Senior year is such an exciting season of life. Between football games, prom, graduation, and planning your next adventure, there is so much to celebrate. Your senior session is designed to capture who you are during this once-in-a-lifetime chapter, and I want you to feel complete confident and prepared before your photoshoot.
Here are my top tips for making the most of your senior session!
Choose Outfits that feel like you
The most important thing you can wear is confidence.
I always recommend bringing 2-4 outfits (If your package allows for changes) that showcase different sides of your personality. Consider including
- a casual everyday outfit
- a dressy outfit
- something that reflects your hobbies or interests
- your cap and gown or college gear
- Neutral colors, soft tones, and timeless styles photograph beautifully and help keep the focus on you. Avoid large logos, busy patterns, or neon colors that can distract from your images
Pro Tip: try everything on before your session to make sure it fits comfortably and makes you feel confident.
Don't forget the details
The little make a big difference in photos. before your photos, I recommend doing the following:
- Clean your shoes
- Remove hair ties or unwanted bracelets from your wrist the day before
- Trim or clean your nails
- Iron or steam your outfits
- Empty your pockets
- Make sure your phone isn't in your pocket
If you're wearing jewelry, keep it simple and something you'd normally wear.
Hair & Makeup
You don't need a professional stylist to look amazing, but if you're considering one, this is a great occasion.
Whether you do it yourself or hire someone, aim for a look that still feels like you. Natural makeup tends to photograph best, and freshly styled hair helps you feel more confident. Avoid trying a brand-new haircut or hair color right before your session. If you're getting your hair cut, I recommend doing it earlier in the week of your session.
Look & Feel Refreshed
The best editing tool is a well-rested and hydrated face.
Drink plenty of water the day before, get a good night's sleep, and eat a meal before your session. You'll feel more energized, confident, and ready to have fun.
Bring a few extras
I always recommend packing a small bag with the following:
- Water
- Chapstick
- Oil blotting sheets, powder, or a beauty blender
- Hair brush / comb
- Extra hair ties
- Safety pins
- Tissues
- Comfortable shoes for walking between locations
Consider personal touches
The best senior photos tell your story. Bring anything that's meaningful to you, like:
- Sports equipment
- Musical instruments
- Books
- Flowers
- Your vehicle
- Your pet
- College shirt/hoodie
- Hobby-related items
Trust the process
One of the biggest concerns I hear is: "I'm awkward in front of the camera!"
I promise, you don't need to know how to pose. I'll guide you through every pose, movement, and prompt so your photos feel natural, relaxed, and genuinely you. My goal is for your session to feel more like hanging out than standing in front of a camera.
Have Fun!
This season only happens once.
Don't stress about being perfect. Laugh, dance, twirl, celebrate everything you've accomplished, and enjoy the experience. Some of the best photos happen in the in-between moments.
My job is to capture who you are right now so you can look back on these memories for years to come.
Ready to book your senior session?
Whether you're dreaming of a golden field, downtown streets, wildflowers, or your favorite local spot, I'd love to help create photos that feel authentic to you and celebrate this exciting season of life.