Planning your senior photo session should feel exciting, not overwhelming. I've worked with hundreds of seniors who have incredible personal style, and honestly? The best photos happen when you show up as yourself. That said, if you're feeling stuck or want some guidance on what translates well to camera, I've got you covered.
The Real Goal: Clean and Authentic
Here's what I care about most: that you look like YOU. If you have a signature style and already know what makes you feel confident, bring that energy. Trust your instincts. The only thing that tends not to photograph well? Super busy patterns or mismatched pieces that compete for attention. The camera reads those differently than our eyes do, and they can pull focus away from your face and personality. Beyond that, you do you.
If You're Unsure Where to Start
Some seniors come to me with their whole look planned. Others want a little direction. If you're in the second camp, here are some current, timeless approaches that'll still look fresh years from now:
Movement-friendly pieces work beautifully. Flowy dresses, well-fitting jeans, rompers, and jumpsuits photograph gorgeously and let you move naturally. When you're comfortable, it shows.
Layers add variety without extra outfits. A denim jacket, cardigan, hat, or scarf can completely shift the mood of a shot and add visual interest.
If you want a classic, timeless vibe, neutrals with texture and maybe a pop of color are always a safe bet.
Think creams, soft denim, rust, sage, dusty pastels—mixed with lace, chunky knits, or distressed denim for depth. But again, only if that feels like you.
Shoes you can actually walk in. Especially if we're shooting somewhere like NCMA where we'll cover some ground. Bring comfy slip-ons or sandals for in-between moments.
A Few Practical Heads-Ups
Short skirts or dresses can limit posing options. If you love a shorter look, fitted shorts or bike shorts underneath give you freedom to move however feels natural.
Think through your undergarments for each outfit. Nude strapless bras, adhesive options, seamless underwear—whatever works. Toss a backup in your bag.
If it wrinkles easily, it'll wrinkle in photos. A quick steam or iron beforehand and transporting on hangers makes a difference.
Here's what I recommend bringing
Your Shoot Day Bag
- Water and a light snack, especially if it's warm out
- Lip gloss, powder, a small brush, and hair ties or clips
- A wax stick or smoothing balm for flyaways (Bed Head Stick or She Is Bomb Wax Stick are lifesavers)
- All your accessories—jewelry, belts, hair clips, hats. Better to have options
- Touch-up products for humidity (North Carolina summers are no joke)
- An extra pair of undergarments, just in case. Different tops/dresses sometimes need different bra solutions
- Comfortable shoes for walking between spots. I recommend bringing some slip on shoes like crocs or slides for walking between locations.
Day-Of Prep
In the week before:
- Exfoliate and moisturize your lips
- Check your nail polish—refresh it or go bare
- If you usually groom your brows, don't skip it
- Pack outfits on hangers, already ironed or steamed
On the day:
- Give yourself time to get ready without rushing
- Eat something beforehand and bring water
- Use the restroom before we start—especially for larger locations or longer sessions
Let's document your story
Here's the thing: I want you to look back at these photos in five, ten, even twenty years and see yourself—not a costume, not a trend you felt pressured into, but the real you at this moment in your life.
A little prep just means we can focus on capturing your personality instead of fixing wardrobe issues.
I've got the camera handled. You bring the confidence and authenticity.