What Should I Wear for Senior Pictures?

This is a question that I get asked all the time. If you are trying to figure out what to wear for your Senior Portraits, you are not alone! I want all of my clients to have a stress free and fun experience on photo shoot day. In order to do this, and get the most out of your time in front of my camera, planning ahead is SO important! Having great style on a daily basis is one thing, but knowing the types of outfits to bring for your photo session is key.

Senior Style Guide
Birmingham Alabama Senior Photos
Spain Park High School, Hoover High School, Vestavia Hills High School, Homewood High School, Mountain Brook High School, Pelham High School, Helena High School, Oak Mountain High School, Alabaster High School.  Senior Photographer

Color choice is important!

On camera, solid black and white or bright neon tones can make skin tones look very washed out and unflattering. So, when choosing outfits for your senior session, try to choose colors that are more neutral and that compliment your hair and skin colors! Colors like maroons, dark navy blues and creams photograph beautifully as well as olive greens, and pastel purples, pinks and oranges. Also, consider the location you’re shooting at. If we’re doing a more nature geared session, you might want to steer away from green tones that would blend in with grass tones. Try opting for color choices opposite of that on the color wheel.

Senior Style Guide.  Birmingham Alabama Senior Photographer

Choose the Style for your Session

Most of the Seniors I photograph choose a classic style for their photos. They may choose to include some confetti, a college sweatshirt, or a sports uniform. However, if you have some props in mind that reflect your personality- please bring them! Think flowers, a cute bag, sunglasses, a vintage bike, shakers or a musical instrument. Whatever speaks to you and will showcase your fun personality and style! Some Seniors love a few props, while some prefer to go without- no wrong choices at all.

Senior Style Guide
Birmingham Alabama Senior Photos
Spain Park High School, Hoover High School, Vestavia Hills High School, Homewood High School, Mountain Brook High School, Pelham High School, Helena High School, Oak Mountain High School, Alabaster High School.  Senior Photographer

Dress Up!

For the Girls- I love a long flowy dress! They are flattering on all body types, look great on camera and add an extra dimension of movement to your photos. Long flowy material just has a way of elevating your final images- walking photos turn out extra beautiful, and the twirl pictures are just a little magical!

Birmingham Alabama Senior Photographer

For the Guys- Button-up shirts and dress pants tend to look most impressive on camera because they really suit the male body. Think about the red carpet… always full of so many guys in formal attire and not very many hoodies and jeans! While a full suit is completely your choice, I do recommend one formal outfit.

In addition to your dressier outfit, it’s also fun to include and outfit that is more of and everyday look and reflects your style. Think denim, a jumper or 2 piece sets. Consider the Weather

Cold weather accessories are a fun way to glam up your outfit! Beanies, scarves and boots are always adorable in photos, along with cozy jackets and chunky sweaters. Creating layers helps to add movement and dimension to your photos- which I LOVE!

Stay True to You!

Overall, choose outfits that you love and feel great in! If there are pieces in your closet that make you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable, don’t include them in your senior portrait wardrobe! Additionally, we will most likely be sitting on the ground, laying down, walking and doing other things that could be difficult if your clothing is uncomfortable.


If you are looking for a photographer in Birmingham, Alabama or surrounding areas, I would love to work with you! Get in touch with me HERE for all the details!

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