without a greasy finish, ensuring it looks fresh for photos.

This classic look suits school rules and personal style alike. It’s easy to maintain throughout the day, so your boy can confidently enjoy picture day without fuss.

5. Twisted Top Bun (Girls)

The twisted top bun offers an elegant yet playful style for girls. It keeps hair off the face, ensuring a clear, radiant shot.

To create this style, gather hair into a high ponytail, twist the length, and wrap it into a bun. Secure with pins and smooth any flyaways for a polished finish.

This style works beautifully on curly, wavy, or straight hair, making it versatile for many hair types. It also stays comfortable for long photo sessions and busy school days.

6. Faux Hawk (Boys)

The faux hawk is trendy but not too wild, perfect for boys who want to look cool while keeping their hair manageable.

Apply mousse or pomade for structure and shape the hair upwards in the center while keeping the sides neat. This style gives a bold yet polished appearance for picture day.

It’s a confident style that stands out in photos without being over the top. The faux hawk balances personality and neatness, making it a top pick among kid-approved hairstyles for picture day.

7. Curly Puff Ponytail (Girls)

The curly puff ponytail embraces natural curls, highlighting your child’s unique texture.

Gather hair into a ponytail and use curl cream to define and hold the curls, adding volume and bounce. This style adds energy and vibrance to picture day photos.

It’s comfortable and keeps curls intact without flattening them. The ponytail also frames the face nicely, capturing your child’s lively personality.

8. Brushed-Up Quiff (Boys)

The brushed-up quiff is a classic school photo style that adds volume and sophistication to boys’ hair.

Use a blow dryer and brush to lift hair at the front, then apply hairspray for hold. The quiff keeps hair off the forehead and adds height, making it perfect for portrait photos.

This hairstyle stays fresh and in place throughout the day, allowing your child to focus on smiling without hair distractions.

9. Half-Up Bow Bun (Girls)

The half-up bow bun is a creative and elegant look for girls, forming a bow shape with their own hair.

To create it, pull half of the hair into a ponytail, split it into two loops like a bow, and secure in place. The remaining hair flows freely, adding softness to the look.

This style is visually striking and holds well, perfect for memorable school photos. It also stays comfortable and keeps hair away from the face.

10. Mini Braids or Twists (Unisex)

Mini braids or twists are perfect for textured hair and work well for both boys and girls.

They offer a protective style that keeps hair tidy and intact all day, ideal for active kids during picture day.

These small, neat sections add detail and style without requiring extensive prep. They’re practical, comfortable, and picture-ready.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hairstyle can make picture day a stress-free and enjoyable event for your child. These 10 kid-approved hairstyles for picture day offer a range of options that combine style, comfort, and longevity.

From classic braids to trendy faux hawks, each hairstyle helps your child shine in front of the camera. With simple prep and the right styling products, these looks will last all day and create beautiful memories.

By selecting a hairstyle that suits your child’s personality and hair type, you’re ensuring that their smile is the star of every photo.

FAQs

Q1: How early should I do the hairstyle before school photos? 

Styling hair right before leaving for school helps keep the look fresh and intact. Ideally, finish the hairstyle 15-30 minutes before heading out to prevent flattening or frizz.

Q2: What hairstyles work best for curly hair? 

Styles like the curly puff ponytail, mini braids or twists, and twisted top bun embrace and define curls, keeping them neat and vibrant for photos.

Q3: Are these styles suitable for school rules? 

Yes, all these hairstyles are neat, age-appropriate, and keep hair away from the face, aligning well with most school policies.

Q4: What if my child dislikes hair styling? 

Opt for simple and quick styles like the slick side part or braided pigtails. Practicing the style a day before can make the process smoother and less stressful.

Q5: Can these hairstyles be done with minimal tools? 

Absolutely. Most require only basic tools like combs, hair ties, clips, and light styling products, making them easy for parents and kids to manage.