Styling Tips for Senior Portraits

Styling Tips for a High School Senior Portrait Session

Your high school senior year is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, and your senior portraits should reflect the incredible, unique person you’ve become. Whether you’re laid-back, bold, trendy, sporty, or artsy, your outfit choices play a huge role in how your personality shines through in your senior portraits. Not sure where to start? Well, I’m here to help! Here are a few styling tips I have curated over the years to help you look and feel your best for your senior portrait session:

1. Stay True to Your Style

First and foremost—be yourself. Choose outfits that feel like you, not like someone you’re trying to be for the camera. If you’re more comfortable in jeans and sneakers, go for a polished version of that look. Love bold fashion? Don’t be afraid to wear that statement piece. When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows in your confidence and smile.

2. Plan for Variety

I allow 3 outfit changes in my senior portrait sessions. Think of these as your “levels” of style:

              •            Casual: Think denim, comfy sweaters, or your favorite graphic tee.

              •            Dressy: A flowy dress, a button-down with slacks, or something you’d wear for a nice event.

              •            Something Unique: Showcase your passions—maybe a letterman jacket, your dance outfit, band uniform, or a cool vintage look.

3. Keep it Timeless (But Add a Trend)

While it’s tempting to go all-in on what’s trending right now, think about how you’ll feel looking at these photos in 10 years. Try blending timeless pieces—like solid colors, denim, or classic silhouettes—with one trendy accessory, like chunky boots, layered necklaces, or a fun hat. This keeps your look fresh and enduring.

4. Choose Colors That Compliment You

Soft neutrals, earthy tones, and jewel colors tend to photograph beautifully and flatter all skin tones. Avoid neon or busy patterns that might distract from your face. If you’re not sure what works best, test a few looks in natural light ahead of time—or ask  yours truly for input!

5. Don’t Forget the Details

Accessories like hats, layered jewelry, jackets, or scarves can add personality to your look and give you more to work with in your photos. Also, think about your shoes—even if they won’t be in every shot, they absolutely complete an outfit. And be sure and remember: clean nails, neat hair, and a little grooming go a long way in pulling everything together.

6. Coordinate with Your Location

If you’re shooting in a nature setting, soft earth tones and flowy fabrics work beautifully. Urban backdrops call for edgier, modern styles. Your outfits don’t need to match the location, but it helps when the vibe feels cohesive. In fact one of my requests is to see your outfits 1-2 weeks before we shoot, because your outfit selections can have an impact on location selection.

7. Do a Trial Run

This is really important. Try on each outfit ahead of time and take a few mirror selfies or have mom or your bestie snap pictures in natural light. This way, you’ll see how the clothes move, fit, and photograph—and you can make any adjustments before the big day.

Your senior portraits are all about capturing this exciting chapter of your life. With the right styling, you’ll not only look amazing—you’ll feel confident, comfortable, and totally yourself.  Don’t sweat the small stuff though. I will help you to plan the perfect looks. And don’t be afraid to bring your personality to every frame. After all, this is your moment to shine!

I am booking Fall and Spring 2025/26 senior portraits now! Click the link below to schedule your date before time runs out!

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