headshot of senior dressed in long sleeve sequin dress with hands i hair

Preparing you for the best senior session is an exciting time, and your senior photos should capture the unique personality and style that make you – YOU! A little prep can go a long way in ensuring your photos turn out exactly how you envision them. Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for the best senior photoshoot!

1. Choose Your Outfits Wisely

Your outfit choices can make a significant impact on the final images! Here are a few tips:

  • Bring a Variety: Choose at least two to three outfits—one casual, one dressy, and one that represents your personality (like a sports uniform, dance outfit, or favorite band tee).
  • Stick to Flattering Colors: Solid colors and subtle patterns photograph beautifully. Avoid loud patterns, neon colors, and large logos.
  • Consider the Season: To be comfortable, choose fabrics and layers according to the weather. Plan an outfit that lets your skin breathe during the hot summer months to avoid excessive sweating. Likewise, for winter months, wear something that keeps your body warm.
  • Accessorize Thoughtfully: Hats, jewelry, jackets, and scarves can add personality but should not overwhelm you. Keep it simple.
  • Here is one of my favorite clothing stores https://hollycove.shop/
senior girl sitting on ground with one leg out during Mary Wiebe's Photography

2. Plan Your Hair & Makeup

Your senior photos are a perfect excuse to pamper yourself!

  • Keep It Natural: Your photos should reflect the best version of you. If you don’t usually wear much makeup, avoid putting it on too heavy; go for a soft, natural look.
  • Hair Prep: A fresh trim or color touch-up a week before the shoot can make a difference! Avoid drastic changes right before your session.
  • Bring essentials: Lip gloss, powder, a hairbrush, and extra hair ties, which are great to have on hand for touch-ups.
senior girl wearing black dress with hands in hair and senior girl in black shirt and light jeans grabbing a strand of her hair

3. Pick a Meaningful Location

Think about a location that reflects your personality and interests for your senior session:

  • Urban Vibes: Downtown settings, brick walls, and city streets for a modern feel.
  • Nature Scenes: Parks, fields, and lakes for a soft, timeless look.
  • School Spirit: Your high school, sports field, or gym to highlight your journey.
  • Hobbies & Interests: If you love music, bring your instrument. If you’re a bookworm, bring your favorite novel; if you are artistic and love painting, consider a painting session. Make this be you, 100%.
senior girl wearing black shirt and jeans looking to the side during the best senior session

4. Get Plenty of Rest & Stay Hydrated

Preparing for your senior session requires a good night’s sleep. It will help you look fresh and energized! Drink plenty of water before your session to keep your skin glowing and hydrated.

senior girl posing in black sequin dress and heels

5. Bring a Friend or Family Member

Having someone you trust at your session can help you feel more comfortable and bring out natural smiles! A best friend, sibling, or parent can also help fix hair, adjust outfits, and make the experience more fun.

girl holding belt loop looking to the side during the best senior session

6. Think About Posing & Expressions

I will guide you, but practicing a few poses in the mirror before your senior session is helpful. Try shifting your weight, tilting your head slightly, or adjusting your hands to see what feels most natural. Consider different expressions—soft smiles, serious looks, or big laughs—to add variety to your gallery. Playing around with poses beforehand will help you feel more confident and relaxed on the day of your shoot, making for authentic and beautiful photos that truly reflect your personality.

senior girl sitting on stairs and walking while looking back at camera

7. Arrive Early & Relax

Give yourself extra time to get to the location so you don’t feel rushed. Arriving early allows you to settle in, touch up your hair or makeup, and get comfortable before the session starts. Take a deep breath, shake off any nerves, and trust the process—I will guide you every step of the way. Most importantly, have fun and be yourself! These photos are about celebrating you and this exciting milestone in your life.

senior girl wearing black dress posing on ledge and senior girl walking on ledge in black shirt and light jeans

8. Be Yourself & Have Fun!

The best photos happen when you’re relaxed and having fun. Let loose, laugh, and embrace the moment! Don’t be afraid to move around, try different poses, and show off your personality—whether that’s a big, joyful laugh or a quiet, confident smile. This senior session is all about celebrating YOU, your journey, and the excitement of senior year. Trust me, enjoy the process, and let’s make this experience unforgettable! Here are a few shots from a senior session that I’ve photographed:

headshot of senior dressed in long sleeve sequin dress with hands i hair

close up of senior holding her heels during Mary Wiebe photography session

senior girl sitting on ledge grabbing one leg

senior girl in white shirt and jeans walking down steps leaning away from rail

close up of senior girl in black shirt and light jeans

Did you feel like reading this helped prepare you for the best senior session? I hope you found this information helpful and have gained the inspiration you need to make this senior session totally YOU!. A little prep can go a long way in making sure your photos turn out exactly how you envision them. Can’t wait to capture you in the best senior session ever.

Preparing you for the best senior session is an exciting time, and your senior photos should capture the unique personality and style that make you – YOU! A little prep can go a long way in ensuring your photos turn out exactly how you envision them. Hope this provided you with everything you needed to prepare for the best senior photoshoot!

8 Steps for the Best Senior Session

April 22, 2025

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