Style + Prep Guide

Senior Edition

Dressing for your photo session can be overwhelming and the most stressful part of the photo process. So, it probably isn’t all that surprising the most asked question I get is “What should we wear?” Have no fear! I’ve compiled my tips and suggestions I’ve learned from photographing every type of outfit you can imagine. I’ve also compiled my knowledge from years working in front of the camera as a TV news reporter and anchor. I’ve found what works, what doesn’t and what really takes you and your engagement or couples photos to the next level.

 
 

Bringing it all together…

  • Shoes. I am biased, but shoes can really take an outfit to the next level. Keep in mind our location, though. A stiletto hell is gonna sink into the dirt if we are out in a field or even in grass. You’ll have a helluva time walking and doing prompts during the session if your heel keeps sinking in the ground. Try a wedged shoe instead or bring another pair of sandals or flats to change into for shots where we won’t see your shoe as much.

  • Shoes matter for guys, too. While your shoes won’t be visible in all the photos, keep in mind shoes should match the aesthetic of your outfit.

  • Take the season into consideration and choose colors that compliment the scenery. Summer will be full of shades of green from the trees to the grasses. If you go with something in the green family, don’t go with a solid top or dress. You’ll be lost in the background and won’t “pop” because you’re the same color as most of your surroundings.

  • Layers & textured or detailed fabrics bring more interest and dimension. Think lace, embroidery, chiffon, corduroy, flannel etc…

  • Patterns help break up outfits. Don’t be scared to add an outfit with pattern into the mix!

  • When choosing colors, keep the color wheel in mind. I know, I am making you go way back to sixth grade art class, but complimentary colors are so appealing to the eye.

  • Another color wheel option is to choose the same color in a different tone, tint or shade.

Keep on scrolling for more recommendations

Be You.

  • You read that right: do not choose clothes that aren’t authentically you. Showcasing who you are is the purpose of a senior session! Wearing clothing you aren’t comfortable in or doesn’t reflect you defeats the purpose of this photo shoot.

  • Make sure you feel confident in the outfits you choose. If you don’t feel good or are self conscious about something with your clothes, it will convey into your photographs.

  • So, let’s talk colors! Neutrals are always a great place to start when you’re stuck. Gray, cream, brown, denim/chambray — they’re all great to build from.

  • Earth tones, jewel tones and muted colors work very well with my editing style and location choices.

  • I LOVE the way flowy dresses photograph. It brings movement to photos and also is a beautiful feminine touch. Check out the photo below of the senior twirling. She has on a beautiful patterned dress and the movement brings fun to the photo, reflecting her bubbly and fun personality!

  • So, dresses aren’t really your jam. No worries! You do you! Just remember fit is important. If you wear a fitted top, wearing tight pants may not photograph flattering. Try one or other — a tight top with flare or mom jeans or a flowy top with skinny or tight fitted pants with a flare bottom.

  • Accessories polish off an outfit. Jewelry is an easy way to add a little “umph” or pop to your wardrobe. Hats, scarves, watches, an antique hair accessory, belts, bracelets… are all examples of accessories that can pull an outfit together and add a bit more detail to give dimension to the photograph.

Show Off What Makes You Who You Are.

Include your favorites!

Make your senior photos more than just “being in front of the camera and smiling”. Let’s show off who you are — what makes you happy? what do you spend your free time enjoying? what do you treasure? is there anything you have adored or loved since childhood that would be special to include in some photos?

These things don’t have to overpower you session, it can be just a photo or two. But, including something that is apart of you amplifies your voice in your photos.

Wardrobe Items to Avoid…

  • Neon colors. Steer clear of them. Neon will color cast on your skin.

  • Small lines. Think pinstripe lines. Those close together, thin lines don’t photograph well and almost appear in photos like they are dancing. It doesn’t look well on a computer screen and it prints funky.

  • Anything that makes you self conscious or uncomfortable. It’ll show in photos & it’s best to go with clothing everyone feels good in.

Where to look…

  • Your favorite place to get clothes

  • Rylee + Cru

  • Abercrombie + Fitch

  • Altar’d State

  • Free People

  • Zara

  • bohme

  • Mango

  • Vici Collection

  • H&M

  • Joyfolie

  • Piper and Scoot

  • Cider

  • Three Bird Nest

  • Amazon