What to Wear for Senior Photos in Iowa | Outfit Guide
Tips on what to wear for your senior session | Ankeny and Des Moines Metro
Wondering what to wear for senior photos? Choosing the right outfit can make a huge difference in how your images look and feel. Whether you’re going for a casual, dressy, or trendy style, these outfit tips will help you feel confident and look amazing during your senior photography session.
You deserve to look and feel your absolute best for your senior photos! These images will be featured in your yearbook, on social media, in albums, and proudly displayed on walls for years to come. My goal is to make you feel like you just stepped into a Vogue photoshoot, confident, stylish, and ready to own the spotlight! No need to stress about posing or feeling like a model; I’ll be there every step of the way, guiding you into natural, flattering poses that bring out your best.
Kick back, relax, and grab your favorite drink and snack; it’s time to dive into all the best tips to help you rock your upcoming photoshoot! Because choosing what to wear for senior photos doesn’t have to be stressful.
Looking for a personalized Des Moines senior photography experience? Learn more about my senior sessions HERE.
1. Your location matters!
This may seem like a simple step, but it’s the foundation of your photoshoot. Your location sets the tone, influencing your outfit choices, potential props, and how your personality shines through in your photos. Perhaps you envision a lakeside setting with a flowing dress for a romantic feel or a polished, preppy look with shorts and a button-up. Understanding your backdrop helps bring your vision to life. Not sure what to wear or having trouble visualizing the look? No worries, let’s collaborate and find the perfect outfit together!
Not sure where your session should take place? Check out my guide to the best senior photo locations in Des Moines.
2. Plan for multiple outfits.
The number of outfits you bring should match the length of your session. I suggest 1-2 outfits per hour, with a max of 4 for a 2-hour session—this way, you have enough variety without spending too much time changing. Keeping it to four outfits also gives us plenty of time to move around, switch up backgrounds, and even fit in a quick hair change if needed. I just want to make sure you get the most out of your session and leave with a great mix of photos!
Need inspiration? Browse my senior gallery to see what other seniors wore.
3. For the Girls | Hair and Makeup
This one’s crucial! If you’re not happy with your hair or makeup, it’ll show in your photos, no matter how perfect your outfit or location is. Looking and feeling your best is key, and it’s a huge confidence boost!
I recommend booking a professional for hair and makeup, but many of my seniors do an amazing job doing it themselves! With all the tutorials and online resources available, they really nail the look they want. If you’re great with makeup but want some help with hair, especially to withstand the Iowa wind, a professional stylist might be a great option. And don’t forget to bring along some makeup and hairspray for touch-ups throughout your session!
Here’s another tip—don’t forget about your eyebrows and lips! I’ll be taking plenty of close-up shots throughout the session, and these areas can easily be overlooked. If possible, 2-3 days before your shoot, use a towel or lip scrub to gently exfoliate any dry flakes, then follow up with a good moisturizer. Waiting until the day before might not give your lips enough time to fully heal.
One last tip—nails! Since your hands might appear near your face in some close-up shots, make sure your nails are in good shape. I recommend scheduling a manicure and pedicure within the week leading up to your session to ensure your hands look polished and photo-ready. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a bit of pampering!
4. Formal Outfit
Wearing a formal outfit during your senior session can add an extra touch of sophistication and timeless elegance to your photos. Whether it’s a sleek suit or a beautiful dress, formal attire helps elevate the overall look, giving your images a polished, refined feel. It’s a great way to capture a more mature, high-fashion vibe that will stand out in your photos.
5. Flowy Dresses
I highly recommend considering a flowy dress as one of your outfits for your senior session, especially if it aligns with your style. Dresses add beautiful movement to photos, creating a dynamic and graceful feel. Whether you’re shooting in an urban setting or surrounded by nature, a dress can seamlessly complement any backdrop.
Pro tip: Bring your prom dress! It combines formal elegance with a flattering flow, giving your session a unique and elevated feel. Or, for a more edgy look, pair it with high-top shoes and a punk-inspired vibe for a fun twist!
Client Closet: I have a few dresses to borrow from my client closet, this one included!
6. Accessories help elevate any look!
Accessories are a great way to elevate your look and make your session feel truly personal. Whether it’s a simple addition like flowers, a hat, sunglasses, or a jacket—or something bigger, like a chair, you can really make your photos pop! Feel free to include something meaningful, like a family heirloom or even your favorite pet. Want to bring a bike or skateboard? Go for it! This session is all about showcasing you and your personality, so bring whatever makes you feel like you!
7. Bring something that makes you unique
Everyone is unique so bring something that reflects your personality. That could be a sport, a car, a session at the football field. Whatever you think show cases your personality, let’s capture it in your session. Think big, have a boat? Let’s incorporate it. Or we could go small and surround you with your favorite books in a field of flowers. Dream it and I’ll make it happen!
I hope these senior photo outfit ideas help you feel excited and prepared for your session. Together, we’ll create portraits that truly reflect your personality and style.
Ready to plan your dream senior session? Book your senior portraits today.
Favorite Brands and Retailers
Ankeny has lots of small quaint boutiques as well as the Des Moines mall. You also have a lot of online retailers as well. Check some out below!
Looking for even more senior photo outfit ideas? Check out my guide to the best senior photo locations.
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