15 Fun Hairstyles for Picture Day
That’s why I’ve gathered 15 fun hairstyles that are sure to brighten picture day for everyone involved. These styles are beginner-friendly, budget-conscious, and, best of all, kid-approved! From classic ponytails to playful braids and charming buns, you’ll find ideas that keep hair neat and adorable while making your little one feel confident in front of the camera. Let’s dive in!
1. Classic High Ponytail
There’s a reason the classic high ponytail never goes out of style—it’s simple, practical, and looks effortlessly chic. Perfect for kids with medium to long hair, this hairstyle keeps hair off the face, letting those bright smiles shine in photos. Plus, it’s a breeze to customize! Add a colorful scrunchie or ribbon to make it pop.
To get the best ponytail, gather the hair high on the crown and secure it firmly. For extra volume, tease the hair gently at the roots before pulling it back. This style holds up well throughout a busy day, whether your child is in school or at a photo studio. And since it’s quick to do, it’s perfect for mornings when time is tight but you still want a polished look.
The high ponytail also pairs wonderfully with accessories, like a fun bow or sparkling clips, which can add a playful touch without overwhelming the hairstyle. It’s a winning choice for picture day, combining neatness with a hint of personality.
2. Messy Bun with Accessories
Sometimes, the messier the better—especially when it comes to buns! A messy bun is casual, comfy, and totally cute. It works well for all hair types, whether thick, thin, curly, or straight. The key is to aim for effortless charm rather than perfection.
To create this look, loosely gather the hair into a bun, letting some strands fall naturally around the face. This relaxed vibe looks fresh and youthful in pictures, giving a bit of carefree spirit. Secure the bun with a few bobby pins, but don’t fuss too much—imperfections add to the style’s appeal.
Accessories like cute barrettes, scrunchies, or flower pins take the messy bun from simple to special. They bring in color and whimsy, which really shines in photos. Plus, this style is easy to refresh during the day if needed, making it a practical choice for busy families.
3. Double French Braids
French braids are timeless, and doubling them makes for a stunning and practical hairstyle for picture day. Double French braids keep hair neatly in place and look fantastic on kids with long or medium hair.
The beauty of this style is how versatile it is. Braids frame the face beautifully and won’t get in the way during playtime or class. For parents new to braiding, it may take a little practice, but once you master the technique, you’ll love how polished and cute this look is.
Adding small ribbons or beads at the ends can jazz up the style without overwhelming it. It’s a classic yet playful option that highlights your child’s natural beauty and keeps their hair tidy throughout the day.
4. Half-Up Half-Down Twist
The half-up half-down twist strikes the perfect balance between casual and elegant. This hairstyle is excellent for kids who want their hair partially down but still want it out of their eyes.
To achieve this look, take small sections from each side, twist them back, and pin them at the back of the head. It adds a soft, romantic touch without much effort. This style works with straight, wavy, or curly hair, making it versatile for all hair textures.
You can enhance this look with tiny floral pins or sparkly clips, which catch the light beautifully in photos. It’s a subtle way to add charm while keeping hair manageable, perfect for picture day when you want everything just right.
5. Side Swept Curls
Soft curls always photograph beautifully, adding volume and dimension to hair. Side-swept curls, in particular, bring a glamorous yet approachable vibe—perfect for picture day.
You don’t need heat tools to get curls! Heatless methods like braiding damp hair overnight or using soft rollers are gentle and easy, protecting kids’ delicate strands. Sweep the curls over one shoulder and secure lightly with pins if needed.
This hairstyle frames the face delicately, highlighting features naturally. It’s a wonderful choice if you want your child to feel a bit fancy while keeping things comfortable and age-appropriate.
6. Fishtail Braid
For something a little more intricate but still manageable, the fishtail braid is a beautiful option. It looks complex but is actually beginner-friendly once you get the hang of it.
A fishtail braid gives hair a textured, woven effect that’s both trendy and timeless. This braid lies flat, making it great for picture day as it keeps hair tidy and stylish without bulk.
To keep the braid neat, try smoothing hair with a light leave-in conditioner or hair serum before braiding. Adding a small ribbon or decorative band at the end adds a pop of color and personality.
7. Low Bun with Twists
Low buns are classic and elegant, and twisting sections before pinning them adds a lovely detail that feels extra special. This hairstyle works best on medium-length hair and is great for kids who want something polished but not too formal.
