Looking for senior picture ideas for girls as a high school senior or parent of one?
Want to look back at your pictures and photoshoot memories fondly and not cringe?
I assume you’re nodding at this point.
Not having cringey senior photos is the bare minimum, but sadly, some people aren’t able to experience that. Ask your family. There are probably some people with photos they aren’t proud of!
But times are changing! Correction—they have changed.
Unlike in the past, you don’t have to be restricted to a pop-up studio at your school, use generic props, or have outfits dictated for you.
At least not when you work with me!
Oh, hey. I’m Stacy! A high school senior portrait photographer in Fargo, North Dakota, and Moorhead, Minnesota. My job: capturing your natural beauty and personality.
This blog includes everything you need to know about gaining some high school senior picture ideas. I’m offering up two location ideas, one idea on camera angles, and two outfit ideas.
But as always, the beauty of being your own individual is that YOU get to choose to use this information or not! I can only speak to what I know and will always encourage you to be the best version of yourself.
Side note: if you haven’t booked your senior photo session yet, let’s get it done now! Book your senior session with me now while it’s on your mind.
Now, onto why you’re here. Let’s get into it!
1. Senior Picture Location Idea: Downtown
A city always has a vibe, and it never goes out of style, whether you’re on the street, looking down from a rooftop, or in an industrial-style building.
Downtown always has a beautiful blend of modern and heritage buildings. So, you can always find a style you love that complements your personality and outfit!
2. Senior Picture Location Idea: In Nature
Human beings have and will always be drawn to nature. And for good reason! It’s naturally beautiful and holds so many restorative benefits.
And you don’t have to be a camper or hiker to appreciate nature.
Maybe you love spending time by or on a lake.
Maybe you look forward to sunflower season every year.
Maybe you’re obsessed with fall and being amongst the changing leaves.
Tapping into a location you enjoy will make your pictures more special—while we’re capturing them and when you look back at them for years to come!
3. Senior Picture Camera Angle Idea: Whatever Works For You!
No, there aren’t any secret camera angles that models and photographers are hush-hush about.
The best camera angle that works for someone completely depends on the person!
That’s why it’s best to move around, change up your outfits, and switch locations during your senior photo session. It can mix up the vibe, bring out your personality, and capture you in different poses.
It’s all about you, showing off your natural beauty, and seeing your face. No matter what angle—from the side, face on, looking back over your shoulder.
4. Senior Picture Outfit Idea: Denim
Now, I’d never tell someone what to wear and what not to wear. My perspective is from my photography experience: what photographs best, and what styles stand the test of time?
As far as style goes, keeping outfits classic and simple is always a safe bet. Denim jeans, for example, will always be in style. Especially when paired with a classic top or tank.
5. Senior Picture Outfit Idea: Personal Touches
News flash: classic doesn’t mean you must be boring or basic!
You can add unique details to bring out your personality. Like pairing your favorite leather jacket, knit, or shoes. Those little inflections can be so simple in the moment but will spark much joy when you look back on your pictures.
6. BONUS Senior Picture Outfit Idea: What To And What Not To Wear
As for my photography take, I put together a list of things that do and don’t photograph well.
What to wear for your senior photos:
- Fabrics
Smooth and natural fabrics are ideal, but textured fabric that isn’t too loud shouldn’t get in the way.
- Patterns
Try to avoid busy and loud patterns.
- Colors
Solid, neutral, and dark colors that work well with your skin tone, eye color, and features.
- Fit
Modest, asymmetrical, and round necklines are the most flattering because they naturally bring attention back up to the eyes.
- Accessories
Wear minimal jewelry and accessories—think of wearing the items you rock daily!
- Makeup and Hair
Keep it simple and highlight your best, most natural self. Sticking with your regular hair and makeup looks is always the best way to go.
- Overall Style
Wear what you feel best in! If it doesn’t feel good, it ain’t it.
If you’re ticking off most of the things on this list, we’ll be good to go!
What not to wear for your senior photos:
- Fabrics
Avoid shiny, metallic, and loud fabrics that pick up the light and photograph in different ways and distract from you.
- Patterns
Stripes and any flashy patterns that will compete against showing off your natural beauty are a no for me.
- Colors
Leave your bright and bold colors at home—they can sometimes reflect on your skin and change the tone.
- Fit
Nothing too tight or too big—always go with your true size so you can show off your natural shape.
- Accessories
Don’t go overboard and wear your entire collection.
- Makeup and Hair
Your makeup shouldn’t be too dark or heavy, so we can see your beautiful, natural face. Same goes for hair—this isn’t the time to try out a complex and risk-taking style.
- Overall Style
Your senior photo day is not the day to try out a whole new look. I know it’s SO fun to experiment, but save that for another time!
Cut most or all of these things out, and I can guarantee that your smile and personality will shine through!
Capture Senior Pictures You’re Proud Of
I hope you can use some or all of the senior picture ideas for girls when planning your senior photo session!
The most important piece of information: Always be yourself, show off your unique personality, and highlight your natural beauty.
It’s important to find a photographer that embraces that and lets you be you. Check out my portfolio for girls, for guys, and my Instagram (give me a follow, since you’re already there!) to see how I’ve showcased my previous clients.
If you’re in Fargo or Moorhead, I’d love to help capture your senior photos! At the very least, I hope this blog gave you more clarity on how to have classic senior photos to cherish for the rest of your life.
