SENIOR STYLE
When it comes to styling your senior pictures, keep in mind a few important things. This isn’t just a photo session, this IS your Senior photo session! It’s the perfect opportunity to showcase who you truly are. Your personality should shine through every shot, and your style will help tell the world about the person you’ve become. Whether you go for something classic, trendy, or uniquely yours, the right outfits and accessories can highlight your individuality. But more than anything, it’s your ESSENCE that should come alive in each image — those little details that reflect your spirit and what makes you, YOU. This is your moment to capture memories that represent more than just how you look, but who you truly are.
Outfits
DRESSY
CASUAL
Dressing fancy or your senior photos adds an extra layer of elegance and significance to the occasion. It’s a way to honor the hard work and achievements that led to this moment, making your photos feel timeless and special. A dressier look also boosts your confidence and elevates the overall vibe of the shoot, ensuring you feel proud of the final images that capture such a milestone in your life.
Dressing casual for your senior graduation photos can create a relaxed and authentic vibe that feels true to your everyday style. It allows you to showcase your personality without the pressure of formal attire, and can make the photos feel more natural and comfortable. Whether you opt for a favorite tee, hoodie, or casual jacket, choosing outfits you love will help you feel confident and at ease, making for photos that are both personal and timeless. It’s all about capturing the real you as you step into the next chapter of life!
Here’s a list of casual attire options that could work great for your senior grad photos
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TOPS
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Graphic tees (with your favorite band, quote, or logo)
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Casual button-down shirts (flannel, plaid, or solid colors)
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Plain or patterned sweaters (crewneck or hoodie)
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Long-sleeve shirts (lightweight or fitted)
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Tank tops (for a more relaxed, summer vibe)
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Dress (summer dress, fancy dress)
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Shirts for under suit jackets
BOTTOMS
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Jeans (skinny, straight-leg, or ripped)
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Dress pants, suit pants
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Denim shorts (great for warmer weather)
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Chinos (casual but put-together)
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Skirt
OUTERWEAR
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Denim jacket
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Leather or bomber jacket
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Casual blazer, sport jacket, suit jacket
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Cardigans or light jackets
SHOES
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Sneakers (classic or trendy)
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Flats (comfortable and easygoing)
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Casual boots
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Slip-on shoes (like Vans or Converse)
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Heels (although I would not recommend for comfort reasons)
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You can mix and match to create a laid-back but polished look that feels just right for your personality and the vibe you want to give off in your photos!
Unique Props
Bringing unique props to your senior photo shoot adds a personal touch and helps showcase your individuality. Whether it's an instrument, a favorite book, or a sports item, props can tell a story about who you are and what you love. They not only make the photos more fun and creative but also make the experience more memorable, reflecting your personality and interests in a way that’s uniquely yours. It’s a chance to capture moments that truly represent who you are at this exciting time in your life.
Here are some ideas of props you can bring.
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Volleyball, Baseball, Golf Basketball, Football, Tennis Hockey, Skating, Skiing, Wrestling, Track, Swimming, Diving Pool locations
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Sports Jersey
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Skateboard, rollerblades
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Pet
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Bike, unicycle
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Magic kit, Deck of cards, Favorite games
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Dance Costume
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Instrument(s)
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Costume of your choice
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Your favorite vehicle
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Photo frame with a special picture in it
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Number Balloons
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A favorite Collection
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Scrabble letters
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Your Own Art
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Sidewalk Chalk
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Fave Coffee Shop Drink
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New's paper to look back on in that year or a list of things that happend in your graduating hear
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Lettermans Jacket
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Theater Style
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​Awards & Ribbons
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Signs
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Cheerliding Outfit
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Favorite Books
Prepping and Packing
PREPARING BEFORE YOUR SESSION!
