Outfit Ideas and Tips from a Green Bay senior photographer
One of the biggest questions I hear from high school seniors (and their parents) is: “What should I wear for my senior pictures?”
Choosing outfits for your senior session can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The right wardrobe choices will help you feel confident, showcase your personality and create timeless images you’ll love long after graduation.
As a Green Bay senior photographer, I always encourage seniors to bring a variety of outfits that reflect who they are while also complementing the beautiful outdoor locations throughout Northeast Wisconsin.
Having multiple looks adds variety to your gallery and gives you plenty of options for graduation announcements, wall art and albums. Here are my top outfit ideas and tips for planning your senior photo session.
Outfit Idea #1: Elevated Casual
An elevated casual outfit is always a great place to start.
Girls might wear:
- A flowy dress
- A cute romper
- Jeans with a stylish blouse
Guys might wear:
- Dark jeans or khakis
- A polo shirt
- A button-down shirt
Choose pieces that feel polished but still comfortable.
Outfit Idea #2: Dress It Up
Bring one outfit that’s a little more formal.
This creates a timeless look that parents especially love for framed portraits.
Ideas include:
Girls:
- Midi or maxi dresses
- A fitted jumpsuit
- Heels or dressy sandals
Guys:
- A blazer
- Chinos
- A button-down shirt
- Dress shoes
Timeless styles tend to age much better than trendy pieces.
Outfit Idea #3: Showcase Your Activities
Senior photos should celebrate who you are right now.
Consider incorporating:
- Sports uniforms
- Dance costumes
- Musical instruments
- Letter jackets
- Club apparel
- College gear
These details personalize your session and tell your story.
Outfit Idea #4: Add a Statement Piece
One bold outfit can add personality and variety.
Think:
- A colorful dress
- A leather jacket
- A trendy hat
- A unique pair of boots
- Layered jewelry
The key is choosing one statement piece without overwhelming the entire outfit.
Green Bay Senior Photos FAQs/Tips
Choose Colors That Photograph Beautifully
Some colors consistently photograph well outdoors in Wisconsin.
Great color choices include:
- Sage green
- Dusty blue
- Cream
- Tan
- Rust
- Burgundy
- Soft pink
- Olive green
- Navy blue
Avoid:
- Neon colors
- Large logos
- Tiny busy patterns
- Wrinkled fabrics
- Clothing that’s too trendy
Neutral tones allow the focus to stay on you.
Don’t Forget the Shoes
Shoes often get overlooked but appear in many images.
Choose footwear that complements your outfit and the location.
Great options include:
Girls:
- White sneakers
- Ankle boots
- Heeled sandals
- Fashion sneakers
Guys:
- Clean sneakers
- Loafers
- Dress shoes
- Casual boots
Avoid worn-out athletic shoes unless they are part of your personal style.
Accessorize Thoughtfully
Accessories can elevate your photos without distracting from your face.
Ideas include:
- Layered necklaces
- Simple earrings
- Bracelets
- A hat
- A denim jacket
- A cardigan
Less is often more.
Let your senior’s personality lead the way. The best senior portraits aren’t about creating a perfect image. They’re about celebrating this exciting season of life before graduation.
Confidence always photographs better than trying to fit a trend. Your outfits can help determine which location will complement your overall vision.
Looking for a Senior Photographer in Green Bay, Wisconsin?
Your senior year only happens once, and your photos should feel authentic, fun and completely unique to you.
At RP Photography, I provide a full-service experience that takes the stress out of planning. From helping you choose outfits to selecting locations and guiding you through natural poses, I’ll help you feel confident every step of the way.
I proudly serve seniors throughout Green Bay, Bellevue, De Pere, Suamico, Howard, Ashwaubenon and Northeast Wisconsin.
Start planning your session HERE!