Band Senior Photos That Bring the Music—and the Personality

Instruments, Layers, and Legendary Curls: Jack’s Session Had It All

Some seniors show up with props. Jack showed up with a whole vibe.

From his French horn to his Converse to those legendary curls, this guy brought personality, talent, and style to every part of his senior photo session—and somehow made it all look effortless. Whether we were going full formal or kicking it casual, Jack made it clear: this was going to be a cool shoot. Band seniors, take notes.

Dressed to Impress: French Horn & Formalwear

We kicked things off strong. Jack showed up in a classic suit, French horn in hand, looking like he was ready for an audition or a magazine cover—possibly both. (FYI: if you’re looking for formal outfit ideas for senior guys, I’ve got a whole blog post packed with inspiration.) It wasn’t just a “let’s get this prop in a few shots” moment. That horn is a huge part of his high school experience, so we made it a true feature.

He nailed that confident-but-chill energy right away. Coat slung over the shoulder, soft evening light behind him, and that signature Jack smile? Total standout. (And yes, we included his favorite quote from The Perks of Being a Wallflower, because of course we did.)

Graduation Glow-Up: Cap, Gown & Big Dreams

Next up: cap and gown, because hello, it’s graduation! But instead of doing the usual, Jack kept his formal outfit on and layered the gown over it—zero time wasted, max style impact.

He held his French horn with pride, creating a set of images that felt like a true celebration of all the years of practice, early rehearsals, and band concerts. He’s heading to ASU to study urban planning and dreams of being an ecological researcher (yep, he’s got brains too). These shots captured that mix of nostalgia and excitement that hits during senior year.

Laid-Back Looks That Still Bring the Style

Once we wrapped up the formal shots, Jack changed into a textured knit sweater and jeans—easy, relaxed, but still totally polished. We found a brick and wood backdrop that worked perfectly with the earthy tones in his outfit and let his thoughtful side shine through.

Then we layered on a cozy shearling-collared jacket. The textures, the natural light, the way he casually leaned into the moment—it all came together to give us some of the most genuine, grounded shots of the session. No stiff posing. No overthinking. Just relaxed vibes and a guy who knows how to own the moment without trying too hard.

Rugged Rocks, Casual Kicks, and Senior Year Energy

Outfit three brought the vibes: olive jacket, black tee, and classic Converse for a short hike into a nearby outdoor spot. The golden grasses and rocky background matched his earthy palette, and we got to see that quiet confidence come through in a big way.

The soft light and natural setting brought out something calm and reflective in these shots—like he was pausing to take it all in before heading off into his next big adventure. And let’s be honest, the outfit was a 10/10 for that Arizona sunset glow.

Rockstar Vibes & Legendary Curls

Jack’s last outfit was pure personality. Black shirt, olive-and-black flannel, and yes, those curls front and center. It gave us a bit of a rockstar vibe, especially when he leaned on a railing with that “I know who I am” energy.

Then came the sunglasses. With one quick addition, Jack went from chill senior to instant cool guy—and honestly? He crushed it. The lighting, the layers, the attitude… these pics are the kind you print big, frame on the wall, and stare at like, “Yep. That’s my kid.”

How We Got So Much Variety (With Only 3 Outfit Changes)

Let’s break it down:

• Started in his suit and did all the formal photos—with and without the instrument
• Added the cap & gown on top for graduation shots
• Took off the jacket for more relaxed poses in the same look
• Changed into the sweater + jeans, then layered with the jacket
• Last change: just swapped his top and shoes for flannel + Converse

That’s only 3 actual outfit changes… but 8 completely different looks. That’s the magic of good planning (and knowing when to layer instead of change everything). Plus, we used a public restroom to make changing easier—not glamorous, but super effective.

Returning Families = The Best Compliment

Jack’s not the first in his family I’ve photographed—his older brother Noah had his own senior photoshoot in Downtown Chandler. When families come back for their second (or third!) round of senior portraits, it’s the biggest compliment I could ask for!

Each session becomes part celebration, part reunion. I already know the family, the style, the vibe—and we get to focus on what makes this grad special. It’s fun. It’s meaningful. And it always results in something the whole family loves.

When Mom (Katy) mentioned wanting a special piece that included both of her boys, I already had the perfect plan. Since I photographed Noah’s senior session a few years ago, I had all of his images ready to go—making it super easy to design a custom storyboard that showcased both of her grads.

It’s one of the best parts of working with returning families… I already know your style, your story, and your favorites!

Senior Photography for the Dreamers & the Doers

Whether you’re in marching band, jazz, orchestra—or you just want your photos to show off who you are—your senior session should feel like something more. Jack’s session had music, emotion, style, and fun. And yours will too.

Grab my Senior Client Welcome Guide for all the details (plus ideas for outfits, props, locations, and more). I’ll help you create a session that’s stress-free, full of variety, and—let’s be real—totally photo-worthy.

Keep the Ideas Coming…

Want even more inspo for senior pictures? 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? Yep, me too! So if you’re on a roll, check these out next:

→ Ideas for Guys Senior Pictures
→ Best Places to Take Senior Pictures
→ How to Choose the Best Location for Senior Pictures