30 Easy Hairstyles for Picture Day
Make picture day a breeze with easy hairstyles for picture day that are adorable, practical, and photo-ready. Whether you’re styling a little girl, a young boy, or a teen with their own flair, the right hairstyle can boost confidence and create a memorable look that stands out in every snapshot.
Picture day only comes around once a year, so it’s no surprise that parents want their kids to look their best without spending hours on styling. The good news? With the right tips and simple styling ideas, you can achieve camera-worthy hair in just minutes. From braids to buns and sleek styles to playful curls, this list has something for every hair length and texture.
Below, you’ll find 30 easy hairstyles for picture day that are quick to create, kid-friendly, and guaranteed to look great in front of the lens. Each one is designed for minimal fuss with maximum cuteness so let’s dive in!
1. Classic Low Ponytail with a Twist
A classic low ponytail is timeless, neat, and ideal for keeping hair in place throughout the day. Add a twist literally by wrapping a strand of hair around the base to hide the elastic and elevate the look.
This style works perfectly for medium to long hair and keeps flyaways to a minimum. Add a decorative clip or bow at the base for a pop of color and style.
Parents love this because it takes less than five minutes but still looks like you’ve put in serious effort. Plus, it pairs beautifully with collared shirts and picture day outfits.
2. Sleek High Ponytail with Hair Wrap
The sleek high ponytail is a go-to for modern, polished looks. Smooth the hair with a bit of gel or mousse, pull it up high, and wrap a strand around the base to cover the elastic.
This style is especially flattering for round or oval faces and works well for both straight and curly textures. The elevation of the ponytail brings the face into focus great for those perfect portrait angles.
Easy hairstyles for picture day don’t have to be boring, and this one proves it. It’s bold, chic, and totally picture-perfect.
3. Double French Braids
Double French braids are cute, secure, and ideal for active kids who don’t want to worry about their hair all day. While this style may take a few more minutes, the long-lasting results are worth it.
This braid style suits all hair types and lengths, and you can embellish the ends with beads or bows for added charm.
It’s not just about looks, double braids also keep the hair from frizzing or flying around, making them a practical yet stylish choice for easy hairstyles for picture day.
4. Half-Up Bow Bun
The half-up bow bun is playful and ideal for younger kids with medium to long hair. Simply section the top half, form two loops, and pin them to resemble a bow.
This whimsical style adds a fun twist and photographs beautifully from multiple angles. You can finish the look with a shiny spray for extra definition.
Bow buns are popular because they blend structure with sweetness, giving you that Pinterest-worthy picture without hours of styling.
5. Braided Headband
For kids with long or medium-length hair, a braided headband adds elegance without much effort. Simply braid a section from behind one ear and pin it across the front like a headband.
It’s a great way to keep hair out of the face while adding texture and visual interest. You can pair it with curls, a ponytail, or even a bun.
Among easy hairstyles for picture day, this one’s ideal for kids who love a slightly fancier look without going over the top.
6. Messy Bun with Floral Clips
The messy bun is a classic, and adding floral clips makes it instantly photo-ready. Gather hair into a bun at the crown and let a few strands fall loosely for that effortless charm.
It’s a fantastic option for curly or wavy hair textures and works well for both casual and slightly dressy outfits.
Add two or three mini floral clips, and you’ve got a hairstyle that’s Instagram-worthy and ideal for picture day.
7. Bubble Ponytail
The bubble ponytail is a trendy and unique option for kids who want something fun. After securing a high ponytail, place small elastics every 2 inches and gently tug each section to form bubbles.
This style adds a playful touch to the typical ponytail and is easy to do with minimal tools. Use glitter ties or color-matching elastics for a uniform look.
This is one of the most eye-catching easy hairstyles for picture day, especially for kids with thick or textured hair.
8. Half-Up Half-Down with Curls
This classic combination balances structured style with flowing locks. Curl the loose sections for soft waves, and secure the upper half with a barrette or bow.
Perfect for both short and long hair, this style allows for movement while keeping the face framed beautifully.
It also works well with accessories and blends well with any outfit, making it a picture day favorite among both parents and kids.
9. Crown Braid
A crown braid wraps around the head like a halo, offering a regal and timeless look. This style takes a bit more effort but stays in place all day and looks fantastic in photos.
