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Senior photos were one of the things I looked forward to most about graduating. Out of everything that happened my last year of school, they made graduating finally feel “real”.
As a senior photographer, one of the most frequently asked questions I get is: “What should I bring to my session?” Even when I was getting my own photos done, I remember feeling like I was still missing things I packed.
I want you to feel absolutely prepared for the day of your shoot. This checklist below should cover everything you need to bring to your senior photos Whether you’re booking a 30-minute mini-session or a full-blown senior session, this list should cover everything you need.
If you can, I recommend packing what you need the night before and get a good night of sleep, so you can show up and just enjoy your session! A big tote bag will do. You know…like the ones they always give as free gifts with a purchase at Victoria’s Secret? That size!
What to Bring to Your Senior Photo Session
Your regalia
Okay, first your cap & gown. Don’t leave your place without it! For the best, cleanest-looking photos, I recommend steaming your gown and stole before your session. You don’t have to get fancy at the dry cleaners or those wrinkle-release sprays. Just hang them up on the shower door a few days before your session. The steam from your showers should smooth everything out. During your session, I recommend keeping your regalia in a garment bag so nothing gets wrinkled.An extra outfit/change of clothes
If you plan for your senior shoot to last more than 30 minutes, you’re likely to have the opportunity to do an outfit change or two in your session. My rule of thumb is one outfit for every 30 minutes in front of the camera but check with your photographer for their guidelines and recommendations. Make sure you neatly pack those outfits away (maybe consider that garment bag again!), including jewelry and other accessories you want to wear.Comfortable shoes
It’s likely that your campus has a few locations you want to take photos at, so you’ll probably be walking to a variety of locations. Save your feet and make sure you bring some sandals or slip-on sneakers. You’ll feel so much better walking between photo spots knowing you’re not ruining your good shoes or building blisters on your feet!Basic touch-up kit
You don’t need to go crazy with the makeup you bring to your shoot. After years of senior photography, I find there’s not a lot of time to touch up everything. With that in mind, just bring the basics. My recommendations: blotting sheets, powder, lip color, tissues/disposable wipes, and floss. Yes, floss. It might seem random, but you never know when you might have something in your teeth!Mirror
Tuck a portable mirror into your bag, so you can make sure you’re looking your best in between pictures. If you don’t have a handheld or portable mirror, the front-facing camera on your phone should also do just fine. Just make sure that phone is charged!
A Few Extra Things for Your Senior Shoot
If you’re in for a longer portrait session or you just want to feel extra prepared, here are a few other things I recommend you bring with you to your session.
Props
Props aren’t necessary for your portrait photos, but if you love the idea of incorporating some creativity in your session, leave room in your bag or car for a few fun things! Some prop ideas include biodegradable confetti, coffee from your favorite shop, textbooks, your senior ring, hats, your favorite sunglasses, or a camera. This is your time, so bring whatever you enjoy, feels important to you, or use in your daily life.Water bottle
If your shoot will be in hot weather, make sure you’re staying hydrated! I recommend bringing a bottle of water or a reusable water bottle with a straw attachment, so you don’t ruin your lip color. If you know your shoot will be longer than an hour, you can also bring some light snacks to fuel you throughout your session.Lint roller
If you plan to wear dark, solid-colored clothing for your photos, there might be lint or dog hair that you don’t want showing up in your photos. Your photographer might have one in their camera bag, but just in case, keep a mini lint roller in your car or bag.Small towel
This might feel like a weird one, but many of the seniors I work with want to hop into fountains at the end of their photo sessions. If you end up doing something similar, bring a small, lightweight swimmer’s towel so you can dry your feet and body.Friends, family member, or loved one
If this is your first time taking photos, I highly recommend bringing a loved one to your senior shoot, so you feel more relaxed on the day of your shoot. They’ll help you smile, laugh, and just be yourself. If you end up bringing a pet to your shoot, bringing someone else will absolutely help, so they can keep your pet happy while you take your photos.
The most important part of your senior shoot is that you feel like yourself. Do what feels natural for you and just have fun. You’ll enjoy yourself more and you’ll be so much happier with your photos if you do things that make you feel 100% comfortable and showcase you!
Need some help getting ready for your senior photos? Head to this post about how to get ready for a graduation shoot!
