The Secrets to Stunning Senior Portraits Every Time

5 Easy Ways to Prepare for Your Senior Photos

Senior pictures are a big deal. You’ve heard the buzz: the hair, the outfits, the glam, the pressure. And sure, it can feel like a lot—especially when everyone expects your personality, style, and entire academic career to shine through in one epic photo shoot.

But don’t stress—I got this. And I’ve got you. These behind-the-scenes tips will help you show up with confidence, style, and a whole lot of excitement for the big day.

1. Yes, It Really Is All About You

Don’t love dresses? Skip ‘em. More of a Vans-and-vibes kinda person? Wear your favorite kicks. I’ve had seniors show up barefoot, in heels, and even those toe-shoe things (respect).

What matters most is that you feel like YOU. Your outfits should reflect your style, your vibe, and your energy. I’ll help you choose outfits and style them to match each location—so whether we’re downtown, in the desert, or popping bottles of sparkling cider at night, you’ll look and feel amazing. Check out these creative senior portrait sessions for girls to see how personal style shines through!

2. Fashion Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated

That one outfit that makes you feel like your most confident self? That’s the one. Whether it’s a flowy dress, a leather jacket, or your go-to jeans and tee—wear what makes you feel strong, confident, or just straight-up you.

Need a little backup? You’ll have access to my exclusive Style Closet, full of outfits, accessories, and extras that photograph beautifully and fit every kind of look—from glam to casual to artsy to edgy.

Pro Tip: Simple is good. If you feel great in it, it’ll look great on camera.

3. Weather Happens—But I Plan for That

I can help style an outfit like a pro, but I haven’t figured out how to control Arizona weather yet. Monsoons, dust storms, 100+ degree days? Been there, rescheduled that.

Here’s the good news: I always keep an eye on the forecast (wind app = my BFF), and I build extra room in my calendar so we can adjust if Mother Nature isn’t cooperating. No stress, no scrambling. Just better skies and better hair.

But sometimes a little unexpected rain turns into pure magic. Want to see what happens when we embrace the weather? Check out these senior pictures in the rain that turned drizzle into a total vibe!

4. Zits? No Problem. Chipped Nails? Yikes.

We’ve all had a monster zit show up at the worst possible time. But don’t worry—I got you! Every image is professionally retouched by hand, so surprise breakouts (yes, even the big ones) won’t be crashing your final gallery. Say goodbye to pimples… but keep that natural, real-you glow.

But here’s the thing: your nails? That’s on you. Chipped polish shows up way more than you think—especially when your hands are near your face. Polished or bare nails are totally fine. Just skip the chipped polish or overgrown nails—unless you’re going for a bold, edgy look that really fits your style.

For a quick glow-up, here are some nail care tips for senior pictures to make sure your hands look just as polished as the rest of you.

5. I Want You to Look Like You—Not an Instagram Filter

I believe in natural retouching. That means I’ll fix flyaways and skin flare-ups, but I’m not about to shrink your nose or erase your freckles. I want you to look like your amazing, confident, authentic self—just like you on your best day.

We can go fun, flirty, editorial, serious, or silly—whatever you’re into. You’re in the spotlight, and we’ll make sure your pictures reflect your true beauty, inside and out.

Ready to Feel Amazing in Front of the Camera?

Now that you’ve got a peek behind the curtain, I hope you’re feeling more confident (and maybe even a little excited!) about your senior pictures. Want more tips, ideas, and outfit inspo? Download your FREE Senior Client Welcome Guide for even more helpful info

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? Same! So if you’re on a roll, check these out next:

→ Check Out What a Full Senior Session Looks Like
→ Best Places to Take Senior Pictures
→ The Ultimate Senior Year Planning Guide: What to Know, What to Do, and When to Do It