The Ultimate Guide to What to Wear for your High School Senior Photography shoot

Jun 16, 2023

Why Planning Your Outfit is Important

For Your Senior Photography Shoot


As the day of your senior portraits approaches, it's important to get ready for the big event. From deciding what to wear to choosing the perfect location, there are plenty of things you'll need to consider when preparing for your photo shoot.

As a high school senior, you want your senior pictures to be a reflection of who you are and how far you've come. With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your senior portraits capture this moment in time perfectly. To help make this happen, here are some tips on what to wear and where to take your senior pictures.

Creating Aesthetic Harmony With Your Outfit

As a high school senior, you want to look your best for your senior pictures. You want to create an aesthetic harmony with your outfits that will be a reflection of your personal style. To help you out, we've put together some great wardrobe tips and outfit ideas for senior pictures that will ensure you look amazing in all of your photos. From colors and patterns to textures and accessories, we'll show you how to create the perfect look!

High school senior guy what to wear to a photo shoot

Tip 1:  Choose Clothing that reflects your personality and style

Clothes are a great way to express your personality and show the world who you are. Whether it’s for a senior picture or just everyday wear, there are plenty of options to choose from that reflect your unique style. From classic looks to modern trends, you can pick out clothes that showcase your personality and make you feel confident in who you are. Whether you choose a suit on the beach or a summer sun dress, all clothing should fit and make you feel great.

high school senior portraits on the beach with outfit suggestions

Tip 2: Pick the outfits based on your photoshoot locations

When it comes to looking your best in pictures, the colors you choose can make a huge difference. Choosing the right colors that suit you best can help you look more vibrant and attractive, and can also bring out your personality in photos.

We recommend you select two to three colors to highlight in your session. These colors should be of a a similar hue and tone and work well with the background. For example, beach portraits look great with blues, white, tans and blacks. The colors in the background should compliment the colors in your outfits. If you are doing an urban senior photo shoot, then you should incorporate more bright, colorful clothing.

urban style high school senior photoshoot in san juan capistrano wearing clothing in the same hue as the background.

Tip 3 Avoid Wearing Bright Patterns & Logos

Wearing bright patterns and logos can be a distraction from the subject. It's best to stick with solid colors to ensure that the focus stays on the person in the photo. Wearing solid colors also helps create a more cohesive look in photos.  By avoiding bright patterns and logos on clothing for pictures, you can make sure that all eyes are on you! Wearing solid colors will also help create a timeless look that won't draw attention away from your face or body shape.

The best outfit to wear for a high school senior photoshoot in a tropical garden.

Tip 4: Plan on a variety of looks for your session


Planning the perfect outfit for your senior pictures can be a daunting task. But with these tips and tricks, you can create a variety of looks that will make you look stunning in your photos. From classic styles to trendy looks, we'll help you find the perfect outfits for your senior pictures. We recommend that you pick 3-4 outfits in similar color schemes to make your entire session the the story of you. 

Some ideas include, one casual look such as jeans and a crop top or casual pants and a nice shirt. For the second look we suggest something a little dressier. This could include a fun sundress for the gals or a t-shirt with a sports coat for the guys. For a third look, we recommend an outfit that truly reflects your style and personality. This outfit can be a little trendy and should help define your “look”. Finally your cap and gown or college gear makes a great bonus outfit for your senior pics.

High school senior photo shoot in Laguna Beach with vintage denim clothing

Tip #5 Don't forget accessories when planning your senior portrait outfit

Accessorizing your outfit for a photo shoot can be a fun and creative way to add an extra layer of personality and style to your look. With the right accessories, you can transform an ordinary outfit into something extraordinary. Whether it’s jewelry, hats, bags or scarves, adding accessories to your look can make all the difference in a photo shoot.    I love a great pair of sneakers in an urban setting or a hat with cool glasses at the beach.  Whatever your style, accessories can finish off your look and make your portrait amazing.

High school senior photo session showing what to wear including a great pair of boots.

Tip # 6 Pockets make for a great posing option


When picking out your favorite articles of clothing, don't forget pockets.  Pockets in a dress or a cool jacket are a great way to pose.  And of course your favorite pair of jeans is always a great choice.


cute high school senior with hands in pocket pose

Get Ready To Shine in your senior photo session


It's time to shine and show off your style for your senior photos! Whether you're looking for beach picture outfits, senior pic outfits guys, or just some general senior photo outfit ideas - we've got you covered. With the right outfit, you can make sure your senior pics turn out perfect and capture all of the best moments from this special time in your life.

senior picture outfits guys in San Juan Capistrano at the train track
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