How to Take Great Photos for Your Adoption Profile Book
Don’t be afraid to break the rules. Be silly! Be Fun! Be you!
Sometimes the best photos break all the rules!
Rule 1: Always look at the camera
Rule 2: Keep your eyes open
Rule 3: Smile with your mouth slightly open to look approachable
This photo breaks the typical “rules,” but that’s exactly what makes it so strong. Their personalities come through naturally, and that kind of authenticity is what resonates most with expectant parents.
Tell a story with your photos
Good photos don’t just show people and places—they tell a story. Family photos can be especially tricky. While it’s natural to want to include everyone, too many group shots can feel overwhelming.
One of our favorite examples shows both sides of a family gathered together. You see their closeness, while a cross on the wall quietly reflects their faith. The expressions are clear, the home provides context, and together the image paints a thoughtful, authentic story.
Seek out unique locations for photo backdrops
Unique, colorful backdrops can transform photos. One client chose a mural wall in her town, a setting that instantly added color, energy, and personality. Murals are popular right now, and they’re a great way to capture vibrant images that stand out. Choosing a location like this can set your profile apart and create the kind of detail that helps expectant parents connect.
Include photos of your favorite hobby or activity
It can be tough to capture hobbies without looking staged, but action shots are worth the effort. Photos of you cooking, hiking, or playing an instrument bring your interests to life and help expectant parents understand what you enjoy. The goal isn’t to showcase activities just for the sake of it, it’s to highlight the things you truly love to do, the ones that reflect your personality and lifestyle in an authentic way.
Take photos around your community
Families often worry about the “home” photo. Not all homes are photogenic, and that’s okay. Expectant parents aren’t looking at the size of your house but they do want to understand the world their child might grow up in.
One family’s profile included a shot in their downtown neighborhood. The photo showed charm, character, and community, exactly the kind of detail that helped tell their story. Think about what makes your own neighborhood special and capture that in your photos.
