Getting ready for your senior photos doesn’t have to be stressful. With the ultimate senior picture checklist, you’ll know exactly what to do in the days leading up to your session so you can feel confident, prepared, and ready to shine. Think of it as your prep guide, broken down into a simple, easy-to-follow checklist for everything from outfits to the little details that make a big difference.
One Week Before Your Senior Pictures
✔️ Try on every single outfit (including the right undergarments) so you know everything fits comfortably.
✔️ Gather all your finishing touches—shoes, jewelry, and accessories—so nothing gets left behind.
✔️ Freshen up your nails (hands and toes). Whether you go neutral, polished, or keep them simple, just make sure they’re neat and photo-ready.
✔️ Start thinking through your hair and makeup plan.
✔️ Collect any props you’d like to bring along, such as your letterman jacket, cap & gown, or fresh flowers. Props are totally optional—bring them only if they feel meaningful to you.
✔️ Map out your session location and create a rough timeline so you know how long it takes to get ready, drive, park, and walk in.
The Day Before Senior Pictures
✔️ Prep your clothes by steaming, ironing, and hanging them so they’re ready to go.
✔️ Pack up your accessories and shoes in one spot so you don’t have to scramble last minute.
✔️ Double-check your nails (hands and feet). Your fingers will show up in way more photos than you’d expect!
✔️ Get a good night’s sleep so you feel rested and ready for your session.
Senior Picture Checklist for the Day of Your Session
✔️ Ask me which outfit to wear first so you can plan your getting-ready order.
✔️ Give yourself a little cushion for parking and walking in—sometimes there are fees too.
✔️ Eat a good meal and drink water. Sessions take more energy than you’d expect, and no one wants to run on empty.
What to Bring to Your Senior Photo Session
✔️ A brush and touch-up makeup.
✔️ If it’s warm, a handheld fan or small towel to dab sweat.
✔️ Water to stay hydrated.
✔️ Most importantly—relax and have fun 🤩 This is your day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need props for senior pictures?
Props are totally optional! Bring items that feel meaningful to you, like a letterman jacket, cap & gown, or flowers, but don’t feel pressured—your personality is the most important part of the photos.
What should I avoid wearing?
Avoid clothes with busy logos, distracting patterns, or anything that feels uncomfortable. Solid colors or subtle patterns usually photograph best.
How far in advance should I book my senior session?
It’s best to book a few months in advance to secure your preferred dates, especially if you want seasonal locations like wildflowers, peonies, or Oregon coast sunsets.
Can I bring multiple outfits?
Absolutely! Changing outfits adds variety to your session. Use your ultimate senior picture checklist to plan which outfits to bring and the order to wear them.
What time of day is best for outdoor senior photos?
Golden hour—about an hour before sunset—is my favorite for soft, warm light. We can work around whatever, but some locations I only photograph at certain times, so be sure to reach out with any questions.
Conclusion
When you follow this ultimate senior picture checklist, you’ll show up feeling prepared, confident, and ready to enjoy your photo session. All your preparation will be done ahead of time, which means you can relax, focus on the fun, celebrate this milestone, and walk away with photos you’ll love for years to come.
Want more details and the why for some of these things? Check out this post here: https://jenwhitephoto.com/how-to-prepare-for-senior-pictures/
And be sure to read my wardrobe tips here: https://jenwhitephoto.com/what-to-wear-for-senior-pictures-in-oregon/
Wardrobe tips for guys can be found here
Are you a parent reading this for your kids? Here’s how to prep for a session with younger kids
Here are some of my favorite location ideas.
Ready to book your session? Contact me here or check out my online booking calendar (Just be sure to reach out if you don’t see a date that works–I have some backups for weather and can probably get you in!)
