What to Wear for Your Senior Photos (So You Actually Love Them Later)

Let's skip the generic advice for a second. There are definitely outfits that photograph better than others — and this is about helping you choose pieces that look good in real life and on camera.

Start Here: Bring 2–3 Outfits

More outfits = more time changing and less time shooting. A good mix:

• One casual — everyday but elevated
• One slightly dressy
• One that feels the most "you"

If you're debating, text me ahead of time. An outfit on a hanger is helpful — but even better is a quick picture of you actually wearing it.

Talk to Me Ahead of Time (This Actually Matters More Than You Think)

Even if we already have your location picked, send me your outfit options before your session. It helps me plan the flow — where we start, where we go next, and which outfit works best in each spot. (Not sure where to shoot? Here's a look at some of my favorite spots in the Grand Rapids area.)

For example, I had a senior in Holland with a red dress, and I knew this amazing mural at the far end of town would be perfect with it. Because I saw her outfits ahead of time, I had her arrive wearing that dress so we could start there and work our way down 8th Street. That kind of planning makes a real difference in how your outfits and locations complement each other.

"She sent me this dress ahead of time, and I immediately knew exactly where we were starting. That's what a little planning can do."

Outfit Changes Are Part of the Plan

If it's a location I've shot at before, I usually know whether there are good places to change — or not. Sometimes:

• You'll change in your car
• Whoever comes with you holds outfit #2 or #3 so we don't have to walk all the way back to the car
• We keep changes quick and simple

Moms carrying outfits on hangers = worth their weight in gold. Truly.

Think in "Outfit Formulas," Not Random Pieces

Instead of staring at your closet, try building outfits like this:

• Fitted + flowy — fitted top with looser jeans or a skirt
• Structured + soft — denim jacket with a simple dress, or a crisp shirt with relaxed pants
• Layered + simple base — a great jacket, flannel, or button-up over a clean, simple outfit

Layers are less about "more clothes" and more about giving us options without a full change.

Color + Patterns (What Actually Works on Camera)

What works well:

• Neutrals — cream, tan, black, white
• Earth tones — olive, rust, brown
• Rich colors — deep green, navy, burgundy

"Earth tones that blend right into the setting — effortless."

What to think twice about:

• Neon — it reflects color onto your skin
• Super tiny prints like pinstripes or very small polka dots — the camera doesn't love them
• Big logos or graphics — they date your photos fast

That said — if your style is bold, own it.

"Hot pink and purple heels. Completely right. This is your session — if you want to have fun with it, have fun with it."

A note on white: It can work — especially at the beach — but in most settings it tends to be the brightest thing in the photo, which can pull attention away from your face. Not a hard rule, just something worth thinking through.

And flowy is always a good idea.

Holland State Park on Lake Michigan — flowy fabric moves with you, and that movement makes every frame more interesting.

Fit Matters

Clothes that are too baggy or oversized can be hard to photograph in a flattering way. On the flip side, if something is too tight or uncomfortable, that shows too. Try everything on ahead of time and actually move around in it — sit, walk, bend. If you're constantly adjusting it, it's not the one.

If you have something you love but can't sit in — certain jeans, a fitted skirt — just tell me ahead of time. I'll plan your poses around it so it never shows.

Shoes (Yes, They Matter)

They will show. If you're wearing heels, love that — just bring something easy to slip on for walking between spots. For beach sessions, barefoot is almost always the right call.

Jewelry + Accessories

Jewelry shows up clearly on camera, and the right pieces can really complete a look.

• Simple, classic earrings almost always work
• Layered necklaces can be beautiful — just make sure they don't compete with a busy neckline
• Less is usually more, but "no jewelry" can sometimes feel unfinished depending on the outfit

Grand Haven, MI — the right jewelry finishes a look. These earrings and necklace add just enough without competing with anything else.

Hats can be a fun addition too — even if we only use them for a few shots, they add a different energy to your gallery.

Lake Michigan in Holland — even a few frames with a hat can give your gallery a completely different feel.

Nails

Your hands will be in more photos than you'd expect — resting in your lap, holding something, touching your hair. Nails don't need to be perfect, but a quick check before your session is worth it. A fresh neutral or a color that works with your outfits goes a long way.

Glasses

If you wear glasses, mention it ahead of time. Glare can happen depending on the lighting — in many cases I can remove it in editing, but I can't promise it'll work in every situation. Some seniors bring an old pair with the lenses popped out, which works great.

Undergarments

If you're wearing anything light-colored — cream, white, blush — think through what's underneath. Visible bra straps or lines can be a distraction in photos, and it's an easy thing to plan for.

The Night Before

Don't try anything new. No new spray tan, no dramatic haircut, no bold makeup look you've never worn. You want to look like yourself — just polished. Experimenting the night before is a gamble that almost never pays off.

For the Guys

There's nothing wrong with khaki shorts and a polo — but a few small upgrades go a long way in photos:

• Choose shorts with a more tailored, less bulky fit
• Go for a well-fitted shirt, not too baggy
• Ironing matters more than you think

A button-up, henley, or lightweight sweater can instantly elevate your look — and one session can give you several completely different looks without a full outfit change.

"One session. Four looks. A jacket, the button-down on its own, a henley, a sweater — each one felt like its own vibe. No full outfit changes required."

If you feel like getting dressed up — do it. We'll find the right backdrop to match.

"If you feel like getting dressy, do it."

One more thing: if one outfit is shorts, consider doing long pants for another. It adds variety to your gallery.

Hair

Wear your hair how you normally like it — just a little more polished. If it's windy (especially at the beach), having an option to pull it back can save the day. Hair across your face isn't always the look you're going for.

The Goal

The goal isn't to look trendy. It's to look like the best version of you right now — and to have enough variety that your gallery doesn't all feel the same.

If you're unsure, send me photos of your options. I'm always glad to give input ahead of time — it's the best way to make sure your photos are everything you hoped they'd be. Learn more about senior sessions with Jules K Photography.