Preparing for Your Senior Portrait Session: Tips and Trends
Your senior year is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone—and your senior portrait session should reflect the excitement, growth, and individuality that come with it. At KLJ Studios, we believe that senior portraits are about more than just marking the end of high school. They capture who you are at this moment, and they celebrate all you've accomplished. To help you feel confident and prepared, we’ve compiled our top tips and the latest trends in senior photography.
1. Choose Outfits That Reflect Your Personality
Your wardrobe is a key part of your story. Think beyond just "dressing up." Choose a mix of outfits that show different sides of your personality:
Classic Look: A nice dress, suit, or polished outfit for timeless portraits.
Casual & Cool: Something you feel great in, like your favorite jeans and tee or hoodie.
Personal Statement: A uniform, jersey, band outfit, or something that reflects your interests or passions.
Trendy Style: Keep an eye on current fashion trends—neutral tones, layers, and textured fabrics photograph especially well.
Pro tip: Avoid distracting logos and overly bright neon colors. They can draw attention away from your face and won't age as gracefully in print.
2. Bring Meaningful Props
Props aren’t just accessories—they can add layers of personality and meaning to your portraits. Consider bringing:
Your musical instrument
Sports gear or letterman jacket
Books or art supplies
A pet (if well-behaved!)
Items related to your future goals (college flag, acceptance letter, etc.)
These elements help tell your story and create images that feel authentic.
3. Stay Ahead of Photography Trends
KLJ Studios stays on the cutting edge of senior portrait styles while always prioritizing timeless quality. Some current trends we love:
Golden Hour Lighting: That warm, dreamy glow just before sunset adds magic to outdoor portraits.
Cinematic Edits: Dramatic lighting, soft contrast, and subtle film-style coloring for a modern, magazine-worthy finish.
Storytelling Sequences: A set of images that capture a day-in-the-life vibe, showing different moods and looks.
Fine Art Touches: Posing that feels more intentional, with soft expressions and artistic composition.
We blend these trends with professional editing and high-end printing so your images look amazing now and decades from now.
4. Prep Ahead of Time
Here are a few things to do before your session:
Get a good night’s sleep the night before.
Drink water and moisturize your skin for a healthy glow.
Iron your clothes and bring them on hangers.
Practice your smile in the mirror—yes, really! Know what feels natural.
Bring backup outfits in case of unexpected weather or last-minute changes.
And don’t worry—we’ll help guide your poses and expressions, so you never feel awkward or unsure.
5. Make It a Celebration
Your portrait session should feel fun, not stressful. Bring a friend or family member who hypes you up. Play your favorite music. Embrace the experience! Years from now, you’ll remember how it felt to be 17 or 18 as much as how it looked.
6. Don’t Forget to Print
Digital photos are great for sharing, but prints are what turn your portraits into family treasures. At KLJ Studios, we offer custom albums, wall art, and beautifully crafted fine art prints that honor your story and preserve this special season of life.
Are you ready to step in front of the camera and capture your senior year in a way that’s 100% you? Let’s plan a session that celebrates everything you’ve become—and everything that’s ahead.
Reach out to us today to book your senior portrait session with KLJ Studios!