How to Dress for Your Senior Photo Session
Megan at Walnut Creek, Papillion NE
Senior photos are all about celebrating you! The right outfit can make your photos look polished, stylish, and timeless. But with so many options, choosing what to wear can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!
Here are some expert tips to help you feel confident, comfortable, and completely yourself during your senior photo session in Omaha.
1. Choose Outfits That Reflect Your Personality
Your senior photos should showcase who you are. Love a casual, laid-back look? Go for jeans and a cozy sweater. More of a fashion-forward trendsetter? A statement dress or structured blazer could be perfect. Think about what makes you feel most like you and build your outfits around that.
2. Stick to Solid Colors and Classic Patterns
Bold logos and busy prints can be distracting. Solid colors, subtle textures, and classic patterns (like stripes or florals) photograph beautifully without taking attention away from you. Earth tones, soft pastels, and jewel tones tend to look great in any setting.
Katie at her home in Gretna
3. Layer Up for Variety
Adding layers—like a denim jacket, your favorite sweater or a fun hat—gives you more options during your session. You can take them on and off for quick outfit changes without fully changing your clothes.
For example, start with a simple black tank top. Then throw your hair back and add a cute hoodie or jacket for a few shots, then slip on your favorite hand-knit sweater. These were all taken just a few minutes a part, and it shows such good variety.
4. Avoid Neon Colors, Tiny Stripes and All Black
Neon colors can cast unnatural tones onto your skin, and very thin stripes can cause a weird visual effect in photos. Stick to colors and patterns that are soft, rich, and flattering.
And… I know you won’t like this, but please hear me when I say, DO NOT WEAR ALL BLACK. Especially all black on the top half of your body. It’s a comfort color and only a small percentage of the population can pull off that much black! If you really need a dark color option, go for navy or charcoal, its much more flattering!
5. Bring At Least Two Outfit Options
Most seniors choose two to three outfits—some casual and one dressy is a great combo! This adds variety to your gallery and allows you to showcase different sides of your personality. All of my senior sessions include unlimited outfits.
My favorite combo? A neutral outfit and one with a bright color, especially on top!
6. Consider the Season and Location
Omaha’s seasons can really impact your outfit choices! Here are some quick ideas:
Spring: Soft pastels, light layers, and floral dresses.
Summer: Bright or soft colors, flowy dresses, and breathable fabrics.
Fall: Warm tones, cozy sweaters, jackets and boots.
Winter: Stylish coats, scarves, hats and textured layers.
7. Shoes Matter!
Your shoes will show in photos, so make sure they match your outfit and the location. Avoid overly worn or casual flip-flops (unless they match your vibe), and opt for stylish but comfortable choices.
Bring shoe options with you if you aren’t sure which ones to wear and I’ll help you decide!
8. Accessories and Props Can Add a Personal Touch
Simple accessories like necklaces, hats, or rings can enhance your outfit without being distracting. If you have a special item (like a sports jersey, instrument, or book), bring it along to make your photos even more unique.
This is one of the most important tips of the bunch, and this is how you make your senior photos feel like YOU!
9. Don’t Forget Hair and Makeup
Your makeup should feel like an enhanced version of your everyday look. Avoid overly shimmery products, as they can reflect light strangely. For hair, a natural style that you feel comfortable in is best—windblown or freshly styled hair always looks great!
And for the guys, please listen to your mom and use some styling products in your hair, or at least bring some with you! The Omaha wind can be a real pain and a little hair product goes a long way!
10. Most Importantly—Be Comfortable and Confident!
If you feel good in what you’re wearing, it will show in your photos. Confidence is the best accessory, so wear something that makes you feel amazing!
After all, a good photo is 80% Confidence and 20% what your mama gave you!
By planning ahead and choosing the right outfits, your senior photos will look timeless and completely you! If you ever need help picking outfits, I’m happy to give feedback before your session. Let’s make your senior portraits unforgettable!
New for 2025…. As an added bonus to booking with me, I will share a seasonal what to wear guide with styled looks from head to toe, and clickable shopping links!
Ready to book?? Start here >>> www.cmariephotodesign.com