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Wardrobe and styling guide for senior sessions in Sandpoint, North Idaho, helping students look polished and confident.

Style Guide 

WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR SENIOR SESSION

What Should I Wear to a Senior Portrait Session?
Outfit questions are always tricky! Keep it easy — choose clothes that fit well, feel comfortable, and let you move. Think about dressing in a way that is appropriate for the location. But most of all choose outfits that you feel good in and that boosts your confidence!

Outfits & Layers

Bring two to three outfits so you have options.
Looks can be casual or dressy — whatever reflects your personality.

Wear colors that flatter your skin tone, and consider pairing neutrals with pops of color.

Layers photograph beautifully, so feel free to add a jacket, cardigan, or scarf for depth and dimension.

Dress with your whole body in mind:  think about hats, shoes, and undergarments, making sure they complement your outfit.

If something is snug or fitted in an area you’re not comfortable with, leave it at home. You’ll move, sit, and pose — comfort is key!

Avoid neon colors unless we’ve discussed it, they often don’t photograph well. Small stripes or checks can create weird patterns in photos, so stick to solid colors or subtle prints.

Wardrobe and styling guide for senior sessions in Sandpoint, North Idaho, helping students look polished and confident.
Wardrobe and styling guide for senior sessions in Sandpoint, North Idaho, helping students look polished and confident.
Wardrobe and styling guide for senior sessions in Sandpoint, North Idaho, helping students look polished and confident.

Hair & Makeup

Stick to a hairstyle you know and love. A trim is fine, but avoid a completely new cut or color right before your session.

If you use styling products, aim for movement, not stiffness.

Professional hair and makeup is an option if you’d like a polished look.

For those doing their own makeup:
 

  • Use natural light when applying.
     

  • Apply primer and a foundation with fuller coverage.
     

  • Add slightly more makeup than your everyday look, but keep it natural — no caking.
     

  • Matte products work best; avoid shimmer.
     

  • Stay away from bright lip colors that clash with your skin.  
    Practice beforehand if needed.

Professional Hair & Makeup

If you’d like a polished, camera-ready look, I offer professional hair and makeup services for your session. It’s a great way to feel confident and make your portraits shine!

Nails

Don’t forget your nails! Many poses feature your hands near your face

French manicures, light or natural colors, or no polish at all photograph best.

Avoid chipped polish or bold, distracting patterns.

Tanning

Avoid tanning right before your session — it can cause uneven color or tan lines.

Cameras capture color differently than the human eye. Your natural skin tone is always best.

A small touch of bronzer is fine if you want a bit of warmth.

Accessories & Props

Bring items that reflect your style — jewelry, hairpieces, scarves, etc.

Props are optional but can add personality; think instruments, sports equipment, varsity jackets, or anything meaningful.

If you have a pet, I encourage you to bring them along if you like. I love photographing pets!

Wardrobe and styling guide for senior sessions in Sandpoint, North Idaho, helping students look polished and confident.
Wardrobe and styling guide for senior sessions in Sandpoint, North Idaho, helping students look polished and confident.

Prep & Stress-Free Tips

Pack your bag the night before. Consider:
 

  • Comb or hairbrush

  • Makeup for touch-ups

  • Wrinkle remover spray

  • Extra outfits

  • Accessories and props

  • Towel for sweat

Drink plenty of water, get enough rest, and eat well.

Expect a bit of nerves at the start — everyone does! After 10–15 minutes, we settle in and have fun. And don’t worry, I’ve got you. I’ll guide you through poses and prompts the whole time.

What to Bring

Extra outfits & accessories

Props meaningful to you

Hair & makeup touch-ups

Varsity jacket, hat, or shoes that complement your outfits

Want to see examples?

Check out my High School Seniors portfolio to see what Seniors typically wear for this type of session!

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