A complete guide for seniors (and moms) who want to feel confident and look amazing
Senior portraits should feel relaxed, natural, and unmistakably you.
But let’s be honest — deciding what to wear can feel overwhelming.
The good news? You don’t need a brand-new wardrobe. You don’t need to look like an Instagram influencer. And you absolutely don’t need to stress.
This guide will walk you through exactly what works — for both girls and guys — so you feel confident walking into your session.
First: The Most Important Rule
Wear something that feels like you. If you’re constantly adjusting it, pulling at it, or worrying about it — it will show in the photos. Confidence photographs beautifully.
General Guidelines (For Everyone)
1. Stick With Solid Colors
Why?
- They don’t distract from your face.
- They age better.
- They feel more timeless.
Great choices:
- Navy
- Cream
- Olive
- Soft blue
- Burgundy
- Rust
- Forest green
- Soft pastels
- Earth tones
Avoid:
- Large logos
- Neon colors
- Distracting graphics
- Thin stripes (can create visual distortion)
- Super trendy pieces you may regret in 5 years
2. Choose Flattering, Not Trendy
Senior portraits aren’t about what’s trending this month.
They’re about capturing who you are at this moment.
A classic outfit will still look great when it’s hanging on your parents’ wall 20 years from now.
3. Fit Matters More Than Brand
Clothes that fit well look better than designer labels.
- Too tight = constant adjusting
- Too baggy = no shape
- Just right = effortless confidence
If you’re unsure, try it on and move around. Sit. Walk. Laugh. If it stays comfortable — it works.
What To Wear: Senior Girls
Bring 2–3 Outfits:
1) Dressy – A flowy dress, elevated top, or something you’d wear to a nice event.
2) Casual – Jeans and a sweater, shorts and a top, something relaxed.
3) Layered Option – Denim jacket, cardigan, or light layer for variety.
Shoes Matter
You don’t always see them — but they affect posture and confidence.
Bring:
- A comfortable pair
- A dressier option
Jewelry & Accessories
Keep it simple.
- Delicate necklaces photograph beautifully.
- Avoid oversized statement pieces unless that’s very much your style.
- Hair ties on wrists tend to show up — small detail, big difference.
Hair & Makeup
You don’t need heavy makeup.
Natural is best.
If you normally wear makeup — wear it. If you don’t — don’t suddenly start.
The goal is elevated natural, not “stage performance.”
What To Wear: Senior Guys
Guys — this is simpler than you think.
Bring 2 Outfits:
1) Polished Casual
- Button-down shirt
- Henley
- Sweater
- Nice polo
2) Relaxed Look
- Well-fitted t-shirt
- Casual overshirt or flannel
- Light jacket
Pants
- Dark jeans
- Khakis
- Clean, well-fitting casual pants
Avoid:
- Athletic shorts
- Worn sneakers
- Distracting logos
Layers Add Dimension
A simple jacket or overshirt adds depth and gives us variety without a full outfit change.
Should You Include Sports, Band, or Activities?
Absolutely — if it’s meaningful.
Uniforms, instruments, sports gear, color guard flags, fencing masks, marching band drum harness — these tell your story.
We can do:
- A full uniform look
- A subtle nod (letter jacket, instrument case)
- A quick add-on for variety
This part of your life deserves to be documented.
What Moms Want to Know
Let me speak directly to you for a moment.
Your senior doesn’t need to look “perfect.”
They need to look like themselves.
- Timeless colors.
- Good fit.
- Natural expressions.
That’s what makes portraits feel real — and meaningful — years later.
If you’d like, you can text or email outfit options before the session. I’m happy to give feedback. I’d rather help you decide ahead of time than have anyone feel unsure on shoot day.
What Photographs Best Outdoors (Roswell & East Cobb Edition)
Because many sessions are outdoors:
- Earth tones blend beautifully with green spaces.
- Soft neutrals glow at golden hour.
- Avoid bright neon pinks or electric blues in natural settings.
- If we’re shooting downtown or urban, slightly bolder tones can work well.
Final Tip: Bring Options, But Don’t Overthink It
Two to three outfits is perfect.
We’ll move.
We’ll laugh.
We’ll adjust naturally.
You don’t need to know how to pose.
You don’t need to practice smiling in the mirror.
That’s my job.
Your job is to show up feeling comfortable and ready to have a good time.
If you’re still unsure about what to wear, send me a quick message. I’m happy to help you narrow it down.
Let’s make this fun — and create something you’ll be proud to hang on your wall.