Senior photos should feel like YOU.
Not stiff. Not awkward. Not overly posed. Your session is about capturing this season of your life in a way that feels real, personal, and honestly… really fun.
One of the biggest things I hear from seniors and parents before their session is:
“But what do we even do to prepare?!”
Don’t worry — that’s exactly what we’re here for.
At MGP, Bridget and I walk with you through the entire planning process so you never feel like you’re figuring it out alone. From outfits to locations to what to bring, we help make the experience feel exciting instead of overwhelming.
Here are my biggest tips for preparing for your senior session!
It Starts With Your Questionnaire
One of the first things Bridget will have you do when you book is have your senior fill out is our MGP questionnaire.
This is SUCH an important part of the process because it helps me get to know who your senior actually is before the session ever happens.
I want to know:
- their personality
- hobbies
- interests
- favorite music
- style
- dream locations
- vision for their photos
The goal is never to create cookie-cutter senior photos. I want your gallery to feel personalized to YOU.
Some seniors want:
- sporty and energetic
- soft and emotional
- outdoorsy
- downtown and editorial
- trendy and fashion-forward
- nostalgic and film-inspired
There’s no “right” answer, the questionnaire simply helps us start building the vision together.
The Planning Call Helps Bring Everything Together
After the questionnaire, we’ll schedule a planning call where I help walk you through all the details.
This is where we:
- narrow down locations
- talk through outfit ideas
- decide what to bring
- plan session flow
- figure out the overall vibe
A lot of seniors come into the call saying things like:
“I have no idea where I want to go.”
or
“I don’t know what to wear.”
That is SO normal.
We help guide the process based on your personality, interests, hobbies, and the types of images you’re drawn to.
Sometimes we’ll recommend:
- open fields and wildflowers
- downtown rooftops
- pine trees
- lakes
- parking garages
- sports fields
- coffee shops
- arcades
- studios
- bookstores
- anywhere that feels like YOU
This is one of my favorite parts because the session really starts coming to life during planning.
What Should You Wear for Senior Photos?
The biggest thing?
Wear outfits that feel like YOU.
Your outfit choices should reflect what you want your session to show:
- personality
- hobbies
- casual everyday vibes
- elevated dressy looks
- trendy fashion moments
- sporty energy
- soft romantic vibes
Your outfits should also match the locations and overall feel of the session.
For example:
- Downtown locations may pair well with more editorial or trendy outfits.
- Nature sessions usually work beautifully with movement, texture, and softer colors.
- Sports or hobby-focused looks may include uniforms, jerseys, instruments, or props.
I always recommend bringing a variety:
- one casual outfit
- one dressier option
- something personality-driven
- something timeless
And if you’re stuck between options? Bring them all.
Seriously.
I can help decide together at the session!
Tips for Getting Ready Before Your Session
A few little prep tips can make a HUGE difference in helping you feel confident and relaxed on session day.
Hair & Grooming Tips
- If you spray tan, do it a few days before your session so it has time to settle naturally.
- If you have shorter hair, try to schedule your haircut a few days before photos so it looks fresh but not too freshly cut.
- If you’re doing professional hair or makeup, consider doing a trial run beforehand if possible.
The biggest goal is to still look like yourself — just a polished, confident version.
Prep Your Outfits Ahead of Time
Please don’t wait until five minutes before leaving to figure out outfits. 😂
The night before:
- steam or iron your clothes
- lay out every outfit
- organize accessories and shoes
- double-check undergarments if needed
Trust me! This makes session day SO much less stressful.
And again, if you’re unsure about something last minute, you can always:
- reach out to Bridget or me
- send photos
- or just bring extra options to the session
We are happy to help.
Things to Bring to Your Senior Session
A few helpful extras:
- brush or comb
- lint roller
- water
- comfy shoes for walking between spots
- touch-up makeup if applicable
- a small fan if it’s hot
- hobby or sports props
- jackets, hats, jewelry, or accessories for variety
Props can actually make sessions feel MORE natural because they give you something to interact with.
Most Importantly… Relax
I know being in front of a camera can feel intimidating at first.
Almost every senior says:
“I’m awkward in photos.”
or
“I don’t know how to pose.”
I promise — you do NOT need to know what you’re doing before showing up.
That’s my job.
The session is meant to feel fun, relaxed, and comfortable. We’ll move around, talk, laugh, play music, and ease into everything naturally. Most seniors end up saying by the end that it was way easier and more fun than they expected.
You don’t have to perform perfectly.
You just have to show up as yourself.
And together, we’ll create something really beautiful from that.
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