The Class of 2026 is getting a fresh look in the yearbook. Instead of sharing space, each senior will have a dedicated page anchored by a large portrait and supported by candid and baby photos. Art teacher and yearbook advisor Mrs. Ingrid Van Slyke says the vision came from students revisiting the school archives. “It is not necessarily my vision, but the vision of the students in my classroom that is most important, because it is their yearbook,” she said. “The class has decided to make senior pages different. They are going to make each senior have their own page. The idea came from looking back at older yearbooks, where senior pages were a full-page spread.”
With portraits running larger, technical choices matter more. Van Slyke’s biggest emphasis is simple: submit high-quality files and label everything clearly. “The most common upload mistake is that people forget to label their photos,” she said. “Sometimes parents and students have different last names, and files are uploaded under the wrong name. It gets confusing. Make sure you label your photos.”
Photos by Ms. Ingrid Van Slyke.
Candid photos are required, too, and they should reflect what matters to each senior. “Variety is a good thing to think about for candid photos,” she said. “It is what is important to you. Family pictures, vacation photos, and sports. When you look back twenty years from now, what do you want to see from this time in your life?”
For the big portrait, focus on light and simple color choices. “Lighting is really important,” Van Slyke said. “You do not want someone standing in dark shade or in bright sunlight. The fall colors are a beautiful backdrop. If you are taking your photo by orange trees, maybe wear something blue or white, something that contrasts with the background,” she added. Students who prefer an on-campus option may book a session with Northwood student photographer Jacob Slagel by contacting Mrs. Van Slyke.
All photos are due Friday, November 1. The yearbook operates on early production deadlines, so staying on time matters. “They start printing now,” she said. “We have to keep our deadlines.” There is limited flexibility. “There is a grace period if a professional photographer needs a couple of days to deliver files, or for international families who need clarification,” she said. “Other than that, photos are expected on November 1.”
