Tips for Your Senior Portrait Session
Our #1 Senior Session Tip
Relax and have fun! Seriously!
Don’t worry about posing. We’ll guide you the whole way so you can focus on showing up as yourself.
Below, you’ll also find a few simple tips for hair, outfits, props, and even pets to help you feel fully prepared for your session.
Where Will Your Senior Photos Live?
One of the most helpful things to do before your senior session is picture where these images will live in your real life. Graduation announcements? A wall portrait? An artist book for the grandparents? When we know your end goals, we can photograph with more intention.
Visit our product catalog to spark ideas and start imagining how your senior images could come to life in your home.
Hair, Makeup and Grooming
-
Keep your look true to you
Wear your hair and makeup in a way that feels natural and familiar. Senior photos should still feel like you years from now.
-
Avoid last-minute changes
This applies to facial hair, brows, and hair designs. Maybe skip buzzing a lightning bolt… unless that’s what you really want.
-
Go easy on heavy or trendy makeup
A polished version of your everyday look photographs best. Try to avoid products with heavy sparkle or shimmer.
-
Plan haircuts thoughtfully
Skip brand-new styles right before your session. If you want a refresh, aim for a trim about a week ahead so your hair looks tidy but still natural.
-
Time shaving carefully
Think about when to shave based on the amount of stubble (or clean shave) you want, and leave enough time for your skin to calm down afterward.
-
Reduce shine and refine the details
A light translucent powder, clean nails, moisturized lips, and neat grooming all help create a polished final look.
Senior Picture Clothing Tips
In general, try to avoid clothing with words, stripes and plaids. Solid colors and simple patterns tend to photograph much better.
Bring lots of clothing options! It’s better to have more than we need so we can choose what goes best with each setting.
Avoid wearing clothes that are uncomfortable or that don’t make you feel like a rock star.
Bring something casual and dressy, but also something fun and uniquely you!
Make sure clothes are pressed (if they need it), as wrinkles are harder to retouch.
Wear sleeves, unless you want to show off your muscles.
Avoid wearing mini skirts/short shorts. There are only 1 or 2 poses that flatter these outfits, which can make them very limiting.
-
Meaningful Props
The most successful sessions keep props simple and intentional. Choosing just a few meaningful pieces keeps the focus where it belongs, on your connection and story.
Great prop ideas include:
Instruments or sports gear
Special collectibles or meaningful items
A favorite vehicle
Anything that reflects your family’s real life right nowA few quick tips:
Bring one or two meaningful items rather than a large collection.Choose props you naturally use, and avoid large logos or busy graphics.
Smaller, hand-held items usually photograph best and feel more natural.
If you’re planning to bring something larger, give us a quick heads-up so we can plan your session smoothly.
-
Pets Welcome
We love when furry family members join the session. Pets are part of the story, and we’re always happy to include them when it feels right for your family and is safe to do so.
Helpful tips:
Bring treats if your pet is food motivated. They’re incredibly helpful for getting attention and rewarding cooperation.Pack the basics. Waste bags, water, and a small towel can be surprisingly helpful during your session.
Plan for support. A carrier or extra helper makes it much easier once your pet’s time in photos is finished.
Give them some exercise beforehand. A short walk or play session can help take the edge off their energy.
Bring a simple leash or neutral collar. Busy patterns and bulky harnesses can be distracting in photos.
Don’t worry about perfection. Sometimes the best photos come from candid moments.