Do not wait until the night before to start preparing. You will have the best outcome with your images if you give yourself enough time to get things picked out. TRUST ME! Preparing for your senior grad photo session is important because it ensures you feel confident and ready to capture your best self. Planning ahead allows you to choose outfits that reflect your personality and style, ensuring you’re happy with how you look on camera. Packing your clothes neatly is equally essential—wrinkled outfits can distract from your overall appearance and take away from the polished, put-together look you want. By folding or hanging your clothes carefully, you avoid wrinkles and ensure that everything looks fresh and sharp, helping you feel relaxed and confident during your photo session.
HAIR AND MAKEUP!
Styling your hair and makeup for your senior photo shoot is crucial because it enhances your features and boosts your confidence. Well-done hair and makeup can help you look your best and create a polished, cohesive look that complements your outfits. Whether you go for a natural, fresh-faced style or something more glam, it's important to feel comfortable in your look. Hair can frame your face and add texture or volume, while makeup can highlight your eyes and even out your skin tone, ensuring you look vibrant and fresh on camera. Proper styling makes a big difference in the final photos, ensuring you capture the best version of yourself as you celebrate this milestone.
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I have seen firsthand what it looks like when my client shows up and pulls their outfits from a duffle bag and everything is wrinkled. I have witnessed hair that wasn't done or eye brows that were red because they JUST got them tweezed.OH, and a big one is fingernail paint chipping off. Some of those oversights can be edited for an additional charge, but some can't. I have heard from other photographers' experiences that clients who were not prepared do not like their photos and expect a refund. I would like to be as transparent as possible and inform you that I do not offer discounts or accept returns for issues related to hair, cosmetics, or wardrobe choices. Please keep this in mind as you make this important investment in capturing your milestone.
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You are going to look and feel amazing and because of that, your photos are going to also be amazing!
Acessories
Accessorizing is fun because it lets you express your personality through unique details. It’s a chance to add flair and make your outfit truly your own.
Here’s a list of accessory ideas to elevate any outfit:
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Statement necklaces
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Stackable bracelets or bangles
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Layered rings
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Trendy scarves or shawls
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Cool jackets (like leather, sports, school letterman jacket, trendy, unique or maybe your own styled creation)
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Hats (like fedoras, baseball caps, beanies, or wide-brimmed hats)
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Sunglasses
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Belts (wide or thin)
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Hair accessories (clips, headbands)
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Watches
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Hoop or stud earrings
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Personalized nameplates or charm necklaces
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Footwear (colorful sneakers, boots, or sandals with embellishments, heels)
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Each accessory can add that extra touch of personality to your look!
Location
When planning your senior graduation photo shoot, choosing the right location is key to capturing the essence of this milestone. The location should reflect your personality, interests, or future aspirations, whether that’s a favorite park, a meaningful landmark, or even your high school campus. Consider the backdrop—natural settings like gardens, beaches, or city streets can offer unique and visually striking elements, while indoor locations can provide a more controlled environment for creative, intimate shots. It’s important to choose a place where you’ll feel comfortable and confident, as the location will play a significant role in setting the tone and mood of your photos. Be sure to think about lighting and time of day, as these factors can enhance the overall aesthetic of your shoot.​​
Please keep in mind that some areas in the Twin Cities require a permit to photograph on their property and parking rates may apply as well.
Rachael Hundley Photography
does not cover the cost of most locations.
Location Types
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Beaches & Lakes (Think water sports action shots!)
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Urban Areas (City streets, alleyways, brick road paths, graffiti)
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Farms (Wildflowers, animals, barns, farmhouses, ponds)
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Woods & Tree Farms (Tall evergreen trees, beautiful birch trees, paths, nature, wildlife)
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Parks (Grass with a variety of greenery, trees, hills, docks, ponds, walking paths)
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Gardens, Sculpture Gardens, Botanical Gardens (Lots of color and pop, paths)
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Scenic Locations (Rolling hills, wild grasses, sunsets, nature)
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Cityscapes (City lights from a distance, bridges)
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Museums & Sculpture Parks (Unique look, moody in some areas, indoor and outdoor)
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Rooftops (Up-high views, blue skies, cityscape buildings)