How to Prepare for Your Senior Portrait Session (Without Stressing Out)

Case Studios Photography
Aug 20
2 min read

So—you’ve booked your senior session (yay!) and now you’re wondering...“What do I do to get ready?” Don’t worry. I’ve walked hundreds of Kansas City seniors through this, and I’m sharing all my best tips to help you feel confident, prepared, and excited for session day.

Here’s your no-stress prep guide for senior photos with Case Studios Photography:

👗 1. Plan Your Outfits Ahead of Time

Think variety:

Something casual
Something dressy
Something true to your everyday style
Something you wouldn’t wear every day but LOVE in photos

Stick to colors that flatter your skin tone, and avoid loud logos, neon, or anything that doesn’t feel like you. (I’ll help you with this during your consult—including personalized color guidance!)

💄 2. Hair + Makeup Tips

If you’re doing professional hair and makeup—amazing! Choose someone who keeps things natural and enhances your features.
If you’re doing it yourself, keep it simple. You want to look like you on your best day—not like you’re headed to prom.
Bring a touch-up kit: lip gloss, powder, bobby pins, etc.
Don’t try a new product or hairstyle the day of. Trust me.

📅 3. Don’t Wing It—Prep the Day Before

✔ Steam or iron your clothes

✔ Pack your outfits, shoes, accessories in order

✔ Bring extra shoes, socks, and anything you may need

✔ Clean your nails (you’ll be using your hands a lot in poses!)

✔ Get a good night’s sleep and drink water—your skin will thank you

🐶 4. Bring the Fun Extras

Want to include your pet? Your instrument? Your car, hobby gear, or best friend? YES. Bring what makes your session yours. These little touches tell your story and add so much personality to your photos.

📸 5. Trust Me—You’re Going to Rock It

You don’t need to know how to pose or what to do. That’s my job! All you need to do is show up, have fun, and trust the process. I’ll guide you through the entire session and make sure you feel confident and comfortable the whole way through.