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There’s something magical about this time of year.
New backpacks. Clean sneakers. That nervous excitement buzzing in the air as kids head back to school. But if you’re anything like me, you’ve looked at your kid lately and thought: When did you grow up so fast?
That’s exactly why I created my “Who They Are Today” Back to School mini sessions. These aren’t your average school photos with forced smiles and stiff poses (which I am happy to do those for you too, but why? lol!). These sessions are designed to capture your child’s real personality—their quirks, their favorites, and the little things that make them them right now.
Because let’s face it—those favorite things don’t last forever.
Miss Ivy came over recently to model for these minis, and let me tell you—she was a dream to photograph. With her natural red ringlets (yes, natural!) and her warm, rust-colored eyes, she looked like she’d walked straight out of a storybook. At first, she was a little shy. She didn’t want to talk about her favorite book or toy, and that’s totally okay. These sessions are low-pressure, and I always give kids space.
But the moment she picked up her sweet pink bunny and her favorite book, everything changed. Her face lit up. Her shoulders relaxed. She became her full self—and that’s what I love to capture.
What to Expect at Your Session
These mini sessions are quick and fun, just 10 minutes, and they’re all about celebrating your kiddo exactly as they are.
Whether they bring a favorite book, a plush friend, a backpack full of Pokémon cards, or their sibling’s hand to hold—this session is meant to freeze this moment in time.
✅ What’s included:
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10-minute session
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5 digital images
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$50
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Location: Avondale, AZ
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Siblings are welcome to be photographed together!
What to Bring (And What to Leave at Home)
I encourage families to bring something personal to the session—whatever makes your child feel seen. Think: a favorite stuffed animal, book, drawing, or even a funky hat they refuse to take off. This is their time to shine.
Why These Photos Matter
We take pictures to remember. Not just faces, but feelings. And there’s something so raw and real about this in-between stage—before the braces, before the attitude (ok, more attitude), before they start hiding their stuffed animals in the closet.
These “Who They Are Today” sessions are my heart. They’re a chance to preserve the things that won’t make it into the school yearbook—but that will mean everything to you years from now.
Ready to Book?
Grab your child’s session today and celebrate who they are—curious, quirky, messy, magical.
Book here: www.kimvanosphotography.com
Let’s make back to school something truly worth remembering.
