One thing about me being a Chicago Senior Photographer is that I will never let you get in front of the camera looking anything less than STUNNING. Prior to even getting in front of the camera is all about the prep work. Hair, makeup, attitude, and most importantly what you choose to wear. Basically, what I’m trying to say is what you wear to your senior portrait session really makes a difference. That’s why knowing what to wear to your senior portrait session is something that as a Chicago Senior Photographer I help you with. No fashion emergencies here!!

Determine What Kind of Senior Portrait Session You Want

First things first, you’re going to need to decide the kind of senior portrait session you’re looking for. Are you looking for something more formal and elegant? Or maybe something a bit more relaxed and lifestyle? These will play a role, especially when it comes to choosing what to wear to your senior portrait session. Ideally, you want to have the vibe prior to reaching out to your Senior Photographer. However, if you need help figuring out your style, that is what I’m here for!

Remember To Be Comfortable

One of the most important tips that I give all my seniors while prepping for their senior portraits is to make sure you’re choosing outfits that are comfortable! The last thing you want is to wear something that is not breathable and moveable and stiff. This alone can make for a very uncomfortable experience posing in front of the camera. Hate to break it to ya too, but uncomfortableness shows on camera. So when it comes to deciding what to wear to your senior portraits, make sure it’s something that YOU feel comfortable in. 

Don’t Be Afraid To Step Outside The Box

When it comes to choosing what to wear to your senior portraits, I always say to not be afraid to step outside the box. You’re freakin’ graduating and this is such a huge milestone and exciting time in your life. If there is a time to try something cool, new, and different, now would be it!

Bring At Least Two Outfit Options

Ideally, I would also suggest bringing along at least two different outfit options. A more casual, laid-back option and a more formal fancy option. Doing this, you’re able to have the best of both worlds and get two different vibes for your senior portrait session. As a Chicago Senior Photographer, working with my seniors means making ample enough time to be able to fit two outfit options during your senior portrait session. However, if you’re feeling feisty and are wanting to do more than two outfits, you absolutely can. This could include maybe cap and gown photos as well! If this is the case, just always make sure that you’re communicating with your photographer ahead of time. This will ensure that you have enough time for all outfits and that your photographer can account for this time accordingly. 

Pay Attention To Your Location/Backdrop

Another important component of any senior portrait session is your backdrop and location. Your backdrop and location can really influence what to wear to your senior portrait session. An example is if you’re going to be in a busy setting like in a coffee shop or in Downtown Chicago, you want to aim towards more simple designs. Wearing something a bit busier and “loud”, while cute, can distract from your images and make things seem WAY too busy in your photos. Ideally, you want to be able to look back at your senior portraits and be able to focus on you, the subject! 

I also recommend making sure that you don’t pick similar tones as your backdrop as well. An example of this is if it’s Fall and you’re wanting a woodsy vibe for your senior portraits, aim to wear complimentary colors for reds, browns, and oranges. If you’re wearing the same tones as your backdrop, sometimes you tend to get lost and blend in and that’s NOT what you want. These are your senior portraits, time to stand out!!

When In Doubt, Stick With Neutrals

If you’re having trouble with what to wear to your senior portrait session then I always recommend leaning towards neutrals. Shades of white, cream, beige, tan, brown, camel, and black are some of the ones that look great on any skin tone and photograph beautifully. This is a surefire way to always look good in front of the camera and not worry too much about your outfits. However, if you’re wanting to stand out and be a bit more unique during your senior portraits this may not be the option for you. 

Avoid Heavy Patterns/Logos/Neons

I am all for supporting my seniors in whatever they choose to wear. At the end of the day, these are your photos. However, what kind of Chicago Senior Photographer would I be if I didn’t give you all the tips on what to do and not to do for your senior portraits? Typically, I recommend straying away from heavy patterns, logos, and neon colors for your outfit choices. Heavy patterns mean patterns that are overwhelming and a bit complex to look at. If they look complex in person, imagine what they will look like on camera. Same thing with neons. While you may LOVE neon green, this isn’t the most photogenic color sometimes so we typically recommend staying away from neons at least for your senior portraits.

Logos are typically also a big no-no just because we want things to look clean and crisp. That means not getting distracted by name brands and giant logos, which does happen if you wear them in your senior portraits. You want to choose pieces that are classic, complimentary to you, and look FABULOUS!

Don’t Be Afraid To Accessorize

When it comes to what to wear to your portrait session, I also always tell my seniors to not be afraid to accessorize! Accessories when done correctly enhance your outfit even more and make things POP. So don’t be afraid to wear a statement necklace with a more simple top or layer pieces together to get a more boho feel. Accessories ARE your BFF. 

Props, Props, Props! 

While not something you physically wear to your senior portrait session, props are a great way to enhance your senior photos. Things such as your school jersey, flag, banner, cap and gown, and sparkling cider are some of the many things you can bring along to your senior portraits. It draws attention to you and your photos and makes things a bit more fun which I am ALL for. 

Get In Touch! | Chicagoland Senior Photographer

Hey, I’m Abbe! Your Chicago Senior Photographer is ready to have you feeling your absolute BEST during your senior photos. If you loved reading this blog all about Wren and Rose Photography’s Senior Rep Program, then inquire here, and let’s get groovy!

What To Wear To Your Senior Portrait Session

At the end of the day, what you wear to your senior portrait session is entirely up to you. It’s a moment that’s all about you, celebrating a huge accomplishment. You deserve to feel and LOOK your best, so whatever you have to wear to do that I say GO FOR IT!