Start by twisting small front sections back and securing them with pins, then gather the rest of the hair into a low bun at the nape of the neck. This gives dimension and texture, making the style visually interesting in photos.
Keeping the hair smooth with a bit of light styling cream prevents flyaways and frizz, ensuring your child looks neat without looking stiff or overly styled.
8. Top Knot with a Bow
The top knot is fun, trendy, and practical—plus, it keeps hair off the face all day long. Adding a bow makes this simple style instantly adorable and perfect for picture day.
To make a top knot, gather the hair at the crown and twist it into a bun secured with an elastic. Use bobby pins if needed to hold it in place. Then, tie a bright or patterned bow around the base for that extra flair.
This hairstyle is great for all hair textures and lengths that can be pulled up, and the bow lets kids express their style and personality, making the photos pop with charm.
9. Bubble Ponytail
Bubble ponytails are playful and creative—a fantastic way to make a simple ponytail look exciting. This style works best on long hair but can be adapted for medium lengths.
To create it, secure a high ponytail, then add hair ties down the length of the ponytail at regular intervals, gently pulling the sections between ties to create “bubbles.” This look is eye-catching and unique, perfect for picture day photos that stand out.
The bubble ponytail adds fun dimension and keeps hair neat, which parents and kids both appreciate. Plus, it’s a style that invites smiles and compliments!
10. Braided Crown
A braided crown is regal and charming, creating a lovely halo effect around the head. It’s an ideal style for special occasions like picture day, giving a polished, fairy-tale look.
To make a braided crown, start by braiding hair on one side of the head and wrapping it across the forehead, pinning as you go. This style keeps hair away from the face while showcasing beautiful braid details.
Adding delicate flower pins or small beads along the braid enhances its magical feel without overwhelming the hairstyle. It’s a perfect way to make your child feel like royalty during their photo session.
11. Double Buns (Space Buns)
Double buns, aka space buns, are cute, quirky, and youthful—a playful choice that’s perfect for kids who like to have fun with their hairstyles.
To do this, part the hair down the middle and create two high buns, securing them with elastics and pins. You can make them neat or a bit messy, depending on the desired look.
This style works for all hair textures and lengths that can be gathered up. It’s an easy way to add character and joy to picture day, giving your child a confident, bold style that photographs beautifully.
12. Loose Waves with Headband
Loose waves are soft and natural, adding subtle volume and movement to hair. Pairing them with a stylish headband is a simple way to add a bit of sophistication and flair.
You can create waves without heat by twisting damp hair or using braids overnight. Adding a headband—whether classic, sparkly, or patterned—frames the face and adds a touch of elegance.
This combination is versatile and works well for both casual and more formal picture day outfits. Plus, it’s comfortable and kid-friendly!
13. Twisted Pigtails
Twisted pigtails give a fresh twist to the classic pigtail style. This look is fun, easy, and keeps hair secure all day long.
Simply part hair down the middle, twist small sections from the front, and then secure them into pigtails. You can add colorful bands or clips to amp up the cuteness factor.
This hairstyle balances playfulness with neatness, making it a fantastic choice for energetic kids on picture day.
14. Side Ponytail with Ribbon
The side ponytail is sweet, simple, and fast—a great hairstyle when mornings are hectic but you want a polished look.
Gather hair to one side and secure it with an elastic, then add a bright ribbon tied into a bow for a charming finish. The ribbon adds personality and makes the ponytail stand out in photos.
This look works well for all hair types and lengths that can be pulled to the side, making it a go-to for a quick, adorable picture day style.
15. Slicked-Back Hair with Sparkly Clips
For a modern, polished look, slicked-back hair with sparkly clips offers a bit of glam without being too formal.
Using a light gel or mousse, smooth hair back away from the face, then secure it with stylish clips—think rhinestones, pearls, or fun shapes. This style highlights facial features and adds a subtle shine to pictures.
It’s perfect for kids who want something a little different yet age-appropriate, balancing sleekness with fun accessories.
Conclusion
Picture day is about capturing your child’s unique personality, and the right hairstyle can make all the difference. Whether you go for a classic high ponytail, playful bubble ponytail, or elegant braided crown, these 15 fun hairstyles offer something for every child and parent. The best part? They’re all beginner-friendly, budget-conscious, and sure to bring smiles to your morning routine.
Try out these styles and see which ones become your family favorites! And remember—confidence is the most adorable accessory your child can wear. Here’s to stress-free picture days filled with laughter and lasting memories!
