What to Wear for your Senior Portrait Session
Mindset
Have fun! We’re going to make you look great and you’ll have a great time. That’s why you chose KWP.
Relax. We like to think we’re rather cool and easy to get along with. Plus, we help you with posing, so there’s no pressure on you.
Style
You’re unique and beautiful. Follow our guidelines but be yourself in how you dress.
Be fashionable. Wear clothing that’s stylish and put a lot of thought into your choices. This is a unique opportunity and we want you to look amazing!
Clothing
We suggest you bring 3-4 outfits, including layers such as sweaters and other types or layering clothes.
Group your outfits together on hangers. Make sure items are ironed and ready to go.
Plan on changing quickly. The faster you change, the more time we have to photograph and the more photo choices you’ll have later. Please note that you may have to change in the car or in a public rest room depending on the location.
Make sure you’re comfortable in your clothing and that it flatters you. This will ensure that you like how you look when viewing your photos.
If you’re self-conscious about your arms, avoid sleeveless or cap-sleeve shirts and tank tops, as they tend to make arms look fuller.
Avoid stripes and plaid. Solid colors photograph much better than busy patterns.
Bring a variety of colors and mix the level of styles. Some should be dressy, some dressy-casual, and some casual.
Stay away from short shorts, tight fitted clothing, fluorescent colors and flip flops. Be prepared to do all kinds of poses including standing, sitting and laying.
If you’re comfortable in dresses, bring them! They photograph really well and offer a nice variety from your other casual clothing choices. We can mix dressy and casual dresses for some great looks.
Jewelry & Accessories
Jewelry and accessories can really add the extra finishing touches to your outfits. It's best to keep it simple, but a nice necklace, bracelet, hat, scarf or even sunglasses will add variety and personality to your photos.
Props
They’re great! Bring props that help show who you are. Some popular choices are:
Sports equipment (soccer ball, basketball, softball bat, etc.)
Sports uniforms
Musical instruments
Activity related items (dance, art, school clubs, etc.)
Glasses
If you wear glasses, we will do our best to watch for glare while shooting your photos. If you have transition glasses, please bring a pair that are not transition. Transition glasses will be dark outside and you do not want that for your photos.
Tanning
Tan lines are a distraction and take away from your photos. We suggest you use a tanning bed and varied swimsuit tops to minimize any existing tan lines. If you choose to tan outside or in a tanning bed, don’t overdo it. We don’t want you looking orange and leathery.
Complexion
Makeup helps a lot here, but we do retouch your photos, so please don’t be concerned about minor breakouts. We have you covered!
Braces
If desired, we can remove braces in Photoshop for an extra charge. Otherwise, try not to worry about them. Give a natural smile and enjoy yourself. A good smile with braces is far better than the awkward smile that comes when you try to hide them.
Undergarments
Please make sure the colors of your undergarment coordinate well with your outfits and don’t show through your clothing. If you need a strapless, please bring one to your session. Tucking or moving straps will not always work or give the most pleasing look. Check ahead of time to ensure that undergarments don’t leave unpleasing lines underneath your clothing.
Finger & Toe Nails
If you paint your nails, make sure they’re done well for your session. Chipped nail paint will show and distract from you. Avoid bright colors that will distract from you and may not work with all your outfits. Instead, opt for basic or natural tones.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to email (click here), call or text: 412-605-4746. We will be happy to give you advice on outfits and accessories.
