Your session starts here You only do senior year once - let's do it right. This guide covers everything you need to know before your Tish O'Connor Photography senior photography session so you can show up confident, stylish, and ready to own it.
SENIOR SESSION PREP GUIDE
01 — Plan Your Outfits with Intention
2–3 outfits is the sweet spot (but bring an extra if you’re unsure). Aim for variety so your gallery shows every side of you — not the same look on repeat. Think in categories: casual and comfy, edgy or urban, chic or preppy, sports gear, something semi-dressy, or future college apparel. Variety is what makes a gallery dynamic.
02 — Stay True to Your Style
Trends are fun — but confidence photographs best. Wear what feels like you. Mix casual with dressy, laid-back with elevated. The contrast between looks is what creates a gallery that feels full and intentional.
03 — Bring the Layers
Layers add depth, texture, and movement. Jackets, flannels, sweaters, wraps — they instantly change the vibe of an outfit and give us more variety without a full outfit swap.
04 — Accessories + Personal Touches
Jewelry, hats, sunglasses — bring options. Accessories elevate a look and add personality (yes, guys too).
And don’t forget meaningful extras. Bring what tells your story: flowers, your car, an instrument, sports gear, books, artwork, cap and gown, college pennants, balloons, even your dog. If it represents you, I’ll help incorporate it naturally.
05 — Don’t Forget the Shoes
Shoes matter — they absolutely show in photos. Bring options that match each look, from sneakers to boots to heels. Just make sure you can comfortably walk in them since we’ll be moving around.
06 — Add a Pop of Color
Neutrals are a great base, but a bold detail — colorful sneakers, a statement jacket, a bright lip — can bring energy and make your images stand out.
07 — Skin + Self Care
The week before your session isn’t the time to try something new. Stick to your normal routine, stay hydrated, and get good sleep. If using self-tanner, apply it at least a week ahead so it settles evenly.
08 — Steam + Hang
Iron or steam each outfit and transport them on hangers to keep every piece crisp and photo-ready. Wrinkles are far more noticeable on camera, and we want your gallery to look polished from start to finish. Pro tip: If you have a garment bag, use it to keep everything clean, organized, and protected while traveling to your session.
THE ESSENTIALS
GUYS AND GIRLS BOTH START HERE.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
→ Hair appointments — If you're thinking about a new hairstyle, plan to do a week or so before your session or wait until after. Senior portraits are not the time to experiment! Play with your styles a few days beforehand so you know exactly what you want.
→ Professional hair + makeup is totally optional for my sessions. Do whatever makes you feel most like yourself!
→ Still not sure about outfits? Bring an extra option or two. Sometimes seeing your choices at the location helps you decide — and that is completely okay!
→ Pinterest inspiration — I have a Seniors | What to Wear board on Pinterest linked below. Click over for some outfit inspo before your session!
01 — Outfit Tips
Think variety when you're pulling your looks together — different silhouettes, different vibes, different levels of dressed up. Fitted and comfortable will always photograph better than something you're tugging at all day. Avoid large busy prints, bold logos, and neon colors as these can pull attention away from you. And don't forget — bring a dressier option! How often do you actually get to wear your favorite dress? This is that moment. Want to wear your prom dress? Yes. Absolutely yes.
02 — Hair +Makeup
Do your hair and makeup the way you would for a special occasion — just a little more polished than your everyday look. The goal is to look like the best version of yourself, not a different version. If you're doing your own makeup, focus on a little extra definition around the eyes since they're the first thing you notice in photos. If you're getting professionally done, let your artist know we'll be shooting outdoors so they can adjust for natural light. Natural and glowy always photographs beautifully.
03 — Jewelry + Accessories
Bring options for each outfit — layered necklaces, hoop earrings, rings, bracelets, dainty chains, statement pieces. Don't be afraid to mix it up! Sentimental pieces are always a yes — a necklace from your mom, a bracelet you never take off. Those little details add so much meaning to a gallery. Just make sure nothing is so bold that it competes with your face.
04 — Shoes
Fall is made for boots and booties. Spring and summer are perfect for sandals and strappy heels. Feeling bold? Throw on some trendy rain boots or a fresh pair of Chucks for a totally different vibe. Bring options — at least one pair per outfit — and make sure anything with a heel is something you can actually walk in comfortably!
05— Nails
Your hands will be in a lot of your photos — framing your face, holding your jacket, resting on a wall. Make sure they're looking the way you want! Avoid chipped polish, crazy patterns, or bright colors that might clash with multiple outfits. A French manicure, a light neutral, or bare nails all photograph beautifully.
06 — Undergarments
Wear nude and appropriate undergarments under light colored clothing. If you're wearing a strapless top or dress, make sure you have a strapless bra option. It's a small thing that makes a big difference!
07 — Ponytail holders
Those hair ties on your wrist? Take them off before we start shooting! It's an easy thing to forget but trust me — you'll be glad you remembered.
FOR THE GIRLS
01 — Outfit Tips
Keep it clean, keep it classic, and make sure things actually fit. A well fitted pair of jeans or chinos with a simple button down, a fitted tee, or a casual blazer always photographs great. Avoid overly baggy clothing, busy patterns, and large logos. Bring at least 2 looks — think one casual and one slightly more dressed up. A tie, bowtie, cool sweater, or jacket can go a long way. And yes, iron your clothes and bring them on hangers!
02 — Shoes
Shoes matter more than you think and yes, they show up in photos! Bring a casual pair and a dressier pair to match your different looks. Clean, fresh kicks always make an outfit feel pulled together.
03 — Grooming
Get your haircut at least a week before your session — not the day before — so your hair has time to settle and look natural. If you have facial hair, make sure it's trimmed and clean. Nails should be clean and trimmed. Basically just show up as the most polished, put together version of your everyday self.
04 — Before We Start
Please take your cellphone and wallet out of your pockets before we begin shooting. Items in pockets can show through in photos, and we want those lines looking clean and natural.
For the Guys
Big ideas, real impact.
Here, creativity meets opportunity. Whatever you're building, we're here to help you take the first step with confidence. Driven by curiosity and built on purpose, this is where bold thinking meets thoughtful execution. Let’s create something meaningful together.
OUTFIT INSPO
Need outfit inspiration? I’ve curated Pinterest boards for both guys and girls filled with senior session outfit ideas that photograph beautifully and feel true to you.