Pathways Academy School Photos

Traditional school photos often prioritize a specific, "perfect" pose over capturing who your child actually is. My approach is different. I bring boutique school photography to the Raleigh area by focusing on connection and comfort, allowing for a child-led experience that trades stiff smiles for genuine personality. Whether it’s a shy smirk, a curious head tilt, or a joyful thumbs-up, I create a space where students feel free to be themselves. The result isn't just a record of a grade level; it's an authentic, cinematic portrait of who your child is right now.

On photo day, children will come to the portrait area with their class. I take time to meet each child where they are, moving at a pace that feels comfortable for them. Some kids jump right in, others need a little more space or time to warm up, and that’s completely okay.

My priority is to create an environment where your child feels safe and respected so their photos reflect who they actually are. There’s no pressure to perform or give a “perfect” smile. I follow their lead, keep things low-pressure, and focus on making the experience feel easy and supportive while capturing images that feel honest and true to them.

I recommend choosing clothing that your child feels comfortable and confident in first and foremost. If certain fabrics, tags, or fits are a no-go for them, it’s always better to honor that. When kids feel good in what they’re wearing, it shows in their photos.

If you’re able, softer colors and simple patterns tend to photograph best and help keep the focus on your child’s face. If possible, please steer clear of neon colors. Since portraits are taken from the shoulders up, the top they wear will be the most visible part of the image.

Within three weeks of photo day, you will receive an email with a link to your school’s proofing gallery. Each child will have at least 3 images placed in a password protected album, making it easy to view and order.

Families have the freedom to choose which images they’d like to order. Prints and digital files can all be purchased directly through the gallery. Unlike traditional school photography, there are no pre-purchased packages. All prints and digital files are sold à la carte within the viewing gallery, so you only purchase the images you truly love. This approach gives families complete flexibility and ensures you’re only investing in the portraits that best capture your child.

Please note: the gallery will remain open for fourteen (14) days only, and all orders must be placed within that time frame.

Digital file orders are delivered instantly. As soon as your purchase is complete, download instructions will be sent directly to your email. This allows you to enjoy and share your child’s portraits right away.

All print and tangible product orders will be delivered directly to your school within three weeks of the gallery closing. The school will then send orders home with students. This ensures that families receive their portraits quickly and conveniently.

All tangible products are produced by a high-quality professional print lab, ensuring your portraits are beautifully printed and made to last. Please note: professional prints may look different than those produced by consumer labs. Our lab delivers true-to-life colors, accurate tones, and archival quality.

Pricing is reviewed annually and may change from year to year. Wake County’s sales & use tax (7.25%) is added to each purchase amount. Current pricing is listed below.

High Resolution Digitals

• Single digital image - $35

• All digital files - $90

Prints

• 4 wallets - $12

• 4×6 - $10

• 5×7 - $14

• 8×10 - $18

Canvas

• 8×10 - $90

• 11×14 - $110

• 16×20 - $155