10 Senior Portrait Tips Every High School Senior Needs to Know Before Taking Senior Photos! (That No One Tells You!)

IT’S SENIOR YEAR! And so we’re spilling the tea on what no one tells you, but everyone should know before stepping in front of the camera with these Senior Portrait Tips.

Seniors… You’ve waited years for this moment—pep rallies, prom, late-night cramming, and big decisions about the future. Parents… You’ve watched them grow into the person they are today—through scraped knees, school plays, late-night study sessions, and now, big decisions about the future.

And right in the middle of it all? Senior portraits.

But let’s be honest: this isn’t just another picture day.

This is your time. Your story. Your chance to capture who you are right now… before everything changes.

Whether you’re dreaming of magazine-worthy vibes or keeping it simple and classic, this is your go-to guide for making sure your senior photo session is everything it should be, and more.

This Isn’t School Picture Day (Thank Goodness)

Say goodbye to stiff smiles, weird lighting, and that awkward blue background. Your senior portrait session is completely different—it’s customized just for YOU.

We’ll choose the perfect location, lighting, wardrobe, and vibe to match your style and tell your story. You get to look and feel amazing—and yes, it’s fun.

2. What You Wear Matters (More Than You Think)

Your outfit sets the tone for the entire session. Choose clothes that make you feel confident, fit well, and reflect your personality. Layers, textures, and solid colors photograph beautifully.

Avoid distractions big logos (unless it is part of a school uniform) or distracting patterns. They don’t play nice with the camera and take away from you.

Need help choosing? We offer a full style guide to make it easy. GET IT HERE

In addition, all of our senior sessions include a custom style and wardrobe planning consultation!

You Don’t Need to Know How to Pose (Seriously)

“Where do I put my hands?”
“What do I do with my face?”
Don’t worry—I’ve got you.

Posing guidance is part of the experience. I’ll walk you through it all so you feel natural, relaxed, and totally YOU in every shot. No modeling experience required.

The Best Time to Book Is Sooner Than You Think

The earlier you book, the better your options for ideal weather, golden hour lighting, and album delivery before graduation.

Most seniors book their sessions between May and October of Junior year. Fall colors? Golden summer fields? You decide!

Bring the Right Stuff With You

Pack a small bag with essentials:

• Extra outfits
• Lip balm or gloss
• Hairbrush or comb
• Favorite accessories
• Touch-up makeup
• Water (yes, stay hydrated!)
• Sneakers or flip-flops between shots

Bonus tip: bring someone who hypes you up—your bestie, sibling, or parent!

Yes, Props Are Totally Welcome (If They Mean Something to You)

Think letterman jackets, instruments, sports gear, or your dog (yes, really!). If it tells part of your story, bring it!!

But avoid overloading the session, because we want the focus on YOU.

Professional Hair & Makeup = Game Changer

You don’t need to wear a ton of makeup, but a little polish (especially with professional lighting) makes a big difference. Pro makeup is designed for camera flash and helps reduce shine, even out skin tone, and define your features. Good thing we include it for ALL of our Seniors who ask for it at no additional cost!

Hair blowing in the breeze? Yes. Frizz and flyaways? No thanks.

Let’s Talk About Confidence (It Shows Up in Photos)

Even if you’re feeling nervous, we’ll make sure you feel relaxed and empowered. Confidence comes from feeling prepared, supported, and seen.

That’s our job—and we take it seriously.

These Photos Aren’t Just for You (They’re for the People Who Love You, Too)

You’re the star, but these images will live on your parents’ walls, in your yearbook, and in albums for generations. They’ll be a reminder of who you were at this incredible time in your life.

Make them count.

You’re Worth Celebrating—Right Now

You don’t have to wait until college, a job, or some “next big thing” to feel proud of yourself.

You’ve already accomplished so much. This moment is part of your legacy. Capture it beautifully.

Want More Senior Portrait Tips?
Bonus: Get Your Free Senior Style Guide

Need more Senior Portrait Tips? How about outfit inspo? Our Senior Session Style Guide includes:

• What to wear (and what to skip)
• How to build a perfect outfit combo
• Color tips for every skin tone
• Session prep checklist
  👉 Get your free guide here

Ready to Book Your Dream Senior Session?

I’m Ashlie, a portrait artist who helps high school seniors like you feel confident, celebrated, and seen.
Whether you’re all about classic elegance, sporty vibes, or full-on glam, I’ll help you create a session that feels like you.

Serving seniors in Wallingford, CT and surrounding areas.
Let’s make this your most unforgettable year yet.

📅 Click here to check availability and start your booking

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