Senior Photos: How to prepare and what to wear.
One of my favorite sessions to photograph is Senior portraits. It's such an exciting season of life! You're celebrating everything you've accomplished while standing on the edge of what's next. College, work, military, travel... whatever your future holds, this is such a fun chapter to capture.
After photographing many Seniors over the years, I get asked the same two questions over and over:
"How should I prepare?"
"What should I wear?"
Here's my best advice.
How to Prepare
Protect Your Skin
If your session is during the summer, this is my number one tip.
Avoid sunburns, tanning too much, or trying brand-new skincare treatments right before your session. That includes things like waxing, dermaplaning, harsh exfoliants, or new skincare products (unless recommended by your dermatologist).
Healthy, natural skin photographs beautifully.
Think About Your Hobbies
Your Senior session should tell your story.
Whether you're an athlete, hunter, musician, dancer, artist, or involved in FFA, theater, debate, or anything else—bring it!
Not only do hobbies showcase your personality, but they also give us natural props that create more variety in your photos.
If you're bringing equipment or gear, take a few minutes beforehand to clean it up and gather everything in one place so nothing gets forgotten.
"I'm Not Really a Hobby Person..."
That's completely okay!
Your photos won't be boring—I promise.
Sometimes simple props work just as well. For the girls, a bouquet of flowers, a cute hat, or another fun accessory can add movement and personality to your photos.
For the guys, hobby props are usually enough, and honestly, sometimes no props at all is the right choice. Guys tend to photograph best with relaxed, natural posing.
Find Some Inspiration
Spend a little time browsing Pinterest or looking through some of my previous Senior sessions.
Save poses, locations, outfits, or editing styles that catch your eye.
This helps me get a better feel for your personality and ensures your session feels like you.
What to Wear
Let's be honest...
This is usually the most stressful part.
Whether you're into fashion or have no idea where to start, choosing outfits can feel overwhelming. Here's the guide I give most of my Seniors. These aren't rules—just a great starting point.
1. A Nice Casual Outfit
This is usually your most versatile look.
Guys: Nice jeans or khakis with a polo or button-down.
Girls: Jeans with a dressy top or another outfit that feels polished but comfortable.
Many Seniors choose multiple outfits in this style, and that's perfectly okay!
2. A Dressier Outfit
This doesn't have to mean prom attire.
For guys, maybe it's dress pants, a button-down, tie, or even a suit jacket if that's your style.
For girls, this could be a classy dress, jumpsuit, or tailored outfit.
These outfits photograph especially well indoors or when highlighting activities like music, speech, debate, or other more formal interests.
3. An Outfit That Feels Like You
This one might make some parents nervous...
But hear me out.
Choose an outfit that feels like the best version of what you'd naturally wear.
If you're a jeans-and-hoodie person, wear a nice hoodie and a fresh pair of jeans.
Years from now, you'll want to look back and recognize yourself—not someone you were pretending to be for a photo shoot.
4. (For the Ladies) Bring a Dress
Not a formal gown.
Think a summer dress or maxi dress.
Flowy dresses photograph beautifully, create movement, and give us lots of variety throughout your gallery.
Before You Leave...
✔ Double-check that you packed every outfit.
✔ Don't forget shoes, socks, accessories, jewelry, and any hobby props.
✔ Make sure your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free.
✔ Wear outfits you feel comfortable and confident in.
✔ Most importantly...
Have Fun!
I know this can seem like a lot of planning, but your Senior session shouldn't feel stressful.
We'll laugh, explore, try different ideas, and create photos that genuinely feel like you.
This is such a once-in-a-lifetime season, and I can't wait to help you remember it.
