What Should I Wear For My Senior Photos?

It’s finally here! Your senior year. Your photo session is just one highlight of the incredible year that lies ahead of you. Let’s make the most of it and ensure you have images you can be proud of for years to come! Here are a few key things to keep in mind when preparing for your photoshoot:

Senior Photo Shoot Outfit Tips

Make friends with an iron. I know…sounds super old fashioned but this step is crucial to ensure your images look amazing! Make sure everything (even jeans and sweatshirts) are ironed or steamed and hung up. (I know this isn’t clothing selection but it’s a crucial step and a consistent message you’ll hear from me).

Fit your style to your location. Keep the locations you'll be going to in mind. If you’re heading to DT Minneapolis, consider a city vibe (women — jeans with heels and something fancier than you’d usually wear, men — a stylish shirt with upscale jeans and stylish shoes). Field of grass? What about a dress and straw hat that creates a casual, monochromatic feel? A lake or stream? Do you want to wade in and get the ends of your jeans a little wet or wear a cool dress?

Be stylish and timeless vs. super trendy. The fashion industry changes quickly so be careful about picking something that is too trendy. You don’t want your images to look dated by the end of your senior year.

Dress up! Don’t be afraid to step out of your usual box of joggers and a t-shirt! This is your time to shine!

But, keep it simple. Simple, solid colors or largish patterns can pop against a neutral background. However, avoid logos. Do you really want a big word emblazoned on your chest for years to come (this falls into the be stylish and timeless tip)?

Accessorize. Finish off your look with interesting jewelry, a hat, or something that expresses who you are (instrument, truck, shotgun, etc). A statement necklace can make a ho-hum top sing. A hat can add a fun twist and create a brand new look for your portfolio of images. Pile on bangle bracelets or add in an interesting ring.

Consider long sleeves. This is especially important for portraits that will be waist up and if you are subconscious of your arms. This is less important for full-length poses.

Bring high heels. Consider heels if you'll be wearing a dress. Heels will elongate and tone your legs and make your image more graceful and elegant. Also, please consider wearing panty hoes as they smooth the legs (I know this sounds old fashion like ironing. I haven’t worn panty hoes in nearly two decades, but it will help your photos look more polished).

Wearing black or something dark (navy or charcoal). If you are concerned about a belly, hips, thighs, etc. this can help create a slimming effect.

Make sure clothing fits comfortably and correctly. Baggy shirts and pants look sloppy and add weight. They can also make you look like you’re drowning if you have a petite frame. Pants and shirts that are too tight can prevent you from posing comfortably and create an awkward appearance in your photos. Also, pants that are too tight in the waist can cause skin rolls and bulging.

Other Apparel Considerations:

Small patterns. Small weave patterns (plaid, herringbone, a darker weave through a lighter color) can cause a moire pattern. This is when the garment looks like it’s psychedelic. The camera just can’t figure out what to do. Consider solid colors or larger patterns. If you aren’t sure, please call. Or, if in doubt find something else.

Undergarments. Wear a skin-toned bra. White bras can reflect light and show through clothing while black may seep through a lighter top. Underwear should be seamless and skin-toned as well to prevent lines from appearing through pants or slacks (do we call them slacks anymore?). If you are wearing something strapless please wear a strapless bra!

Socks. Socks! Yes, socks (this really relates to men). Be sure to bring dark colored ones. Or, perhaps you want these to serve as a pop of cool color in a photo. Just avoid white with dark pants, especially if wearing a suit.

A little prep and front end planning can ensure you’ll enjoy your images for decades to come. Have a great senior year!