What to Pack for Your Senior Portrait Session: The Ultimate Checklist for a Stress-Free Shoot
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Teens+Tweens
Seniors
Seniors, as your photographer, it’s my job to make sure you’re planned, prepared, and ready for your session. That’s why I invest a lot of time into client education and suggesting what you can pack for your senior portraits is part of that.
But that’s not all we talk about. I have a whole client HQ where you can download Color Guides, What to Wear Guides, Tips for Picture Perfect Skin and Nails… and we bring it all together at our in-person styling and planning consult— ALL of it is to take the guesswork off your plate. Afterall, you are only a high school senior once, but I’ve been at this a while.
My goal? To make your photo day relaxed, fun, and totally stress-free.
To help you even more, here’s a simple, carefully curated packing checklist packed with essentials and pro tips from years of experience (yes, I have a shoot bag filled with things we’ve needed and not had at past shoots, just in case the needs arise again!).
Keep this guide handy, and you’ll breeze through your session feeling confident and ready to shine… like Natalie, during her spring Encore Session!
💼 Must-Haves (Beyond the Outfits)
- Ironed & ready-to-go clothes – Hang them, don’t fold them! Wrinkles are not welcome.
- Accessories for each look – Jewelry, belts, hats, scarves—whatever you love.
- Shoes for each outfit – AND…
- Comfy walking shoes – Trust me, your feet will thank you between locations, especially during our extended, deluxe sessions!
💡 Photographer’s Pro Tips
These are things you may not think to bring—but will be so glad you did!
Positive vibes – You’ve got this, and I’ve got your back. 😊
Water bottle – Hydration = happy, glowing skin.
Snacks – Especially for longer sessions (nothing that stains, please!).
Hand towel – For dabbing away shine or sweat.
Handheld fan – A lifesaver on warm days or if you’re prone to getting warm under pressure.
Bug spray – Essential for outdoor shoots.
Safety pins & fashion tape – Just in case anything decides to shift.
Bandaids – For unexpected blisters (yes, those cute shoes sometimes rebel).
Hair touch-up tools – Hair ties, bobby pins, brush, or comb.
Makeup touch-up kit – Especially if we don’t have an artist with us that day.
Lip balm – Dry lips can sneak up on you!
Tissues – Great for blotting or the occasional happy tear.
💡 Photographer’s Pro Tips
These are things you may not think to bring—but will be so glad you did!
- Water bottle – Hydration = happy, glowing skin.
- Snacks – Especially for longer sessions (nothing that stains, please!).
- Hand towel – For dabbing away shine or sweat.
- Handheld fan – A lifesaver on warm days or if you’re prone to getting warm under pressure.
- Bug spray – Essential for outdoor shoots.
- Safety pins & fashion tape – Just in case anything decides to shift.
- Bandaids – For unexpected blisters (yes, those cute shoes sometimes rebel).
- Hair touch-up tools – Hair ties, bobby pins, brush, or comb.
- Makeup touch-up kit – Especially if we don’t have an artist with us that day.
- Lip balm – Dry lips can sneak up on you!
- Tissues – Great for blotting or the occasional happy tear
- Wet Wipes– I never leave home without them.
- Downy Wrinkle Releaser– Even being careful some things are prone to wrinkles.
- Positive vibes – You’ve got this, and I’ve got your back. 😊
Bonus Tips
- Pack your outfits and accessories grouped by look to make changing easier.
- Bring a tote, cart, or small suitcase with wheels for easier transport if we’re walking.
- If you have any props you want to include (flowers, books, blankets), toss them in too! My rule of thumb is that it’s better to have and not need than to need and not have!
- And finally—don’t stress. We’ve planned for this, and you’re in great hands!
Let’s make magic!
Need to ask me something or want to book your date? You know how to reach me. <– Click Here!
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