Preparation for Senior Sessions
I asked ChatGPT for some ideas on how to prepare for your first senior photoshoot! In addition, I added any necessary changes to make your Senior Session the best it can be. I want you looking and feeling your best. While I can help make you feel at ease during a session, I want you to feel the most confident.
Step-by-Step for Senior Girls
4–6 Weeks Before: Vision + Planning
This is where the magic starts ✨
1. Choose Your Vibe
Think about how you want your photos to feel:
Soft & romantic
Bold & confident
Sporty / casual
Editorial / fashion-forward
Faith-based / meaningful
Nature lover or urban cool
👉 Pinterest boards help a lot. Save outfits, poses, and locations you love.
2. Pick Your Location(s)
Popular options:
Fields, parks, or gardens
Downtown / urban streets
Studio
School, gym, or field (sports!)
Church or meaningful place
Ask your photographer what locations photograph best at your session time.
3–4 Weeks Before: Outfits + Details
3. Plan 2–4 Outfits
Aim for variety:
Casual (jeans + top)
Dressy (flowy dress or jumpsuit)
Statement look (bold jacket, hat, boots)
Personal look (sports uniform, letterman, faith piece)
Outfit Tips
Neutral tones photograph beautifully
Avoid logos & busy patterns
Make sure everything fits comfortably
Steam or iron ahead of time
4. Choose Accessories
Simple jewelry
Hair clips, hats, or scarves
Meaningful items (Bible, cross necklace, class ring)
1–2 Weeks Before: Beauty Prep
5. Hair + Makeup Plan
Decide: professional or DIY
Do a trial run if possible
Keep makeup a little more defined than everyday (camera softens it!)
6. Nails + Brows
Neutral nail colors photograph best
Clean up brows (wax or shape)
Avoid drastic changes right before your session
2–3 Days Before: Skin + Rest
7. Hydrate + Sleep
Drink lots of water
Aim for good sleep (yes, it shows on camera)
8. Skincare Only—No Experiments
No new products
Gentle cleanser + moisturizer
Avoid heavy exfoliation or tanning
Night Before: Final Prep
9. Pack Your Bag
Bring:
All outfits (on hangers)
Shoes + socks
Jewelry & accessories
Lip gloss / lipstick
Hairbrush & bobby pins
Blotting papers or powder
Water
10. Wash Hair (If Needed)
Most hairstyles look best with day-old hair—confirm with your stylist.
Day Of: Confidence Time 💫
11. Eat Something Light
You’ll feel better and have more energy.
12. Trust the Process
Your photographer will guide posing
Movement > stiff posing
Laugh, breathe, be yourself
✨ Confidence is the best accessory you’ll wear.
Author Note
These photos are about who you are in this season—not perfection. Show your personality, your joy, your strength. This is a celebration of how far you’ve come. Obviously, you do NOT have to do all these things to have an amazing session. But I would love to help you feel and look your best!