Senior Portrait Style Guide: Outfits, Accessories, and Props
Look Your Best, Feel Confident, and Let Your Personality Shine
Your senior year is a huge milestone—one filled with excitement, change, and unforgettable memories. Senior portraits are your chance to capture this moment in time and celebrate who you are right now. One of the most important parts of preparing for your session? What you wear and bring with you!
This Senior Portrait Style Guide will walk you through outfit ideas, accessories, and props to help you look amazing and feel like yourself in front of the camera.
What to Wear: Outfit Tips for Senior Portraits
Choosing the right outfits helps tell your story. Think of your wardrobe as a way to express your personality, style, and interests.
🔹 1. Bring 2–3 Outfit Options
Most sessions allow time for outfit changes. A great combo includes:
One casual outfit (jeans, favorite top, sneakers)
One dressy outfit (dress, button-down, or suit jacket)
One outfit that reflects your personality (team jersey, prom dress, hobby-related)
🔹 2. Choose Clothes That Fit Well
Avoid overly baggy or too-tight clothing. Well-fitting outfits always photograph better and are more flattering on camera.
🔹 3. Stick to Solid Colors or Simple Patterns
Solid colors work best for letting you be the focus. If you love patterns, go for small, subtle ones rather than bold graphics or busy prints.
🔹 4. Layer for Depth and Flexibility
Layering (think jackets, cardigans, scarves) adds variety to your photos without needing a full outfit change. It also adds visual interest.
🔹 5. Coordinate with Your Location
If you’re shooting in nature, earthy tones and soft pastels blend beautifully. For urban settings, you can go bold or modern with blacks, whites, or vibrant color pops.
Shoes Matter Too
Yes, your shoes will show! Choose footwear that matches each outfit. Clean sneakers, dress shoes, boots, or even barefoot (for beach or field shots) are all great options—just make sure they're in good shape and fit the look.
Accessories: The Finishing Touches
Accessories add personality without stealing the spotlight.
For girls: Simple jewelry, scarves, headbands, or hats (used sparingly)
For guys: Watches, bracelets, letterman jackets, or a favorite cap
Glasses: If you wear them daily, wear them in photos! Make sure they’re clean and non-glare if possible.
Keep it minimal and authentic—less is more when it comes to timeless portraits.
Props: Make It Personal
Props can help showcase your hobbies, passions, or plans for the future. Just remember: the best props feel true to you, not forced.
Ideas for Props:
Sports gear (jerseys, basketball, soccer ball, cheer uniform)
Musical instruments
Books or art supplies
Your car or truck
Graduation cap and gown
College gear or acceptance letter
Pets! (With advance notice and proper planning)
Pro tip: If you're unsure whether something will work in photos, bring it anyway! We’ll work together to see what feels right during the shoot.
Bonus Tips for a Great Senior Session
Plan Ahead: Try on outfits a few days before to avoid last-minute stress.
Stay Comfortable: Choose clothing and accessories that feel natural to you—you’ll look and feel more confident.
Avoid Spray Tans & New Hairstyles Right Before: Keep it classic and natural to avoid surprises on camera.
Relax & Have Fun: Your session should feel like a celebration of YOU!
Ready to Capture This Big Moment?
Senior portraits are more than just a yearbook photo—they’re a celebration of your journey and a reflection of your personality. If you’re ready to create portraits that are uniquely you, let’s make it happen.
Book your senior session here or reach out with any questions—I’m here to help you plan every detail!
