E:3 Slay The Style Game: Helping Seniors Pick The Perfect Outfits For Their Session
Let’s be honest—one of the biggest hurdles in senior photography isn’t the lighting, the posing, or even the location. It’s the outfit. Parents want timeless. Seniors want trendy. And you? You’re caught in the middle trying to make everyone happy. So, how do you help your clients nail their wardrobe without losing your mind?
In this guide, we’re breaking down everything from colors that pop on camera to layering like a pro and dodging outfit disasters. If you’ve ever had a senior show up in neon stripes or a parent suggest khakis for the 100th time, this post is for you.
Keep It Simple, but Make a Statement
The biggest mistake seniors make? Overthinking their outfit choices. More often than not, they already have everything they need hanging in their closet. I could walk in, pick six solid outfit options immediately, and we’d be set. But, of course, it’s never that easy.
Here’s my advice: keep it simple, but don’t be afraid to add a showpiece. A standout dress, a killer jacket, or a statement accessory can add flair to the session. But don’t go overboard—one or two statement pieces are enough. We’re aiming for variety without overwhelming the senior (or their wallet).
Dress for Comfort and Confidence
Here’s a hard truth: If an outfit doesn’t feel good, it won’t look good in photos. Confidence is key, and that means choosing pieces that feel natural. If you hate wearing dresses, don’t force it just because someone else did it in their photos. The goal is to feel like you, not someone else.
That’s why I encourage my seniors to choose outfits they love and feel comfortable moving in. Sessions involve walking, twirling, sitting, and posing in ways you might not expect—so make sure your clothing allows for movement!
The Three Essential Looks for Every Senior Session
To balance trendy and timeless, I recommend seniors bring a mix of these three styles:
- The Casual Look – This is the everyday, natural style. Think jeans, a cute top, or a simple sundress. These photos should feel effortless and reflect who they are day-to-day.
- The Statement Piece – This is where personality shines. Whether it’s a bold color, a stylish jumpsuit, or a fashion-forward jacket, this look makes for some of the most fun and dynamic shots.
- The Timeless Piece – Parents love these. A classic, polished look (think button-ups, maxi dresses, or well-fitted sweaters) ensures the photos will still look stunning 10 years from now.
A great mix of these three will give a full range of beautiful, varied photos that make both parents and seniors happy.
Color Matters: Choosing the Right Tones
One of the first questions I always get is, What colors look good in photos? Here’s my advice:
✔ Stick to earthy tones and neutral colors with a pop of something bold. ✔ Avoid all-black or all-white wardrobes—variety makes your gallery more dynamic. ✔ If you have a favorite color that makes you feel amazing, wear it! ✔ Consider the location—if your session is in an urban setting, deep or muted colors work great. If it’s a natural backdrop, warm and cool earth tones blend beautifully. ✔ Stay far away from neon. It reflects on the skin and is a nightmare to edit.
If you’re unsure, a great trick is to think about what colors people always compliment you in. That’s usually your color.
Shoes Can Make (or Break) Your Session
Listen up, because this one is huge. Your shoes matter. They should complement your outfit and be practical for the location. If we’re shooting in a field or on a beach, heels are not your friend. Trust me. I always tell my seniors: bring comfy walking shoes and change into the statement shoes when we’re in position.
Also, guys, I love your fresh white sneakers—but they don’t belong with a suit. Let’s pair dress shoes with dress pants and sneakers with casual looks, deal?
Props & Accessories: The Secret to Elevated Photos
If you ever feel awkward in front of the camera, having a prop can be a lifesaver. Not sure what to bring? Think about:
🎸 Musical instruments 🏀 Sports gear 🎓 College merch 👒 Hats, scarves, or fun jackets for layering 🐶 Your pet (yes, bring your dog!)
Accessories give your hands something to do, add personality, and create dynamic shots. If you love jewelry, I always suggest putting each outfit’s accessories in a separate bag to stay organized.
Planning Ahead: The Ultimate Session Prep Checklist
To make sure your session is smooth and stress-free, follow these steps:
✅ Try on every outfit at least a week before your session. ✅ Take off the tags and steam or iron clothes. ✅ Wear shoes that match your outfit and location. ✅ Bring at least one backup outfit in case of a last-minute change. ✅ Keep accessories in small bags labeled for each outfit. ✅ Send me photos of your outfit choices beforehand—I’ll help you refine your look!
Final Thoughts: Confidence Is the Best Outfit
At the end of the day, what you wear should make you feel amazing. Whether you go bold, classic, or somewhere in between, the most important thing is that your confidence shines through.
Want More Styling Tips?
📸 Grab Sarah’s free Style Guide – Download Here
📍 Grab Kellie’s free Posing Guide – Download Here
Help your seniors feel confident in their wardrobe choices, and their images will reflect it!
Links & Resources
💡 Action Step: Create a style guide for your clients with outfit tips, color advice, and accessory suggestions. Let us know how it works by tagging us on Instagram or leaving a comment!
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About Raw Edit
Hosted by Kellie Rochelle and Sarah Monson, two photographers who have been through all the highs and lows, this podcast is your safe space for honest conversations about what it actually takes to thrive in this industry.
Each week, we’re bringing you behind-the-scenes stories, industry insights, and hard-earned lessons—so you can skip the mistakes and fast-track your success!
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