Young woman with dark hair sits smiling among tall purple lupine flowers in a lush green field wearing a white dress during senior photos.

What Should Girls Wear for Senior Pictures?

(Without Buying a Whole New Closet)


If you're a senior reading this, you're probably excited for your photos.

If you're Mom... you're probably wondering how one teenager can own so many clothes and still say, "I have nothing to wear."


Choosing outfits for senior pictures doesn't have to be stressful.

The goal isn't to completely reinvent your style.


The goal is to look like the best version of yourself.

Years from now, you want to look back at these photos and think, "Yep... that was me."


A young woman in blue graduation gown holds her mortarboard cap, with a stole reading EC 26, outdoors.
Two graduates in blue and red caps and gowns hold hands walking through a green field during high school senior photos in Puyallup, Wa.

Start With Your Favorite Outfit

Instead of buying a bunch of new clothes, start with something you already love.


Ask yourself:

"What outfit makes me feel the most confident?"


That's usually the winner.


If you feel comfortable, you'll naturally look more relaxed in your photos.

Confidence photographs better than any trendy outfit ever could.



Think Timeless, Not Trendy

Trends come and go.

Your senior photos stick around for a long time.


Simple dresses, jeans with a cute top, flowy skirts, sweaters, or a favorite jacket all photograph beautifully.


You don't have to dress fancy.

You just want to look polished and comfortable.



Bring Two Different Looks

I always recommend bringing two outfits.


One that's a little more dressed up.

One that's casual and feels like your everyday style.

Maybe that's a cute dress for one look and jeans with your favorite sweater or denim jacket for the second.



It gives your gallery variety while still feeling like you.



Don't Forget the Little Details


Sometimes it's the little things that get forgotten.

  • Do you want bracelets on?
  • Necklace?
  • Are your shoes clean?
  • Wrinkled clothes?



Wear Shoes You Can Walk In

We'll probably walk a little during your session.

Maybe through a field.

Maybe over a few rocks.

Maybe down a trail.


If your shoes are making your feet miserable after five minutes, it takes the fun out of the session.


Bring a comfy pair to walk between locations if you're wearing heels.


Your feet will thank you later.


Young woman in blue graduation cap and gown holding tassel outdoors, wearing white stole with EC and 26 embroidered.
Young woman in white dress sitting among purple lupine flowers in a sunlit garden field for her senior photo session in Puyallup, Wa.
Joyful girl in blue graduation gown laughing outdoors with mountain backdrop.

Add a Little Personality

Senior photos should celebrate who you are right now.


Love volleyball?

Bring it.


Play guitar?

Let's include it.


Dance, rodeo, books, horses, painting, your Jeep, your dog... whatever makes you you.

Those personal touches are what make your gallery unique.


Jessica's Take

One thing I've noticed over the years is that the seniors who absolutely shine during their session aren't worried about whether their outfit is perfect.


They're laughing.

Trying new things.

Trusting the process.


The outfit helps tell your story, but it isn't the story.

You are.


Young woman in blue graduation cap and gown posing outdoors among wildflowers in soft sunlight during senior photo session in Puyallup, Wa.

Ready to Plan Your Senior Session?


If you're stuck between two outfits, send them my way.

I'm always happy to help you decide what photographs best.


And if you're standing in your room surrounded by clothes thinking, "I literally have nothing to wear..."


I promise... we've all been there


A graduate in blue gown hugs an older woman outdoors, both smiling warmly during a graduation celebration.
Young woman in white dress sitting among purple lupine flowers in a lush green field at golden hour senior photo session in Puyallup, Wa.