We are headed into senior portrait season and one of the questions I get asked most often by my seniors before their session is “What should I wear?”
A senior portrait session is special, not only to the senior but to the family as well. This year with a global pandemic I found out just how important the portraits that I took in the late summer and early fall were to the Class of 2020 and their families. These photos not only ended up in yearbooks, or on display in their home… some of the even ended up on yard signs!
Take a deep breath, I have a few tips and tricks to make selecting these outfits a bit easier.
Tip #1… Pick 3 Outfits
Something classic, something with style, and something that represents you.
Ladies:
Classic & Timeless:
Good ideas include: black or navy top with white pants, solid top and jeans, or a simple dress. Avoid: looking too casual (sweatpants for example), lots of prints, and graphic logo tees. You want to avoid bra straps from showing.
Something With Style:
This is an opportunity to get a bit dressier but show your personality and your style. You can add to an outfit you have, by adding accessories such as statement jewelry to make it a bit more polished or switch your outfit up completely. What style do you love to wear Artsy, Boho, Trendy, Sporty etc. This is your chance to show your personality.
Something That Represents You:
This is the opportunity wear whatever you want that represents you. If you play a sport you could wear your uniform, your cheerleading sneakers, bring equipment like your softball bat, or your dance shoes. Play an instrument? Bring it along. Have you already been accepted to a college or university? Bring along a shirt or sweatshirt with the name.
Bring a couple of pairs of shoes and socks (if needed) to coordinate with your outfits… sandals, flip flops, boots, sneakers, ballet flats.
Gentleman:
Classic & Timeless:
Good ideas include: A button up and jeans, polo and shorts, casual tee shirt and jeans and/or shorts, and solid colors. Avoid: t shirts with graphics and logos.
Something With Style:
This is an opportunity to get a bit dressier but show your personality and your style. You can add to an outfit you have, like throw on a tie or a blazer to make it a bit more polished or switch your outfit up completely.
Something That Represents You:
This is the opportunity wear whatever you want that represents you. If you play a sport you could wear your uniform, bring equipment, or a letterman jacket. Play an instrument? Bring it along. Have you already been accepted to a college or university? Bring along a shirt or sweatshirt with the name.
Bring a couple pairs of shoes and socks (if needed) to coordinate with your outfits… sandals, flip flops, boat shoes, sneakers, dress shoes if applicable.
Tip #2… Dress from head to toe.
Plan your entire outfit… from your head to your toes. True story, I once had a senior show up in their worst flip flops for their session. They totally forgot to pack shoes, luckily mom was the same size and we snagged her cute sandals and got some great photos. If you want to add accessories, or need special undergarmets for your outfit include them, that way when you come for your session you are prepared. You will want to take some time to put your outfits together. I have a changing pop up tent so that you can change in private and get yourself ready for your next look. The more orgazined you are the smoother your changes will go and the more relaxed you will feel. Iron your clothes and hang them on a hanger. If you have a special watch, or a necklace for one of your looks hang a bag with your accessories inside for easy access.
Shoes should be clean and presentable. Makeup should be simple. Clothes should be ironed and well fit (avoid clothes that are too tight, or too large.)
Tip #3… Be you…
There is only one you, so bring your favorites with you to show your personality in your senior portraits. If you are a dancer bring one of your costumes and shoes, If you play a sport bring your jersey and a piece of your equipment, play an instrument bring it along. We can incorporate some of your favorite things into your photos to truly reflect you. Relax and have fun, this is your time. I can’t wait to see you soon for your Senior Portrait Session