TOP 6 TIPS FOR WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR SENIOR PORTRAITS

Tips from a senior portrait photographer in Columbus, Ohio.

Hi! I’m Brittney of Brittney Cottman Photography, and photographing high school seniors on the cusp of graduation is one of my favorite things ever!

The excitement? Amazing.

The prep work? That’s where stress can creep in, especially when it comes to the question of “What do I wear?!”

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Your senior portraits should look like YOU, not just whatever’s trending this year. That said, here are my top 6 go-to tips to help you feel confident, comfortable, and totally yourself in front of the camera.

1. Dress Like You

Choose outfits that match your personality and style—not something that feels forced or overly trendy. The goal is for you to look back at your photos and still feel like they truly represent you. I recommend bringing:

• One casual outfit you’d actually wear day-to-day

• One dressier option for a more polished look

Want more variety without packing your entire closet? Layers are your best friend. Jackets, sweaters, flannels, vests, or button-downs can be added or removed quickly to create multiple looks from one base outfit.

A few extra tips to keep in mind:

• Stick with well-fitting clothes. Avoid anything too tight, too baggy, or constantly needing adjustment. Comfort shows on camera.

• Choose pieces you love wearing. If you’re always tugging at it in real life, it’ll probably feel the same during your session.

• Think timeless over trendy. Simple, classic pieces tend to age much better and keep your portraits feeling fresh for years.

• Make sure outfits feel cohesive. Even if you bring multiple looks, aim for a similar vibe so everything flows nicely together.

• When in doubt, keep it simple. Clean lines and intentional choices always photograph beautifully.

The more confident and comfortable you feel in your outfit, the more natural and relaxed your photos will be. That’s where the magic really happens!

2. Keep Colors Simple & Flattering

Solid colors and subtle patterns photograph best and keep the focus on you. Try to avoid:

• Busy or bold patterns (they can be distracting and cause camera issues like moiré)

• Neon colors (they can cast strange color tones on your skin)

Choose colors that complement your skin tone, hair, and eyes. If you’re unsure, a quick Google search for your best color palette can be super helpful.

3. Plan Hair, Makeup & Grooming Ahead

A little prep goes a long way:

• Schedule haircuts at least a week before your session

• Practice your hairstyle and makeup beforehand to reduce day-of stress

• Keep makeup natural—heavy or cakey makeup and super-glossy lips tend to show up more in photos

Nails matter too! Neutral polish works best when planning multiple outfits. If you’re wearing press-ons, bring extra glue (trust me on this one 😉).

4. Add Accessories or Meaningful Props

Simple jewelry or accessories (ie- hats, scarves, bags, etc.) can add personality without overpowering your look. Props are also always welcome. Think:

• Letterman jackets

• Sports gear

• Instruments

• Books or items from hobbies

These details help tell the unique story of you right now.

5. Don’t Forget About Shoes

Your shoes may show more than you expect! Make sure they’re:

• Clean

• Coordinated with your outfit

• Seasonally appropriate

I usually recommend skipping flip-flops or dirty sneakers unless they truly fit the vibe of your session.

6. Comfort = Confidence

Try on all your outfits 1–2 weeks before your session. Sit, stand, move around. If something feels off, you’ll have time to swap it out. No last-minute panic required!

When you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows. CONFIDENCE is the secret ingredient to portraits you’ll love for years!

If you've booked a senior session with me, and you’re feeling stuck or want a second opinion on what to wear, I’m always happy to help you plan outfits that feel authentic and photograph beautifully!