Outfit Planning for your Senior Session


What you wear plays a huge part in how your senior pictures look, and it can be a bit of a struggle to decide what to wear! There are a lot of options, so I want to help you narrow it down and give you some ideas.


For a two hour senior session, I recommend 4 outfits and 3-4 locations. We match up 1 outfit to each location so we get around 25 minutes with each one. You can choose less or more, but I think this is the perfect amount to get the most variety out of your session without wasting too much time changing outfits or switching locations.

Things to Keep in Mind


There are a few things I want you to keep in mind about this guide and your senior session outfits:


  1. Your session is about YOU. The whole point is to capture who you are right now, in your senior year, before you move on to your next chapter. This means the most important factor in your outfits is YOU - how comfortable you feel in them, if you like how they look on you, and if they really express you and your preferences.
  2. Choose comfort. We will be moving around a LOT in our session, so it's important that you are able to sit, stand, walk, lean, and maybe even dance in your outfits. Don't choose pieces that are too tight or cause discomfort. If you feel uncomfortable in your photos, you will look uncomfortable, and I know you don't want that.
  3. Create variety. To make the most out of our session, try to make sure your outfits are different enough from each other to have some contrast between your photos. Of course, the poses, angles, and location changes will help with that, but the outfits you choose can make a big difference. You might even want to think about switching up your hair or jewelry between outfits for a little something extra!
  4. Plan ahead. Plan your outfits alongside the locations where we're shooting. I typically do 1 outfit per location to get the most variety in your gallery, so think about which outfit you'd like to wear at which venue. Consider the colors and vibe of each location and outfit. I go into more detail about that in the outfit suggestions below, but I'm always happy to give you personalized guidance if you need more help!


The outfits below are just suggestions, and are in no way mandatory! I can't wait to see what you pick!

Outfit 1: Simple Sundress


A solid-colored sundress pairs PERFECTLY with a floral backdrop, like a park or botanical garden. I love to start with these types of outfits because they're comfortable and easy to move in. Any length dress works but I LOVE a midi or maxi dress for an adorable little "frolicking through the flowers" moment. Another option is a maxi skirt like Finley's outfit below!

I love that Megan wore her cowboy boots for a little extra personality! Remember to switch up shoes & accessories between outfits to add interest to your gallery.

Outfit 2: Fancier Dress or Jumpsuit


This outfit works really well for a more city vibe, such as in front of a beautiful building or on stone steps like those in Amie's photo below. A simple pattern, bold color, or shimmery texture looks amazing! You could even rewear a dress from prom or homecoming - long, flowy skirts create incredible movement in your photos!

Amie's blue dress is from Zara and is a perfect choice! I love the shiny texture of the satin.

Outfit 3: Casual & Fun


For a little more casual take, you can choose something that really reflects your personal day-to-day style. I love to pair these outfits with an urban location like I did with Amie's shoot at the Boylan Bridge in Downtown Raleigh. Jeans are a great option, but fun pants or a romper would also be adorable for this outfit type.

Outfit 4: Your College T-Shirt


This is a must if you're using your photos for graduation announcements! If you know where you're going to college, grab a T-shirt from the bookstore and pair it with your favorite jeans or shorts to celebrate where you're headed! We usually don't need to spend as much time on this outfit and it's easy to do it as an add-on - if you're already bringing a casual outfit, just throw your T-shirt on top!

Outfit 5: Cap & Gown


Cap & gown pics are SO fun to add to your senior shoot! I sometimes offer them as a separate mini session at the end of the school year, but if you have your cap & gown already by the time your session rolls around, bring them along!


Many senior girls choose to wear a classic white dress with their cap and gown, but it's definitely not the only option! Always keep in mind the color of your gown and how it will go with your outfit. Neutrals are the easiest choice for these photos.

Outfit 6: Your Sport or Hobby


If you play a sport, an instrument, are involved in any clubs, or have a hobby you want to showcase, I'd love to show it off in your senior photos! You don't have to wear your uniform if you don't want to, but I always welcome props, as they really show your interests and let the real you shine through in your photos.

I hope this helped you choose your outfits for your senior session! If you're ready to book, head over to my booking page to choose your package and time slot. If you have any questions, or you'd like to see my full senior welcome guide with allll the info, feel free to reach out via my contact form! I can't wait to shoot with you!!