Making Your Senior Photos Uniquely You
Megan in her basketball uniform at Walnut Creek, Papillion
Your senior photos should be more than just a snapshot—they should tell your story! Including personal interests, hobbies, and passions in your session makes your portraits unique and meaningful. Whether you’re into sports, music, art, or anything else, here are some fun and creative ways to showcase what makes you you.
1. Bring Your Gear or Equipment
If you’re an athlete, musician, or artist, consider bringing props that represent your passion. Here are some ideas:
Sports: Bring your jersey, cleats, ball, or letterman jacket. Strike a pose with your gear or action shots on a field like Maria and her pole vault pole below.
Music: Hold your instrument, sit next to a piano, or strum your guitar. These don’t have to be boring poses, let’s have some fun!
Art: Show off your paintbrushes, sketchbook, or even a work-in-progress. I would have loved this for my senior photos many years ago… ;)
2. Wear Something That Represents Your Interest
Clothing can be a great way to subtly showcase your personality.
Love reading? Wear a sweater with a literary quote or hold your favorite book.
Passionate about dance? A flowy dress or ballet outfit can highlight movement beautifully. I’ve captured some amazing dancers, they are always amazing shots!!
Involved in theatre? Bring a costume from your favorite performance, or have photos taken at your local theater.
Katie reading a favorite book at her home in Gretna
3. Choose a Location That Fits Your Personality
Your backdrop can help tell your story, too!
Sports lovers: A football field, basketball court, or track. This can be from your school, or anywhere in town to make it more unique!
Nature lovers: A scenic trail, forest, or lakeside. There’s even a few waterfalls not too far from town!
Bookworms: A cozy library or vintage bookstore.
City lovers: A downtown rooftop, trendy coffee shop, or urban graffiti wall.
4. Get Creative with Action Shots
Static poses are great, but movement can bring energy to your photos.
Toss a football or kick a soccer ball in the air. Have fun with it!
Dance, jump, or spin for dynamic shots. These prompts are always a winner!
Play your guitar, laugh mid-song, or sketch something during your session.
Nathan playing his guitar in Papillion, NE
5. Incorporate Your Future Goals
Your senior year is the bridge between high school and what’s next—why not include that in your photos?
College-bound? Wear a sweatshirt from your future school and show it off!
Aspiring doctor? Bring a stethoscope or medical book.
Future photographer? Hold a camera and capture the moment!
6. Bring Your (Furry) Best Friend
If your pet is a big part of your life, bring them along! Dogs, cats, horses, or parrots (and yes! Kristen brought her parrot and her puppy)—whoever makes you smile. Just be sure to bring a friend or family member to help when they’re not in the shot, or take them home when you’re done with them.
Kristen and her pet parrot in the Old Market, Omaha
7. Make It Personal, Make It Fun!
At the end of the day, these photos are all about you. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box—whether it’s a favorite coffee shop, a funky hat, or a skateboard trick, the goal is to create images that make you feel like you.
If you’re unsure how to incorporate your interests, let’s chat! I love brainstorming creative ways to make your senior photos unforgettable.
Your senior photos should be as unique as you are—so let’s make them you!
To book your senior session, start here >>> www.cmariephotodesign.com.
