What to Wear for Senior Photos // Senior Photo Outfit Guide // Dallas, Texas Senior Photographer //

Bring an outfit change! (but maybe no more than one!)

I always recommend bringing one casual and one fancy outfit, that way you have some variety! But too many outfits can cut into your photo taking time and create a gallery that’s all over the place. So for an hour session, stick with two outfits!

Try on each outfit with your cap and gown!

Listen. No one looks great in a cap and gown. It is a polyester trash bag and a hat that makes you look like Dracula. So have realistic expectations. But we gotta take a least one photo with your cap and gown, so try it on with both outfits and see what looks best! *proof that you can look cute in a cap and gown* 

Coordinate your outfit colors to your sash

Once we get photos with your cap and gown, we’ll likely just utilize your sash for the rest of the outfits. So make sure the colors don’t clash. The easiest color? White! It makes your sash pop!

Pick a color scheme

I recommend choosing a color scheme for all your outfits. Now your graduation announcements will look cohesive and uniform. Some of my favorite color combos? Orange + blue, mustard + navy/grey, blush + black. Jewel tones always photograph wonderfully (emeralds, deep reds, mustards)

Consider your location when choosing your color scheme

Location will play a huge part on which colors you should choose! If your location is green and lush, you want a color that pops against the foliage. Try a mustard, orange or vibrant blue. If your location is a busy city scape, go classic with black and white or a bright red!

Stick with one color for large groups

If you are taking photos with a big group, stick with one color (especially if y’all are wearing different color sashes!!) This ensures you all look cohesive but also that one person doesn’t draw more attention than others. I love a classic white because everyone looks good in it and it makes your sashes really stand out!

Don't go too trendy! 

While I am all for wearing my gauchos 24/7 I probably wouldn’t wear them to my session. You want to look back on your images in 5 years and think “dang I look hot” and not “what the heck was I wearing??” Keep your silhouettes classic but with a modern twist. If you want to experiment with something fun and bold, go for fun shoes!

Dress for the terrain

If you choose a location with a lot of hiking, you definitely want to make sure you’re wearing comfortable enough shoes and a clothes that don’t drag. The biggest enemy to stilettos is the outdoors, so if you don’t want to be sinking into the ground constantly consider a chunky heel or wedge. I always recommend walking around in your shoes for at least 20 minutes before your session. Nothing ruins a good mood like uncomfy shoes.

Get personal!

This is a great opportunity to show off your culture or family history. Personal elements like a sari or your moms leather jacket help tell your story. (And your family will love it!)

Show of your extracurricular actives

Bring your letterman jacket or wear your dance uniform for a few of your photos. This might be the last time you’ll get to wear or use these items– so let’s document them! It’s a great way to show off your personality and you’ll love looking back on those photos years from now.

Get your hair and makeup done!

Because why not?? Keep your look simple and don’t deviate too far from your normal look. You still want to look like yourself!

Keep it simple!

This especially applies to jewelry and prints, anything too large or colorful will draw attention away from you. Keep your prints classic or small. And for jewelry go with dainty pieces near your face.

Bring a prop!

This could be confetti (but keep it eco-friendly, there’s lots of biodegradable options!), champagne (if you’re over 21), balloons, your musical instrument, the options are endless! Not only will it add a personal touch to your images, it will also give you something to do so you don’t feel as awkward in front of the camera!

Bring a buddy!

Senior photoshoots are so fun with your best friend or friend group! Just make sure you talk with your photographer beforehand because usually there will be an added fee for a second person!

If you'd like more outfit inspiration take a look at my Pinterest HERE!

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Leah Goetzel Photography is a Dallas based senior portrait photographer creating fun, bright and authentic photos. If you'd like to learn more you can send us a message HERE. And if you're ready to book you can do so online using our easy to use online booking system HERE! We can't wait to chat with you more! Oh and congratulations!!!