5. When in Doubt, Choose a Bold Solid


A solid color top or dress in an amazing color is always a great look for portraits. Choose a shade that accentuates your eyes and skin tone, or one that you frequently get compliments on. Solid colored clothing puts the focus on you, which is why it's always a good choice for your senior portrait session. 

Arroyo Grande senior portraits
San Luis Obispo senior portraits
Arroyo Grande senior portraits
Pismo Beach senior portraits
San Luis Obispo senior portraits
Arroyo Grande senior portraits
Pismo Beach senior portraits

Lots of clients ask me what they should wear to their senior portrait session. The most important thing, I tell them, is to choose outfits that they LOVE and feel GREAT in! We've all heard the standard "rules" about what to wear and avoid for portrait sessions (no patterns, don't wear white or black), but many of those rules are outdated and no longer apply. 


Here are five of my favorite looks for senior portraits. Whatever you choose, be sure to add your own personality to your outfits so we'll capture your unique essence during your shoot. Your senior portraits should reflect this special time in your life and show off the amazing person you are!

Arroyo Grande senior portraits

Tracy Waitkus Photography 805.264.2771

​Avila Beach, California

Copyright © Tracy Waitkus Photography. All rights reserved.

San Luis Obispo senior portraits

Top Looks for Senior Portraits

May 31, 2017

3. Bring Accessories


Incorporating a bold bracelet, necklace, hat, or scarf to your outfit can add texture and interest to your portraits. I encourage my senior clients to bring several accessories to their shoot. You can put them on and take them off as we're shooting to add variety to your portraits. But avoid over-accessorizing. One great piece that you love and that works with your outfit is perfect. 

4. Go For Super Casual


A super casual outfit can look really gorgeous and effortless, especially with a coordinated location choice. Your favorite tee shirt paired with shorts or jeans can look amazing for senior portraits as long as they are neat and flattering. Having awesome hair and makeup is important so that you look styled and well put-together. Something about wearing your favorite short or jeans just makes you feel good, which comes across in your portraits!

Arroyo Grande senior portraits

1. Don't Be Afraid of Prints/Patterns


In the past, photographers recommended avoiding prints and patterned clothing, since they can be distracting. But you CAN wear prints and patterns if you do it the right way. Look for medium-sized prints and keep the rest of your look simple. Location choice also plays an important role in making patterns pop in your portraits, so I'll work with you to plan a cohesive shoot that takes into account your outfit selections.

Pismo Beach senior portraits
Pismo Beach senior portraits

2. Ties for Guys


Neck ties and bow ties can add personality and character to your portraits. They can be dressed down with jeans and sneakers for a casual, quirky look, or dressed up with slacks and a vest. Ties can also add a pop of color and draw attention to your face. During your shoot, I can take shots with and without your tie to get a variety of looks from one outfit.