Thoughtful tips to help you feel confident, prepared, and beautifully you.
Your senior portraits are a celebration of everything you've accomplished — and everything ahead. Whether you're excited, nervous, or a mix of both, this guide will help you prepare so you can walk into your session feeling confident, relaxed, and ready to shine.
What to Expect
Your session will be relaxed, fun, and completely focused on you. I'll guide you through flattering poses, gentle movement, and natural expressions — no modeling experience needed. Think of it like hanging out with a friend, just with beautiful lighting and a camera in hand.
We’ll work together to create images that feel timeless, genuine, and completely your own.
Choose Outfits You Love
Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. If you’re adjusting your top or worrying about your jeans every few minutes, it’ll show.
Dresses, skirts, or jumpsuits with movement always photograph beautifully. A nice top with jeans or pants can be elevated with the right shoes and accessories.
For guys: button-ups, Henleys, chinos, and clean sneakers or boots are great go-to’s!
**Try everything on in advance** — take a photo in natural light to see how it looks on camera. If you love it in the photo, you’ll probably love it in your gallery too.
Bring Variety
I recommend choosing 2–3 outfits:
* One dressy or whimsical
* One casual but polished
* One that just feels like “you”
If you have your cap and gown, bring it along!
Pro Tip: Want your senior session to reflect your unique style? Consider creating and sharing a Pinterest board with your favorite senior photo inspiration! This helps me get a clear feel for your vibe, preferences, and the overall aesthetic you love—so we can make your session truly you.
Keep It Timeless
Avoid large logos, distracting patterns, or trendy graphics. These can date your photos and pull focus away from you. Instead, go for:
* Solids or subtle prints
* Soft, earthy, or neutral tones
* Classic details like lace, buttons, or soft textures
Hair & Makeup Tips
You don’t need professional hair and makeup (unless you want to!) — just aim for your natural look, slightly elevated.
* Style your hair in a way that feels like you, but a little more polished (curls, waves, or straightened are all great)
* Keep makeup soft and natural — focus on even skin tone, defined lashes, and a little color on the lips
* Avoid heavy glitter or overly dramatic contouring
* Guys: consider a quick trim a few days before and moisturize your skin that morning
✦ If you’re doing any grooming (haircuts, brows, tanning), do it **at least 3–5 days before** your session. Please be mindful of that if you do tan in advance of the session, it may be impossible to edit out tan lines! Please avoid using spray tan within 24–48 hours before the photo shoot to ensure the most natural and even skin tone on camera. Fresh spray tans can sometimes appear uneven or overly warm in photos.
Accessories & Final Touches
✦ Accessories
Keep it simple and classic. A dainty necklace, gold hoops, or a layered scarf can add just the right touch of personality.
✦ Shoes
Shoes matter — make sure they’re clean and match your outfit. Boots, loafers, sandals, or dressy sneakers are all great options. Avoid worn-out athletic shoes unless it’s part of your story (sports, etc.).
✦ Undergarments
Make sure bra straps are hidden and choose nude, seamless options when possible — especially under light or fitted clothing.
What to Bring
* All your outfit pieces (ironed/steamed and on hangers, if possible)
* Backup accessories (earrings, jewelry, belt, scarf)
* Touch-up items: brush, makeup, lip balm, blotting papers
* Water & a snack if you’ll be out for a while
* Comfortable shoes to walk in between locations
* A parent or friend (if you’d like some support — optional!)
The Day Before
* Get a good night’s sleep
* Drink plenty of water
* Double-check your outfits
* Avoid tanning outdoors or in a tanning bed Also avoid using spray tan within 24–48 hours before the photo shoot to ensure the most natural and even skin tone on camera. Fresh spray tans can sometimes appear uneven or overly warm in photos.
* Trim or clean nails — neutral polish or bare is best
*Think of a funny memory or inside joke in mind—it really helps bring out those real smiles! Don't worry, I won't ask you to share what it is!
Day of the Session
* Eat something before your session — you'll feel more comfortable and energized
* Arrive on time with your outfits and everything packed
* Come ready to relax, laugh, and have fun — I’ll guide you the whole way
* Don’t worry about knowing how to pose — that’s my job!
Final Thoughts
This session is about *you* — your personality, your style, and your story. You don’t have to be anyone else or try to “get it right.” If you show up as yourself, the rest will fall into place.
If you ever feel unsure or want help choosing outfits, I’m here to help! Just reach out and we’ll talk through your ideas together.
