Your senior year is here, and it’s time to celebrate with a portrait session that shows off your unique style and personality! Mose of high schoolers have no experience with a personalized portrait photo session so you probably have a lot of questions. As an Atlanta-based senior photographer, I’m here to help you create memories that will last a lifetime. To make sure your session is as fun and fabulous as you are, here are some tips to help you prepare for your senior portrait photo session!

1. Pick Outfits That Make You Feel Amazing and are you

Your senior portraits are all about showcasing who you are, so pick outfits that make you feel like a superstar! 

Go for a mix of styles—something casual, something fancy, and maybe even something that highlights your hobbies or school spirit. Choose clothes that make you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to have fun.

Tip: Add a pop of color or a playful accessory to your outfit, like a hat or a purse, for an extra touch of fun!

2. Think about meaningful props

It’s always a good idea to include some meaningful moments of your high school years into your session. It can be anything: sports gear, musical instruments, hobby items —like a favorite book—that showcase your passions. Bring outfits you wear during those times.

Tip: Invite a friend or family member to come along! They can help with outfit changes and give you a confidence boost.

3. Glow with Gorgeous Hair and Makeup

Your hair and makeup should highlight your natural beauty and make you feel like the best version of yourself. Whether you’re doing it yourself or booking a pro, go for a look that’s a bit more polished than your everyday style. Keep it fresh, fun, and true to you!

And don’t forget to have your nails done!

4. Pick a Location That Speaks to You

Atlanta is full of awesome spots for your senior portraits, from urban vibe to serene and amazing parks. Choose a location that feels special to you and matches your vibe. Your photographer can help you pick the perfect backdrop that highlights your style and personality.

Tip: Think about spots that hold special memories for you—like a favorite coffee shop, a cool mural, or the park where you’ve spent time with friends.

5. Chat with Your Photographer

I’m there to bring your vision to life, so don’t be shy about sharing your ideas and questions! Whether you have a specific pose in mind or want to highlight a unique aspect of your personality, let me know. Together, you’ll create photos that are totally you. I want you to feel comfortable and have fun!

That’s why planning ahead will help you get more confident and relaxed.

Tip: Share your favorite Pinterest boards, Instagram accounts or inspiration pictures, that you would like to try, ahead of time. It’s a fun way to make sure we’re on the same page!

6. Rest Up and Recharge

Get ready to bring your A-game by getting a good night’s sleep before your shoot. Being well-rested means you’ll be full of energy and ready to shine. Plus, who doesn’t love waking up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the world?

Tip: Dance to your favorite song before the session. It’s a great way to loosen up and get those natural smiles going.

7. Relax and Enjoy the Moment

The key to great photos? Just be yourself and have a blast! Don’t worry about getting every pose just right—I’ll guide you. Focus on enjoying the experience and letting your true personality shine through. The more fun you have, the more it will show in your photos!

8. What you should bring to your session

Bring along a bag of essentials to keep the good vibes going during your session. Toss in a hairbrush, some makeup for touch-ups, and a bottle of water to stay hydrated. 

Add an extra pair of shoes that you’ll feel conformable to walk in.

Your senior portrait session is all about celebrating you! With a little preparation and these tips, you’ll be ready to have an amazing time in front of the camera. This is your moment—enjoy every second of it!

I hope you’ll find these tips to prepare for your senior portrait photo session useful. I can’t wait to capture your joy and help make your senior year unforgettable!

If you have any question

If you have any question, just send me a message and I will be happy to help!

You can also find a lot of tips on my blog 

Laure Pascal-Glorieux is a lifestyle photographer specialized in family, senior and personal branding photography. Laure lives in Atlanta GA.