Plan Ahead

Before your session, we’ll schedule a pre-shoot consultation so you’ll know exactly what to expect. This is where we’ll define your style, choose outfits, and decide whether you’d prefer a studio or outdoor session. We’ll also talk about the overall vibe you’re going for to ensure your photos truly reflect you.

For outdoor sessions, we typically recommend scheduling your shoot within an hour or so of sunset for that beautiful golden-hour glow. If you’re more of a morning person, we can also plan a sunrise session for soft, dreamy lighting.

A little tip—if your shoot is close to dinnertime, be sure to have a light snack beforehand to keep your energy up. Feeling prepared and knowing what to expect will make your session relaxed, fun, and stress-free.

And don’t forget—if your school has specific yearbook photo requirements, send me the specs before our shoot so we can make sure your portraits meet their guidelines!

What To Wear

For Senior Girls

The best way to showcase your individual style is by wearing clothing you already love and feel great in. If you want to buy something new for your session, go for it! Just keep in mind that brand-new outfits can sometimes be unpredictable—something might not fit quite right or feel as comfortable as you hoped on the day of your shoot.

The perfect outfit is one that makes you feel confident and beautiful. If that means a favorite dress, go-to shirt, or well-loved jeans, then embrace it!

For a timeless, elegant look, consider a long, flowing dress or skirt. These not only look stunning on camera but also add a sense of movement to your photos. The soft, natural flow of fabric creates a dreamy effect, adds dimension to walking shots, and brings a touch of magic—especially when paired with a beautiful outdoor setting. And let’s not forget the all-important twirl factor!

For Senior Guys

A well-tailored suit is the ultimate confidence booster—there’s just nothing sharper. Whether you want to go all-in with a full suit is entirely up to you, but we always recommend bringing at least one polished, more formal outfit. Button-up shirts and dress pants photograph beautifully, enhancing the male frame with a sleek, sophisticated look. A long-sleeve button-up in a classic shade like white, blue, or black is a timeless choice that works well in any setting, giving you a clean, put-together style. Adding a blazer or sport coat can elevate the look even further, adding depth and structure to your portraits.

For a modern and stylish touch, consider layering your button-up with a lightweight sweater, or rolling up the sleeves for a more relaxed yet refined feel. Accessories like a sleek watch, a pocket square, or even a well-chosen tie can add an extra level of personality without feeling overly formal.

If you prefer something more laid-back, a pair of well-fitted jeans paired with a crisp white T-shirt under your letterman jacket is an effortlessly cool and classic look. It never goes out of style and strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and refined, making for great, natural portraits. Throw on a leather or denim jacket for a little edge, or opt for a casual button-up left unbuttoned over a T-shirt for a stylish, layered look.

Ultimately, your outfit should reflect your personality and make you feel your best. Confidence is the key to a great photo, and when you feel good in what you’re wearing, it will shine through in every shot.

Stay True To Your Style

In addition to a more formal look, be sure to include an outfit that truly reflects your personal style—something that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Your favorite pair of jeans with a stylish blouse, a cool and cozy T-shirt, a chic jumpsuit, or a trendy two-piece set are all great options. If you love it and feel amazing in it, wear it!

That said, we recommend avoiding graphic tees and neon colors, as they don’t photograph well and can look dated over time. Choosing timeless, flattering pieces will ensure your photos remain beautiful and classic for years to come.

Don’t forget the importance of shoes! Footwear also plays a key role in tying your outfit together, serving as the finishing touch that can elevate your entire look. For formal outfits, classic dress shoes, polished boots, or sleek oxfords add a sense of sophistication and refinement. If you're opting for a semi-formal vibe, consider stylish Chelsea boots or leather loafers for a polished yet modern aesthetic.

For casual outfits, clean white sneakers offer a fresh, timeless look, while suede or canvas sneakers can bring a more relaxed, effortless style. Loafers and boat shoes also work well for a laid-back yet put-together feel. Avoid overly worn or bulky shoes that can distract from the overall aesthetic of your outfit.

No matter the style, make sure your footwear is clean and in good condition—it’s a subtle detail that can make a big impact in your photos. And if you're shooting outdoors, consider the terrain and comfort level, ensuring your shoes are both stylish and practical for the setting.

Add Some Variety

Most people have more than one style, and your outfit choices should reflect that. To add variety to your portraits, we recommend bringing both a casual outfit—like jeans and a T-shirt—and a more formal look, such as a dress or a suit jacket. This will ensure your photos don’t all look the same and give you a great mix of images to choose from.

Feel free to bring meaningful items that showcase your journey, like your letter jacket, cap and gown, or a college-themed prop—a T-shirt, banner, or sweatshirt are all great choices. If you’ve been involved in sports, consider bringing memorabilia to highlight those achievements.

And if a family member has come along for support, they’re more than welcome to jump in for a few special memory shots during your session!

What About the Weather?

If it’s chilly outside, be sure to bring a warm, long coat to wear between shots so you stay comfortable. But don’t stop there—accessories are a great way to add variety and personality to your photos! Think cozy scarves, stylish hats, knee-high boots, or layered sweaters and vests. These little touches add texture, depth, and visual interest, making your portraits even more dynamic.

Layering isn’t just about staying warm—it also allows you to mix and match throughout your session. Consider starting with a sleek base outfit and adding a jacket or a chunky knit scarf for a different vibe in some shots. Playing with textures like wool, denim, leather, or even faux fur can create a polished, high-end look.

And don’t forget your hands. A pair of elegant gloves or a warm mug of coffee or cocoa can add a cozy, candid feel to your winter shoot. The little details matter, and they can turn a great portrait into something truly special.

Relax & Have Fun!

These photos will capture an exciting milestone in your life, and the experience of taking them should be just as enjoyable as the final images. When you're having fun and feeling confident, that energy will shine through in your photos.

It’s easy to feel pressure to make everything perfect, but the truth is, there’s only a handful of things in your control—and the rest is up to me. As your photographer, we’ll take care of the details, from lighting and posing to finding the best angles that highlight you. The most stunning photos happen when you’re relaxed, happy, and truly in the moment.

All you need to do is get a good night’s sleep before your session, choose outfits that make you feel amazing, and bring your authentic, wonderful self. We’ll handle the rest—and we’ll have a blast doing it!