SmilePlease
Photographer Guide for Parents

Brittany Olander Photography for School Photos in St. Paul, MN

5.017 reviews

A parent-focused guide to whether this local photographer is a good fit for school portraits, missed picture day, milestone photos, sibling shots, and backup photo needs.

Family PhotographyChildren & KidsMilestone PortraitsIndependent studio
Brittany Olander Photography portfolio photo
Brittany Olander Photography portfolio photo 2Brittany Olander Photography portfolio photo 3
Business info, ratings & photos from Google.View on Google Maps →· Updated Jun 2026

Photos: Brittany Olander Photography, Nicole Banholzer

Good fit if you want:

  • Custom portraits & milestone photos
  • Sibling or family photos
  • Outdoor or natural-light sessions
  • A relaxed experience for your child

Consider other options if:

  • You need a photo the same day
  • You only need a simple yearbook headshot with a tight deadline
  • You already have good photos and just need a school-style portrait

How They Fit Common School Photo Needs

NeedFitWhat Parents Should Know
Missed picture dayGoodThey can create school-style portraits. Ask about turnaround time.
Yearbook photoMaybeConfirm crop, background, file size requirements, and the deadline.
Sibling portraitsStrongGreat option for siblings and family combinations.
Same-day backupWeakConsider AI school photos or retake day for faster results.
Milestone keepsakes (K, 5th, 8th, 12th)StrongIdeal for capturing big school moments with a personal touch.
Budget-friendly backupMaybeMini sessions may be available — check their current offerings.

Fit levels are general guidance based on typical services. Always confirm details directly with the photographer.

About Their Style

Style
Natural, warm, timeless
Lighting
Studio
Typical locations
Studio
Best for
Families, kids, milestones
Session types
Full sessions

Questions to Ask Before Booking

Helpful questions to make sure they’re the right fit for your school photo needs.

1. Can you create a classic school-style headshot?

2. Can you match yearbook crop and background requirements?

3. How quickly will we receive digital files?

4. Do you offer mini sessions?

5. Do you work with kids who are camera-shy?

6. Can siblings be included in the session?

7. Are retouching and color corrections included?

8. Will we receive both digital files and print options?

Compare Your School Photo Options

Every family is different. Here’s how your main options compare.

OptionBest ForSpeedCostConvenienceCustomizationYearbook-Style FitKeepsake Quality
Local photographer (Brittany Olander Photography)Custom portraits, siblings, milestones1–2 weeks$$Medium (booking required)HighMaybe (ask first)Excellent
School retake dayOfficial replacement school photoWeeks (months)$Low (limited timing)LowExcellentGood
AI school photo (SmilePlease)Fast backup with existing photosMinutes$High (from home)MediumGood (school-style)Good
Chain studioControlled studio setup2–5 days$$MediumLowMaybeGood
Parent DIY photoSimple needs, informal useVaries$HighLowWeakVaries

Cost guide: $ = budget-friendly · $$ = moderate · $$$ = premium

Nearby School Photo Alternatives

Other options in and around St. Paul.

Backup plan

Need a school photo faster?

If you already have a few clear photos of your child, SmilePlease can create a polished school-style portrait without scheduling a new shoot — handy for missed picture day, backups, and family keepsakes. Another option when speed or convenience matters.

From Notes from Picture Day

Helpful Guides for Parents