What to Wear to Your Senior Session
Your senior year is full of milestone moments! Late-night study sessions, final pep rallies, and plans for the future. But one of the most exciting moments of all? Your senior session.✨ This is your chance to celebrate who you are right now, freeze this chapter in time, and create photos that feel like you.
As a photographer, one of the most common questions I get is:
“Kenzie… what should I wear to my senior session?”
Clothing matters more than most people realize. Your outfit affects the vibe, colors, confidence, and storytelling behind your images. The good news? I’ve photographed enough seniors to know exactly what works beautifully!
Here’s your complete guide to choosing the perfect outfits for your senior session!
1. Start With Outfits That Feel Like YOU
Your photos should reflect your personality, not Pinterest’s personality. When picking outfits, ask yourself:
- What colors or styles do I reach for the most?
- Do I love casual, elevated, trendy, or classic looks?
- What makes me feel confident the moment I put it on?
Comfort equals confidence, and confidence shows in every photo. If you’re tugging, adjusting, or second-guessing your outfit, it will distract you during the session. Choose looks that let you move, relax, and feel amazing.
2. Your Color Palette
Some colors photograph better than others!
Best color choices for seniors:
- Neutrals: beige, white, cream, tan, gray
- Earth tones: olive, rust, terracotta, green
- Soft pastels: blush pink, lavender, light blue
Colors to be cautious with:
- Neon (reflects color onto skin)
- Super bright red/orange (can overpower the image)
- Busy patterns (can distract from your face)
If we’re shooting in a nature location, earth tones and soft colors blend beautifully. If your session is maybe in a city, neutrals look incredible.
3. Texture > Patterns (Every Time)
When choosing tops and dresses, lean into texture, not wild patterns!
Textures that photograph amazingly:
- Linen
- Ribbed knit
- Lace
- Cotton
- Denim
- Corduroy
4. Dress for Your Location
Your senior session location helps determine your best outfit options.
If we’re shooting in nature…
Flowy dresses, soft colors, denim, and earth tones are perfect.
If we’re shooting downtown…
Trendy looks, neutral palettes, boots, leather jackets, or monochromatic outfits look incredible.
If your session is on the beach…
Whites, creams, soft pinks, denim shorts, barefoot looks, and loose fabrics photograph beautifully.
Tell me your location ideas ahead of time, and I’m happy to help match your outfits to the environment!
5. Shoes Matter More Than You Think
Your shoes will show in several photos especially walking shots, sitting poses, or full body portraits.
Choose shoes that:
- Match your outfit
- Are comfortable enough to walk in
- Don’t steal the attention (unless they’re intentionally bold)
Pro tip: Bring a comfy pair of sandals or slides for walking between locations.
6. Prep Your Clothing Before the Session
A little prep goes a long way!
Before the session:
- Steam or iron your outfits
- Remove tags or stickers
- Bring a lint roller
- Pack outfits on hangers
- Keep shoes clean
7. When In Doubt, Ask Me!
I’m always here to help you choose outfits that photograph beautifully. If you’re stuck between outfits, text me pictures!! I’ll help you narrow it down, match them to locations, and create a cohesive look for your session.
Your senior session is all about celebrating who you are right now. The best outfits are the ones that make you feel confident, comfortable, and authentically you. With the right clothes, we’ll create images that feel timeless and true to this amazing season of your life.