You can keep it simple or add small flowers or glitter clips for extra detail. It’s a great choice for themed picture days or fancy dresses.
This is where easy hairstyles for picture day meet elegance and durability perfect for making your child feel like royalty.
10. Side Swept Bangs with Clip
Sometimes, all it takes is a simple styling tweak to create a beautiful look. Sweeping the bangs to one side and pinning them with a decorative clip creates a charming frame for the face.
This hairstyle is especially great for short to medium-length hair and requires zero heat or complex techniques.
Use a rhinestone, pearl, or bow clip to highlight the face and keep the bangs in place during photo time.
11. Mini Space Buns
Mini space buns are fun, edgy, and absolutely adorable. Simply part the hair down the middle and twist each section into small buns on the top of the head.
This works great for younger kids and adds a playful, symmetrical look that pops in photos.
Easy hairstyles for picture day don’t always have to be sleek, sometimes a little spunk is all you need!
12. Fishtail Braid
The fishtail braid looks intricate but is surprisingly simple to create. It’s a great option for long hair and gives off a polished vibe without being too formal.
Pair it with a simple outfit or dress and add a ribbon at the end for a picture-perfect finish.
Fishtails are a stylish upgrade from traditional braids and perfect for kids who love trying something new for their special day.
13. Curly Puff Ponytail
For natural curls and coils, a puff ponytail is the way to go. It keeps curls defined and lifted, showcasing volume while staying neat and photo-ready.
You can position the puff high, low, or to the side depending on preference. Use a satin scrunchie for added style.
It’s one of the best easy hairstyles for picture day for textured hair and gives an effortlessly cool look.
14. Dutch Braid Pigtails
Dutch braids lie on top of the hair, giving a 3D effect that’s perfect for photos. Turn them into pigtails for an extra-cute and youthful style.
This hairstyle is secure, lasts all day, and looks adorable from every angle. Ideal for sports-loving or high-energy kids who need a style that stays put.
It’s the perfect mix of structure and fun and the added volume makes it a great choice for picture day glam.
15. Faux Hawk for Boys or Girls
A faux hawk brings boldness and confidence without actually shaving sides. Simply create a tight set of ponytails or twist-outs down the center of the scalp.
It’s a creative way to showcase personality while still keeping things clean and neat for picture day.
This style works on short or medium hair and can be personalized with fun clips or color accents.
16. Sleek Center-Parted Low Bun
Minimalist and modern, the low bun with a center part is great for older kids and teens. It’s ideal for those who prefer subtle elegance over playful styling.
The smooth center part adds symmetry while the bun keeps everything tucked in. Use a strong-hold gel or styling cream for a flawless finish.
This one’s a go-to easy hairstyle for picture day when simplicity speaks volumes.
17. Braided Bun
A braided bun gives you the best of both worlds: the sophistication of a bun and the texture of a braid. Braid the ponytail before wrapping it into a bun and securing it with pins.
It’s a secure option that looks polished from every angle and works well with hair accessories.
Pair it with a classic dress or school uniform for a timeless picture day look.
18. Topsy Tail Pony
The topsy tail takes a simple ponytail and gives it an elegant twist literally. Create a low ponytail, split the section above the elastic, and flip the hair through.
This small change adds volume and sophistication without complicating the morning routine.
A great example of how easy hairstyles for picture day can still make a big impact in photos.
19. Top Knot with Bow
The top knot is clean, fast, and photogenic. Add a big bow or clip at the base for that extra wow factor.
This style is perfect for short prep time and stays put all day with minimal touch-ups.
It’s ideal for kids with medium to long hair and looks fabulous with or without bangs.
20. Spiral Curls with Side Clip
If you’ve got time to curl your child’s hair, go for spiral curls and sweep one side back with a decorative clip.
This soft, romantic style is perfect for picture day and gives volume and bounce that flatters every face shape.
Use a curling wand and light setting spray to keep curls defined but touchable.
21. Simple French Twist
The French twist might sound grown-up, but it can be done simply for kids with long or straight hair. Twist the hair inward and secure with bobby pins.
It’s a classic style with timeless elegance, perfect for a formal outfit or themed school picture day.
Add a few pearl pins or hair glitter to modernize the look for younger children.
