7 Easy Hairstyles for Picture Day (2025)

Let’s face it: mornings can be hectic, and kids often have their own ideas about what they want to wear or how their hair should look. These styles are designed to be fuss-free, suitable for all hair types, and budget-conscious. Plus, they’re timeless—meaning your child will look fabulous in their school photos now and for years to come!

Ready to discover these fun, practical hairstyles? Let’s dive in and make picture day less stressful and a lot more fun!

1. Classic High Ponytail with a Twist

A high ponytail is a go-to hairstyle that’s both functional and stylish. It keeps hair neatly out of your child’s face while giving a polished look that works for any hair texture—from silky straight to voluminous curls. The “twist” here adds a touch of creativity without complicating the process.

Start by brushing the hair thoroughly to remove any tangles. Gather the hair up high on the crown and secure it with a hair tie. To make this ponytail stand out, take a small section of hair from the ponytail and wrap it around the elastic band, pinning the end underneath. This little detail instantly transforms a simple ponytail into a chic hairstyle perfect for picture day.

You can also incorporate a small braid into the ponytail or add a cute scrunchie or bow that matches your child’s outfit or school colors. This adds personality and makes the style photo-ready. The high ponytail with a twist is especially great for active kids, as it keeps hair under control and out of the way during school activities.

2. Soft Waves with a Side Part

Soft waves bring volume and dimension to the hair, creating a natural, effortlessly beautiful look. This style is perfect for kids who want something a bit more relaxed yet still polished. The side part adds an element of sophistication and helps frame the face nicely in photographs.

If you’re short on time, heatless waves are your friend. Braiding damp hair overnight or twisting sections before bed gives soft, loose waves by morning without any heat damage. If you prefer to use heat, a flat iron can quickly create gentle waves in just a few minutes.

This hairstyle works well for medium to long hair and suits many hair types. It’s an excellent choice for older kids and teens who want a slightly grown-up style that still feels playful. Pair this look with a cute hair clip or a simple headband to keep hair tidy and enhance the overall appearance.

3. Half-Up Bow Bun

For a hairstyle that is both playful and elegant, the half-up bow bun is an excellent option. It’s especially great for medium to long hair lengths and creates a look that’s both youthful and stylish.

To create this, section off the top half of the hair and form a loose bun shaped like a bow at the back of the head. The bow bun not only looks adorable but also keeps hair from falling into the face, which is perfect for school photo day. It’s an easy way to add volume and visual interest without needing complicated tools or skills.

The half-up style means your child’s hair remains mostly down, which is comfortable and natural. Adding small accessories like pearl pins or colorful barrettes can enhance the charm, making it a true standout hairstyle for pictures.

 

4. Sleek Low Bun with Middle Part

The sleek low bun is a classic hairstyle that exudes elegance and sophistication. It’s perfect for picture day when you want a timeless look that keeps hair neat and frizz-free.

Begin by creating a clean middle part and smoothing the hair back into a low bun at the nape of the neck. Use a small amount of hair gel or serum to tame flyaways and add shine. This style works wonders for those with straight or slightly wavy hair and keeps the focus on your child’s face for the camera.

A sleek low bun is versatile—it pairs well with formal school uniforms and can easily be accessorized with subtle ribbons or pearl clips. Because it’s so polished, this look is perfect for parents seeking a neat, fuss-free hairstyle that lasts all day.

5. Double Dutch Braids

Double Dutch braids are not just trendy—they’re practical and perfect for keeping hair secure and neat throughout the school day. These braids start at the scalp and weave backward, creating a beautiful and tight look that’s great for active kids.

Braiding hair in this style prevents tangling and holds up well even during recess or gym class, which makes it ideal for picture day. The braids frame the face nicely, offering a charming and youthful appearance in photos.

This hairstyle works best on medium to long hair and suits various hair types. Once mastered, it’s a quick style to do and can be enhanced with small decorative elastics or subtle glitter sprays for a fun touch.

6. Top Knot with a Colorful Scrunchie

When time is tight, the top knot saves the day. This hairstyle is simple, fast, and super cute, especially when paired with a bright scrunchie or ribbon that adds a pop of color.

The top knot pulls hair off the neck and face, giving a fresh look while controlling any flyaways. It’s particularly suitable for second-day hair or when your child is having a busy morning and needs something quick but stylish.

Scrunchies come in endless patterns and textures, so pick one that complements the outfit or school colors to make the style even more personalized. This no-fuss hairstyle is a winner for parents looking for quick solutions without compromising on style.

7. Crown Braid Around the Head

For a look that’s both regal and stunning, the crown braid around the head stands out beautifully in photos. This hairstyle involves braiding hair in a circular pattern around the scalp, mimicking a crown.

The crown braid is perfect for medium to long hair and provides an elegant yet youthful vibe. It keeps hair completely off the face, ideal for kids who want to look polished and put-together for picture day.

While it may seem complicated, once you get the hang of it, the crown braid can be done fairly quickly. It also holds well throughout the day, ensuring your child looks flawless from the first snap to the last.

Conclusion

Picture day is a special occasion, and finding the right hairstyle can make all the difference—not just for photos, but for your child’s confidence and comfort throughout the day. These 7 easy hairstyles for picture day are designed to be accessible, practical, and charming for all hair types and ages.

From the classic high ponytail with a twist to the elegant crown braid, each style offers a unique way to express personality while staying neat and photo-ready. The best part? None of these hairstyles require hours in front of a mirror or expensive salon visits, making them budget-friendly and perfect for busy families.