How to Look (and Feel) Your Best in Senior Pictures

Look Good, Feel Good: 7 Senior Picture Prep Tips That Work

Nobody shows up camera-ready straight out of bed. (And if you do, congrats—you’re a unicorn.) But I promise there are a few easy things you can do ahead of time that’ll make you feel more confident and look like your best self in front of the camera.

Let’s break it down.

1. Schedule Your Haircut Wisely

Trim those ends, shape those layers, but whatever you do—don’t get a brand-new cut the day before your shoot. If you’re changing up your style or color, give it 1–2 weeks to settle so you’re not surprised by how it photographs.

Also: dry shampoo is your friend. Clean hair can be slippery and flat, so don’t be afraid to work with day-old strands. If you’re doing professional hair and makeup (more on that in a sec), they’ll make sure everything stays put through wind, heat, or whatever Arizona decides to throw at us.

→ Check out the full guide to Hair & Makeup for Senior Pictures »

2. The “Still Looks Like You” Makeup Rule

This is not the time to experiment with smoky eyes or TikTok contour hacks. If you wear makeup regularly, great! If you don’t—also great! Think of it like a filter… but real-life and way more flattering.

I always recommend professional hair and makeup for your senior pictures. It’s one less thing to stress about, and trust me—pro artists know what works under camera lighting. You’ll still look like you, just with a little extra glow.

→ Makeup Tips for Senior Pictures That Actually Work »
(Coming Soon!)

3. Nails Matter (Yes, Really)

You’d be surprised how often hands sneak into photos—resting on your shoulder, holding a cap, tossing confetti, etc.
So if your nails are chipped or your cuticles are looking like they’ve been through a desert storm… now’s the time for a quick clean-up.

Whether you go for bold colors, soft neutrals, or just tidy and clear—neat nails = polished photos.

→ Read: The Best Nail Tips for Senior Pictures »

4. If You’re Getting a Spray Tan, Read This

First: YES, a faux tan can look amazing in photos. But you’ve gotta do it right. No orange hands, no patchy ankles, and definitely no “I fell asleep on my towel and now I’m streaky.”

Timing matters (don’t do it the day before), prep matters (exfoliate, girl), and so does what you wear during the tan.

→ Read Spray Tan Tips from Christina, Our Favorite Tan Pro »

5. This One’s for the Guys

Don’t think you’re off the hook! You might not be booking a blowout, but there are a few things that go a long way:

• Don’t cut your hair the day before. Give it a few days to grow in naturally.
• Clean, moisturized skin > dry, flaky close-ups.
• Chapstick. Always.
• Wrinkle-free clothes (and maybe a lint roller).
• Trimmed nails. Seriously. No gremlin claws.

→ Senior Picture Prep for Guys »
(Coming Soon!)

6. Try On Everything—Shoes Too!

I always suggest a full dress rehearsal the week before your shoot. Try on every outfit you’re bringing—accessories, shoes, the whole look.

• Can you move in it?
• Does it wrinkle the second you sit down?
• Do the shoes make you wobble like a baby giraffe?

This is how we avoid wardrobe regrets on session day.

7. Pack a Tiny Emergency Kit

You don’t need to bring your whole bathroom, but a few key items can save the day:

• Blotting sheets or powder
• Lip gloss
• Hair tie or bobby pins
• Safety pins (for rogue straps or sleeves)
• A water bottle and snack
• Comfy shoes for walking between spots

Bonus: If you’re wearing heels, toss a pair of slides or sneakers in the car for breaks between shots.

Bonus Tip—Confidence Is the Best Thing You Can Bring

You’ve planned the outfits. You’ve got your hair & makeup handled. Now it’s time to show up, have fun, and let your personality lead the way.

I’ll help with the posing, the angles, and yes—even the “what do I do with my hands” moments.

You don’t need to stress or second-guess yourself. This is your time.

Ready to Make This Fun (and Easy)?

This whole process is designed to take the pressure off—so you can enjoy your session without worrying about what you forgot. Start with the Senior Client Welcome Guide, but don’t panic! We’ll go over everything—from outfits to locations to artwork—before the big day!

Keep the Ideas Coming…

Want even more inspo for your session? Follow along on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook—I’m always posting the latest looks, posing ideas, favorite location, and real client sessions to help you plan the senior pictures of your dreams!

Got a few more tabs open? Same! If you’re on a planning roll, check these out next:

→ What to Wear for Senior Pictures
→ Best Locations for East Valley Senior Pictures
→ The Truth About School Yearbook Photos