What to Wear for Senior Pictures

So you’ve booked your senior pictures—awesome. Now the big question: What the heck do you wear? You want to look amazing, feel confident, and most importantly, still feel like you. But let’s be honest, picking outfits for senior photos can feel… overwhelming. Don’t worry—I’ve got you.

This guide breaks down exactly what to wear for senior pictures, with real advice, examples from past sessions, and outfit tips that actually work on camera.

Quick Tips: What to Wear for Senior Pictures

If you’re just here for the essentials, here’s your cheat sheet:

1. Stick with solid colors and skip the busy prints.
2. Wear clothes that fit well and let you move naturally.
3. Bring at least 3 outfits—casual, dressy, and one that’s totally you.
4. Avoid logos, neon, and anything you’d constantly adjust.
5. Accessorize smartly—less is more.
6. Pack backups. Trust me.

Now let’s get into the good stuff.

Start With You: Your Personality Comes First

The best senior portraits reflect who you are right now. Not who you think you’re supposed to look like, or what Instagram trends are telling you. So before you pull out your entire closet, ask yourself:

• What do I love wearing?
• What colors or styles make me feel like a boss?
• Is there something I wear all the time that I’d want to look back on later?

One of my seniors, Elena, wore her favorite oversized denim jacket with a floral dress underneath. Simple, but 100% her. And that’s what made it awesome.

Build a Strong Outfit Mix

I recommend one outfit per 30–45 minutes of session time. So if you booked a 2-hour shoot, bring at least 3–4 outfits. Here’s a good mix:

1. The Classic Look (Cap & Gown)

Bring your cap and gown—even if we only use it for a few shots. Add honor cords, sashes, or custom graduation caps to make it personal.

2. The Dressy Look (for Mom & LinkedIn)

Think of something you’d wear to a job interview or nice dinner:

• Button-down and slacks
• Midi dress or jumpsuit
• Dress shirt with a blazer

These always make great images for graduation announcements or even a professional headshot.

3. The Everyday Look (aka, YOU)

This is your chance to be yourself:

• Band tee and ripped jeans?
• Hoodie and joggers?
• That flannel you’ve had since sophomore year?

If it’s part of your vibe, we’ll make it look good.

4. The “Something Special” Look

Bring something that celebrates what makes you, you:

• Sports jersey or uniform
• Letterman jacket
• Dance outfit
• Instrument or art supplies

I had a senior bring her guitar and play during part of her session. It brought her to life—and the photos showed it.

Best Colors to Wear for Senior Pictures

Your goal: Stand out without clashing with your background. Here’s what works:

• Jewel tones (emerald, burgundy, sapphire)
• Earth tones (rust, olive, tan, navy)
• Neutrals (cream, black, gray, soft white)

Avoid neon, super bright colors, and anything that reflects light (like shiny satin). Also, skip logos or loud patterns—they pull focus.

What to Avoid (Trust Me on These)

• Big brand logos – They date your photos and pull attention.
• Tiny patterns – They can create weird effects on camera (called moiré).
• Clothes that ride up or fall down – You don’t want to be adjusting constantly.
• Anything uncomfortable – If you’re fidgeting, it’ll show.
• Trendy pieces you won’t like next year – Classic usually wins.

Guys: What to Wear for Senior Pictures

Keep it clean, well-fitted, and simple:

• Solid button-downs, polos, or henleys
• Dark jeans or fitted chinos
• Leather sneakers, boots, or casual dress shoes
• Bring one layered look (like a jacket or flannel)

Also—empty your pockets. No one wants to see phone outlines or key bulges.

Check out these ideas for senior pictures for guys, too!

Girls: What to Wear for Senior Pictures

Fitted tops, flowy dresses, or jumpsuits that move well

• Layer with jackets, cardigans, or scarves for variety
• Bra straps and undergarments—make sure they stay hidden or match your outfit
• Hair ties on wrists? Off.

Pro tip: Wear something that lets you move freely without having to tug, adjust, or reposition every 30 seconds.

Check out these ideas for senior pictures for girls, too!

Plan Around Your Location

Where we shoot should influence what you wear:

• Graffiti walls or city scenes: Go bold. Leather jackets, black, deep reds.
• Nature or parks: Earth tones, soft fabrics, layers that flow.
• Beach or open fields: Light colors, breezy fabrics, bare feet optional.

Still unsure? Send me photos of your outfit options and I’ll help narrow it down.

Check out the best locations for senior pictures in Michigan!

Final Thoughts (and a Little Pep Talk)

You don’t have to be a fashion expert or model to look great in your senior pictures. You just need outfits that feel like you, fit well, and make you feel confident.

This is your moment. Let’s make it feel effortless, fun, and 100% true to who you are. Still stuck on outfits? Reach out and I’ll help you plan it out.

You’ve got this—and I’ve got your back.