What To Wear For Your Senior Portraits
5 Tips For Looking And Feeling Your Best
Senior year is approaching—a final chapter filled with memories in the making, important decisions and the excitement of stepping into your future. But before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s take a moment to celebrate this life milestone. Your senior portraits are an opportunity to capture who you are right now—and let’s be honest, what you wear can make a big difference!
Whether you're a soon-to-be senior getting ready for your close-up or a parent helping your teen prepare, these five tips will help you put together outfits that look amazing on camera and reflect your unique personality.
1. Dress To Impress: Aim For Business Casual Or Higher
You don’t need to show up in a tux or ball gown—unless that’s your style (in which case, go for it!). But senior portraits are your opportunity to step it up a notch. Dresses, skirts, a nice pair of jeans, slacks, blouses, collared shirts or even a simple, solid-colored tank or tee can all photograph beautifully. Focus on choosing outfits that bring out the best version of you.
2. Don’t Be Afraid Of Bold Colors
A common tip for family portraits is to stick to neutral tones because it makes coordinating with a group easier—but your senior photos are all about you! Bold, vibrant colors can help you stand out from your background and add a fun, confident energy to your images.
3. Avoid Distracting Patterns Or Big Logos
As fun as they may be in everyday life, super busy patterns or large logos can be very distracting when photographed. But don’t worry—solid colors aren’t your only option! Simple patterns like stripes, gingham or soft florals can work really well, especially when they are made up of just two or three colors max. Plus, choosing simple patterns will give your photos a timeless feel. Overall, the key is to keep the focus on you—not on a giant brand name across your shirt.
4. Consider Your Location And The Season
Let’s start with the season your senior portraits are scheduled for. In most cases, it’s best to dress seasonally—not just for style, but for comfort. It might seem obvious, but you don’t want to be sweating through your thick cable-knit sweater in the August heat or turning purple in a short skirt during the dead of winter. The more comfortable you are, the more confident and natural you'll look in your photos!
Next, consider the location you’ve chosen. Are we shooting in a wildflower field, a downtown urban setting or along the beach? Sometimes, your session might include more than one spot—and if that’s the case, it’s a good idea to plan your outfit changes accordingly. There aren’t any strict rules for choosing clothes that complement your surroundings, but here are a few helpful things to keep in mind…
If your location features mostly neutral tones—like a sandy beach, snowy landscape or urban backdrop—this is a great opportunity to play with bold pops of color! This works the other way around too—if your backdrop is already bright and bold, like spring blossoms, fall foliage or colorful urban murals, consider opting for softer pastels or simple solid colors.
Complementary colors! I know not all of us went to art school, so this might sound foreign—but let me explain. Complementary colors are pairs that sit opposite each other on the color wheel, and they naturally make each other pop. For example, if your location is full of lush greenery, you’ll really stand out in shades of red or pink. Shooting at sunset to capture that golden glow? Try deep purples or fuchsia to create contrast. Walking along Big Blue (aka Lake Michigan)? Warm tones like yellow or orange will balance the cool blues perfectly.
5. Stay True To YOU (Props Welcome!)
Above all, your senior portraits should feel like you. Don’t be afraid to bring along items that show off your interests, hobbies or future plans. Some ideas include...
Add personality with accessories like a fun hat, jacket or statement shoes.
Bring your sports jersey or gear (football jersey, baseball bat, dance slippers, track shoes—you name it!)
Are you a car enthusiast? Let’s grab a few shots with your ride!
Planning to attend a specific college? Bring a sweatshirt or pennant for a couple of shots.
These personal touches can make your session feel more meaningful and unique.
Senior portraits are meant to capture who you are as this chapter comes to a close, and what you wear plays a big part in making them special. Keep it polished, comfortable, and—most importantly—true to you. If you’re still unsure what to wear, I’m always happy to chat and help you plan the perfect look!
Ready to book your senior session? Contact me here and let’s start planning something one of a kind together!