05/27/2026
Senior photos tips and ideas for you to look your best. Here’s how to prep:
*1-2 Months Before*
- *Pick outfits*: Choose 2-4 looks that feel like _you_. Avoid tiny stripes, big logos, or neon colors — they photograph weird. Think solid colors, textures, and layers. Bring one casual, one dressy, and one that shows your hobby/sport.
- *Book hair/makeup*: If you’re getting it professionally done, schedule a trial. For DIY, practice the look beforehand. Guys — get a haircut 1-2 weeks before, not the day before.
- *Location + vibe*: Talk to your photographer about spots. Urban, field, school, or studio all give different feels. Match outfits to location.
*Week Before*
- *Grooming*: Pluck/wax eyebrows, whiten teeth if you want, trim nails. Don’t try new skincare — no one wants a breakout day-of.
- *Try everything on*: Make sure clothes fit, aren’t wrinkled, and you’re comfy sitting/standing. Check for bra straps, underwear lines, or tags showing.
- *Sleep + hydrate*: Your skin will thank you. Drink water and aim for 7-8hrs sleep 3 nights before.
*Day Before*
- *Pack a bag*: Outfits on hangers, shoes, accessories, lip balm, powder for shine, hairspray, safety pins, and a stain stick.
- *Iron/steam clothes* and lay them out.
- *Skip salty foods
— they cause puffiness.
- *Clean glasses* if you wear them, to avoid glare.
*Day Of*
- *Eat breakfast* so you’re not hangry.
- *Moisturize* but skip SPF on your face — it causes flashback/white cast in photos.
- *Bring props* that matter: instrument, sports gear, pet, car, book, letterman jacket. Makes photos personal.
- *Relax your face*: Practice a soft smile in the mirror. Tense = awkward. Your photographer will direct you, but think of something funny right before the click.
Got a specific vibe you’re going for — edgy, boho, sporty, glam?
