Choosing what to wear for your senior photo shoot is a huge decision. If you wear something that isn’t flattering on camera or something that you don’t feel confident in…it can ruin the experience for you!
Spend some time putting together a few outfits that you will want to wear. Prepare a few different looks, but do not wear shirts with a lot of busy patterns or words or sayings. We want your senior pictures to be about you, not a cute or edgy saying. Try each outfit on in its entirety so you know what shoes and/or accessories you will need for each to complete the look you want. Be sure there are no loose buttons, torn hemlines or seams, stains, or holes on your clothing. Be sure to iron out any wrinkles as well.
Here are some of the best ways to choose what to wear:
1. Be COMFORTABLE:
If you don’t like fitted clothing (such as super tight dresses or pieces that fit awkwardly) then leave them at home! If there are pieces in your closet that make you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable, don’t include them in your senior portrait wardrobe! Additionally, we will most likely be sitting on the ground, laying down, walking and doing other things that could be difficult if your clothing is uncomfortable!
2. Be BRIGHT + THINK OUTSIDE OF THE BOX:
When choosing outfits for your senior session, try to choose colors that POP and that compliment your hair + skin colors! Also think about the background that will be in your photos and try to incorporate some colors that will complement each other. Primary colors like red, royal blue and yellow photograph beautifully as well as emerald green, bright purples, pinks, oranges and any other colors that really POP! On the other hand, neutrals and light colors are fantastic as well! Sometimes, color combos that may seem odd in-person end up photographing beautifully on camera!
3. Add LAYERS:
Adding layers to your outfits always looks STUNNING in portraits! A sweater with a flannel underneath paired with a vest + statement necklace or scarf adds so much dimension to your images and makes for super fun posing options! Even in the warmer months (spring + summer) you can add these layers + dimension by wearing a tank top with a cute sheer cardigan or by throwing a denim vest over a dress! Adding layers also means that we can REMOVE layers to create multiple different looks with just one outfit.
4. Play with TEXTURES
Sometimes textures like sequins, furs and sparkles can be considered “daring” or “over the top” but, in portraits, they can work very well! Combining textures that you may not normally use together like sequins + cable knit sweaters or leather + fur make GREAT pairs!
5. Don’t be afraid to ACCESSORIZE:
During a senior session, or any photo shoot, the more the merrier!! When planning your outfits, don’t forget to plan accessories!! Stacks of bangles, long necklaces, statement pieces, scarves, hats, cute shoes or boots, flowers and other add-ons can make an outfit spectacular!
6. MIX it up:
When planning your outfits, be sure to have a VARIETY of looks, such as casual, cozy, dressy, school-related, sports-related, preppy or edgy. I always recommend choosing 2-3 of those categories and finding outfits accordingly. This provides a beautiful array of looks during your senior portrait session, so each outfit looks dramatically different!