What to Wear for Your Senior Portraits

One of the biggest questions I get before a senior session is, “What should I wear?” And my biggest piece of advice is always the same: wear something that feels like YOU.

Your senior portraits are about capturing who you are during such an exciting time in your life. Your personality, your style, your interests, and even the little things you’re into right now are all part of your story. You don’t need to completely change your style or buy an entirely new wardrobe just because you’re having professional photos taken.

That being said, a little planning can make a big difference!

Bring More Than One Look

If your session allows for outfit changes, take advantage of it! I love when seniors bring a few different looks because it gives your final gallery so much more variety.

Think about choosing outfits that each have a different feel. You might bring something casual that feels like your everyday style, something a little more dressed up, and an outfit that shows off your personality or interests.

For example, jeans and a cute top can give you a relaxed, natural look, while a dress, skirt, or button up shirt can give a more elevated upscale look. Don't forget bring your cap and gown, jerseys, college apparel and hobbies.

Choose Clothes You Feel Confident In

This is probably more important than any fashion “rule.” If you’re uncomfortable in an outfit, constantly adjusting it, or worried about how it looks, chances are you’re going to feel that way during your photos too.

Choose clothing that fits you well and makes you feel confident when you put it on. If you look in the mirror and immediately love how you feel, that’s usually a pretty good sign!

Bring Something That Represents YOU

Senior portraits don't have to be just about getting a few pretty pictures for graduation announcements. This is your chance to document who you are right now.

Play a sport? Bring your uniform, jersey, ball, glove, or equipment.

In FFA? Bring your jacket.

Love your truck, car, horse, guitar, books, art, or another hobby? Let's incorporate it!

These are often some of my favorite photos from senior sessions because they're personal. Years from now, those little details will remind you of exactly who you were during your senior year.

Pay Attention to the Little Details

Before your session, take a quick look at the little things that are easy to forget. Make sure your shoes work with your outfits, remove hair ties from your wrists if you don't want them photographed, and think about your nails if your hands will be visible.

Bring anything you might need for quick touch-ups, too—a brush, hairspray, lip gloss, makeup, or whatever makes you feel your best.

Don't forget to accessorize! Jewelry, hats, flowers, Jackets, etc... always help add to your outfit.