Your senior pictures are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to capture who you are at this moment and to celebrate everything you’ve accomplished thus far. Choosing the right outfits and accessories can make all the difference in ensuring your photos reflect your personality and stand the test of time. Whether you’re preparing for your photo shoot or still deciding on a wardrobe, these tips will help you look and feel your best.
How many outfits should I bring to my senior pictures?
Bring at least two outfits and two different pairs of shoes.
A good rule of thumb is to bring at least two outfits and two pairs of shoes to your senior photo shoot. For instance, one outfit could work better for an outdoor nature shoot, while another might pop against an urban backdrop. The two senior photo experiences at Kristen Elizabeth Photography have different outfit changes. However, having multiple outfits ensures variety in your photos and gives you options to match different settings and locations.
Have comfortable shoes for walking
While your primary shoes should complement your outfit, bringing comfortable walking shoes is essential. If your photo shoot includes multiple locations, you’ll thank yourself for packing sneakers, flats, or Crocs to wear between photo spots because, during most senior photo shoots, we end up walking around 3 miles.
Wear diverse outfits for your senior pictures.
Diversity is key when it comes to outfits. For your senior pictures, you want to have two or three looks that are casual, formal, or something that shows your personality. A casual outfit will keep the focus on you and be a compromise between your parents wanting the formal dress or suit and you wanting to wear something comfortable. A personality outfit lets you be you and show your fun side, highlight a hobby, or showcase your sports uniform.
Senior Outfits for Girls
Where do I even begin? A must-have outfit for girls for senior pictures is the timeless white dress. The white dress is a trend that has been going on for years, and every time a senior girl wears a white dress for her senior pictures, it’s always so beautiful! If you want to wear another dress for your senior pictures, I highly recommend a long, flowy dress. The flow and movement of the long skirt adds so much whimsy and youthfulness to the photos. If you’re not a girly girl or only want to wear one dress, choose jeans and a cute top that speaks to your personality and aesthetics. Remember, these are your senior pictures, so you should feel and look like yourself in these pictures! Below are some trendy places to shop for outfits.
- Abercrombie
- Altar’d State
- American Eagle
- Aritzia
- Francesca’s
- Free People
- Hollister
- LuLu’s (online only)
- Pac Sun
- Princess Polly
- Rent The Runway
- Urban Outfitters
- Zara
Senior Outfits for Guys
Guys, I know you probably don’t want your senior pictures taken, but this gives you the opportunity to wear your favorite clothes and take great photos you will be happy with in the future. Wearing a suit or dress pants with a button-up shirt and rolled sleeves will exude your confidence. You can even toss the suit jacket over your shoulder if you want. You will want to bring at least one formal outfit with long sleeves; white, black, or blue would be best. Then you could do a “business casual” look with a polo or short-sleeved button-up, dress pants, or nice shorts. It’ll probably be hot when we take your photos, but jeans and a hoodie are another excellent outfit choice. If you want more outfit ideas, check out this blog post – Top 4 Senior Photo Outfit Tips for Guys
Carter Daniels, does fantastic work if you need a haircut for your senior pictures. You’ll also have great conversation! His studio is located at the Salon Lofts in Burnsville, MN. Make sure to get your haircut 5-7 days before your photo shoot!
Not sure where to shop? Below are some suggestions!
Where do I change outfits?
This is a common question at the start of every senior photo shoot. I have a popup tent that I bring along and unfold when you need to change. Every time I unfold the tent, parents always say how clever of an idea it is to use the popup tent! So say goodbye to changing in your vehicle or porta-potty (ew, gross!). You’ll get a changing room wherever you want it!
How often do I change outfits?
If you have the full senior picture experience, we have about two hours of photo taking and four different outfits. After about 30 minutes in one outfit, I will ask you if you are ready to change into one of the other outfits you brought. This is when the popup tent comes in handy.
How should I wear my hair for senior pictures?
Most of your senior pictures will be casual, so it is a good idea to style your hair how you normally would. If you want to wear your hair up at some point during your photo shoot, bring some bobby pins or a hair clip, which will also help when you have to change outfits. If you prefer your hair up in a certain way, we can do that last to make sure your hair looks good in all of your senior photos.
Can I bring props for my senior photos?
Absolutely! Props can personalize your senior photos and make them even more meaningful. Here are a few popular ideas:
Cars
If you have a car you love, consider incorporating it into your photo shoot. Vintage cars, sporty rides, or even the car you drive every day can add a fun and unique touch to your photos.
Sports Gear
Showcase your athletic side by bringing sports equipment. A basketball, soccer ball, or your cheerleading uniform can capture a huge part of your high school experience. Don’t forget to bring your cleats or pom-poms to complete the look.
Pets
Your furry friends are part of your life, too! Bring your dog, cat, or even a small pet, like a rabbit or guinea pig. Make sure to check with your photographer in advance, and remember to bring treats to keep your pet’s. <Insert a picture of a senior and their pet>
These are your senior pictures; be yourself!
Wear what you enjoy in your senior pictures.
Your senior pictures should reflect your authentic self. While following the guidelines is helpful, the most important thing is wearing something you love and feel confident in. If you have a favorite outfit or accessory that makes you smile, bring it along. Staying true to your style will make your photos even more special.
What NOT to wear for your senior pictures.
While creativity is encouraged, there are a few outfit choices you’ll want to steer clear of to ensure the best results.
Pinstripes and patterns
Pinstripes and busy patterns can create a distortion called the Moire effect, making the design look warped in photos. To avoid this, stick with solid colors or simple patterns that won’t distract from your face or overall look.
Neon colors
Bright neon shades might seem like a fun way to stand out, but they can clash with natural backgrounds and draw too much attention. Instead, opt for neutral or muted tones that compliment your skin tone and the setting. I once had to redo a senior’s soccer pictures because they wore neon green spandex under white shorts.
Ill-fitting clothes
Avoid clothing that is too tight, loose, or unflattering to your shape. Oversized tops paired with loose pants can obscure your silhouette, while overly tight clothes can cause discomfort or wardrobe malfunctions. Aim for well-fitted pieces that highlight your natural figure.
Your senior pictures are all about celebrating this exciting chapter in your life. By carefully planning your outfits, bringing meaningful props, and staying true to yourself, we’ll create photos you and your family will cherish for many years. Remember to relax, have fun, and your personality will shine through each photo!
Ready for more blogs with great tips like this one? Check out – Senior Picture Outfit Tips: 4 Key Considerations
Want to book your senior pictures? Head to my website and fill out my contact form or send me an email – hello@kristenelizabehtphotography.org
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