As a mom of student athletes, I know how hard it can be to get everyone on the same page. Whether it’s practice times, travel schedules, or yes — even pictures — there’s always that one thing that feels impossible to coordinate.

When it comes to team and media day photography, I often hear, “If one parent doesn’t want it, then it’s not worth doing.” The problem? That hesitation can mean the entire team misses out on something that celebrates their hard work and creates lasting memories. I get it… pictures are just one more expense to add on to all of the other expenses. All parents want great photos of their athlete— but budget is a real consideration. That is why we have a couple of options to make pictures affordable for everyone.

Why Team Photos Are About More Than Just One Parent’s Decision

Here’s the thing: youth sports photography in Topeka, Holton, and Atchison or anywhere in Northeast Kansas isn’t just about an individual picture. It’s about capturing the entire team — the unity, the pride, and the memories that go way beyond one season.

When a parent opts out, it can feel like the whole idea should be scrapped. But imagine this: years from now, your athlete flips through their photos. Do they want to see half a team picture? Or a full, powerful lineup where everyone looks tough, strong, and proud?

Cheap Isn’t Always Better

I know some teams end up going with a cheaper photographer — or even a parent with a camera. And while that might save a few dollars, it doesn’t always save the memory or create the experience you want.

Professional sports photography isn’t just about snapping a picture. It’s about:

Lighting every athlete properly.
Editing for consistency so no one looks left out.
Delivering high-quality media day photos coaches can use for banners, posters, and social media.
Making the session itself a fun experience athletes actually look forward to.

Cheap or free photos might “get the job done,” but they don’t give your team the pride they deserve.

Media Day Brings Teams Together

When athletes step into the studio or onto the field/court for media day, something special happens. They see their teammates in a new light. They get excited about showing off their skills, their uniforms, and yes — their swag.

Even my own son’s favorite photos weren’t just the solo ones. It was the ones with his team, standing shoulder to shoulder, looking strong and united. That’s the kind of pride that lasts.

My other favorite part with my son were the pictures that were their ideas. I will never forget when my son told me and his teammates he had the best idea that he had been thinking about for a while. He processed to lay on his stomach, put his hands under his chin, and kicked his heals up… everyone of course laughed but he loved it. Honestly, it wasn’t a “tough” picture at all…but it was one that he 100% created and loved. Each boy then created images they loved with their teammates.. because it was fun.

Let’s Make It Easy for Your Team

Coaches and parents already juggle so much. That’s why I’ve created simple options for team photography sessions in Topeka, Holton, Atchison, and Northeast Kansas. Whether it’s on-location media day or studio sessions with no upfront cost, we make it simple, fun, and worth it for every athlete. There are pros and cons with the different options. On location sessions allow for my space while the studio provides the opportunity for no upfront charges and opportunity for a multi-day shoot schedule for larger teams to make sure everyone gets into the shoot!

Ready to Get Your Team on Board?

Here’s how:

Share our Media Day page with your team parents.
Pick the option that works best for your group.
Contact us and let’s figure out the details.
Let me handle the rest — from setup to final delivery.

Don’t let hesitation keep your team from memories they’ll cherish. Let’s capture your athletes looking tough, confident, and united.

Another favorite of my son. We set up an all white station at media day because my son wanted a full size cut out of himself… this full size version of my son made it to every football game. He was in the student section and cheered with the cheerleaders! He now lives in the basement and continues to make me chuckle!