1. BE COMFORTABLE

If you do not like fitted clothing (super tight dresses or pieces that fit awkwardly) then leave them at home! Personally, I try to steer clear of items that are fitted in the tummy area (don’t we all?) just because it makes me self- conscious and I’m constantly wondering if it looks bad. So, if there are pieces in your closet that make you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable, don’t include them in your senior portrait wardrobe! Additionally, we will most likely be sitting on the ground, laying down, walking and doing other things that could be difficult if your clothing is uncomfortable!

2. BE BRIGHT + THINK OUTSIDE OF THE BOX

On camera, solid black + white can make skin tones look very washed out and unflattering. So, when choosing outfits for your senior session, try to choose colors that POP and that compliment your hair + skin colors! Primary colors like red, royal blue and yellow photograph beautifully as well as emerald green, bright purples, pinks, oranges and any other colors that really POP! Sometimes, color combos that may seem odd in-person end up photographing BEAUTIFULLY on camera!

3. ADD LAYERS

In the cold months (fall + winter), adding layers to your outfits always looks STUNNING in portraits! A sweater with a flannel underneath paired with a vest + statement necklace or scarf adds so much dimension to your images and makes for super fun posing options! Even in the warmer months (spring + summer) you can add these layers + dimension by wearing a tank top with a cute sheer cardigan or by throwing a denim vest over a dress!

4. PLAY WITH TEXTURES

Sometimes textures like sequins, furs and sparkles can be considered “daring” or “over the top” but, in portraits, they are the BEST! Adding texture to your outfit makes the biggest difference, and it prevents the images from looking dull! Combining textures that you may not normally use together like sequins + cable knit sweaters or leather + fur make GREAT pairs!

5. DON’T BE AFRAID TO ACCESSORIZE

During a senior session, or any photo shoot, the more the merrier!! When planning your outfits, don’t forget to plan accessories!! Stacks of bangles, long necklaces, statement pieces, scarves, hats, bright shoes and other add-ons can make or break an outfit!

6. MIX IT UP

When planning your outfits, make sure that you have a VARIETY of looks! I tell all of my seniors to choose from these categories: casual, cozy, dressy, school- related, sports-related, preppy or edgy. I always recommend choosing 2-3 of those categories and finding outfits accordingly. This provides a beautiful array of looks during your senior portrait session, so each outfit looks dramatically different!



Pinterest Boards for Senior Photo Outfit Ideas

Where do you go to get fun ideas for what to wear? I usually head over to pinterest and you can find many of my boards there that can help you plan your clothing. Go check out my pinterest account: https://pin.it/5JKFx1yI3

Easy Senior Photo Locations You Can Find Near You

The options are endless when it comes to senior photos, but if you’re still struggling with where to take them, these are some common places that you can find anywhere.

  • Field
  • Anywhere with water: lake, beach, river, creek, etc.
  • Barn
  • The school
  • Roof tops
  • Colorful Murals
  • Brick Wall
  • Mountains
  • City Buildings
  • Coffee Shop


Easy Senior Photo Locations You Can Find Near You

The options are endless when it comes to senior photos, but if you’re still struggling with where to take them, these are some common places that you can find anywhere.

  • Field
  • Anywhere with water: lake, beach, river, creek, etc.
  • Barn
  • The school
  • Roof tops
  • Colorful Murals
  • Brick Wall
  • Mountains
  • City Buildings
  • Coffee Shop


More Tips..


What to pack for your senior session:

1. Primary Outfit

AKA your fav fit! The one you “have” to have! Most of the seniors I work with want two or more outfits. You will definitely have more variety if you bring more than one outfit. Especially if they are radically different instead of similar.

2. Secondary Outfit

The one you like, but not as much as the main fit.

3. College Shirts

If you’ve already committed to a specific school bring a college shirt for a few images. If you’re not sure yet, you can either bring multiple shirts for all the one’s you’ve applied to, or you can wait until the grad cap and gown sessions and take a couple in your college shirt then.

4. Accessories for each outfit

If you’re planning on wearing jewelry, you might consider changing out earrings, necklaces, etc. I typically suggest minimal jewelry to keep the focus on you, the subject, instead of what you’re wearing. You may also need to pack belts or ties.

5. Shoes for each outfit

Think about what shoes you need for each outfit. This could be sneakers, dress shoes, sandals, etc. A little tip is to also make sure the bottoms of your shoes are clean. I have had to photoshop many the bottoms of shoes to make them look less yucky.

6. Comfortable walking shoes

You will want to bring some comfy slip on sandals or flip flops if you’re shoes are uncomfortable or if they aren’t broken in yet. It’s hard to be carefree and smile naturally when you’re feet are forming a giant blister. In fact, I always recommend comfort over appearance in every situation.

7. Hairbrush or Comb

The wind can be unpredictable. It’s always a good idea to bring a comb to brush your hair out.

8. Hair ties, pins, or clips

This will help your images have variety as well. Pulling up your hair or pinning it back can be a great way to some spice.

9. Hair spray or gel

You know if you need more hair spray or gel every so often. If you’re out in the heat of the day you may need to apply more product to keep your hair looking the way you desire.

10. Makeup kit

You may need to reapply foundation, concealer, blush, eyeshadow, mascara, lipstick, etc.

11. Mirror

If you need to reapply makeup or fix your hair, you’ll need a mirror.

12. Props

A baby picture, letter board, confetti (We'll need garbage bag to clean it up) are a few ideas

13. Hat or cap

There are some really cute hats out there that can not only provide shade and coverage for your face but can fit a whole aesthetic.

14. Makeup remover wipes

If it’s hot outside these wipes may help you to fix any makeup issues. Or if you want to go bare faced for the second half of your session you can use these to remove makeup.

15. Chapstick or lip balm

Keep your lips looking and feeling soft.

16. Tissues

If you wear makeup, tissues may come in handy as well. Or for mom, because it wouldn’t be the first time a mom had an unexpected tear or two watching from afar.

17. Poses/ideas

If there's any poses or ideas you want to do, make sure to bring it with you so we can do them.

18. Pets

Your pets are always become to your senior photos.

19. Water bottle

Don’t forget a water bottle full of ice-cold water to keep you feeling hydrated.

20. Snacks

Just because you’re a teenager doesn’t mean you don’t need a snack. Most of the time these sessions take place around dinner time so you’ll probably be hungry. I suggest fruit or snacks with a higher water content as well.

21. Musical instrument

Bring your band instrument, or guitar, or other fun instruments.

22. Sports equipment

If you want to do sports related images you may want to pack a football, basketball, or dance shoes. Don’t forget the clothing that goes along with these also.

23. Hobby-related items

We can incorporate your hobbies in so many fun ways. Be sure to chat with me about it so we can start planning how to photograph you with your books, art supplies, or other hobbies.