22. Twisted Front Strands
Take small sections from the front, twist them backward, and secure them with pins or clips at the back of the head.
This style works with any hair length and keeps the face clear for a beautiful portrait.
You can leave the rest of the hair down or in a ponytail it’s flexible, stylish, and incredibly easy.
23. Zigzag Part Ponytails
For a creative spin, use a comb to create a zigzag part before tying up ponytails. It adds flair and personality with minimal effort.
Perfect for playful picture day themes, this hairstyle shows off both neatness and style in one go.
Pair with glitter elastics or colorful clips to amp up the fun factor.
24. Wavy Lob with Barrettes
If your child has a lob (long bob), create soft waves and add barrettes on both sides. It’s simple but chic.
Use a flat iron or curling wand with heat protection to achieve the waves. Tuck one side behind the ear for an asymmetrical effect.
Easy hairstyles for picture day like this one prove that less really can be more.
25. Cornrow Braids
Cornrows are a protective style that looks incredible on camera. They can be styled straight back or with a curved pattern for added flair.
Add beads at the ends or colored rubber bands to personalize the look.
Best of all, cornrows last for days, making them a stress-free option for busy mornings.
26. Afro Puffs
Afro puffs are high-volume and high-impact. Simply part the hair down the center and secure each side with an elastic to create full, round puffs.
This is a bold and joyful hairstyle that celebrates natural texture and stands out beautifully in school photos.
Use a leave-in conditioner to keep curls defined and frizz-free.
27. Short Bob with Side Part
For children with short hair, a sleek side part and shine serum go a long way. Tuck one side with a clip to complete the look.
This low-maintenance style is best for straight or wavy textures and pairs well with both formal and casual clothing.
The side part adds dimension and sophistication while keeping the styling process quick.
28. Loose Waves with Middle Part
Loose waves add bounce and charm without looking too “done.” Simply part the hair down the middle and use a curling wand or overnight braids for waves.
This style frames the face beautifully and works for all hair types.
Top it off with a small flower pin or clip behind the ear for extra sweetness.
29. Rolled Under Ends with Headband
Use a round brush or flat iron to roll the ends under and finish with a wide headband for a polished touch.
This is great for shoulder-length hair and takes just a few minutes to execute.
Headbands come in so many styles from velvet to glitter that you can easily match them with your outfit.
30. Rope Braid Ponytail
The rope braid involves twisting two sections of hair and wrapping them together to form a spiral braid. Secure at the bottom with a tie.
This style looks neat, stays in place, and adds a creative twist to standard ponytails.
Finish it off with a patterned scrunchie to complete the look for easy hairstyles for picture day.
Conclusion
Choosing the right hairstyle doesn’t have to be a struggle. These easy hairstyles for picture day are proof that with a few bobby pins, hair ties, and a splash of creativity, you can create picture-perfect looks in no time.
From sleek buns to whimsical braids and bold puffs to playful curls, there’s something here for every child’s personality and hair type. Remember, the best hairstyle is the one your child feels most confident wearing.
So test out a few styles before the big day and get ready for those smiles because great hair leads to even greater photos!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the best way to prep hair for picture day?
Start with clean, detangled hair. Use leave-in conditioner or a lightweight styling cream to make the hair manageable. Avoid heavy gels that may appear greasy in photos. Lightly spray with a setting mist to hold the style all day.
Q2: How early should I style my child’s hair on picture day?
Plan to style hair 30–45 minutes before leaving for school or the shoot. This ensures the style stays fresh and allows for touch-ups if needed. For intricate braids, consider practicing the night before.
Q3: Can I use accessories without them being distracting in photos?
Yes! Choose neutral-toned or outfit-matching accessories. Avoid anything too large or reflective that might catch light awkwardly. Bows, headbands, and clips can enhance the hairstyle without overpowering it.
Q4: How do I make sure the hairstyle lasts all day?
Use small amounts of styling gel, mousse, or holding spray. Secure buns or braids with extra pins and avoid touching the hair too much. Styles like braids and buns naturally stay in place longer than loose curls.
Q5: What’s the easiest hairstyle for boys on picture day?
A side-parted style with a light pomade or gel is quick and classic. For longer hair, a slicked-back bun or defined curls works well. Keep it clean, brushed, and neat for the best results.
