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Stomping Ground Photo? Where do I begin?
First, let me say this: I think “reinventing the school picture” is a bit of an understatement, because this Brooklyn-based photography team is basically kicking the traditional school picture’s ass fifteen thousand times over.
For starters, the way they summarize their business makes my photographer’s-heart sing: “Our philosophy is simple: let kids be kids and deliver the highest quality portraits at the best possible price. We strive to create portraits that hang on walls not shoved in drawers.”
Dennis Kleiman is the Chief Photographer, and has also worked with The White Stripes, Neko Case, Sonic Youth, and Cat Power. 
Basically, Dennis Kleiman is awesome. He’s also a dad, hence his interest in school portraits that are bubbling with personality.
Stomping Ground works with the children and shoots numerous photos of each child. Then, they let you pick up to six photos that you love, and then you choose your favorite. They even prefer to meet with the children beforehand to explain who they are and how the photos work in an age-appropriate way.
Check it out: Portfolio 1 and Portfolio 2. If you need more information about how it all works, or are simply curious, you can learn more here. While based in Brooklyn, Stomping Ground also operates in Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Boston, Atlanta, and Phoenix.
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Thanks to Katie for the heads-up.
Appreciate the kind words! Thanks so much.
Kelsey&Dennis
Omigod – these are SO frickin awesome! I just hope they have a field office here in Seattle by the time my son is in school.
Oh I’m so glad you guys checked out that link! Kelsey + Dennis of Stomping Ground Photo are GREAT + their perspective on photographing kids is so inspiring.