As a senior photographer, one of the most frequently asked questions I get is: “What should I bring to my session?”
I want you to feel absolutely prepared for the day of your session. The checklist below should cover everything you need to bring to your senior session.
I recommend packing what you need a day or two before and get a good night of sleep, so you can show up and just enjoy your session!
Your Outfits
Packing up all you need for your session is important to not only make sure you have everything you need but that you keep everything camera ready for your big day. Here are my top tips for packing:
- Hang all elements of an outfit together. So if you have jeans and top, hang the jeans on the horizontal part of the hanger with the top on top of that. That way you keep all elements of the outfit together.
- Place jewelry for each outfit in a separate ziploc bag. Then attach that ziploc bag to the hanger of the outfit the jewelry goes with. This will make sure that your jewelry doesn't get mixed up and you know exactly what you are wearing with what.
- Pack all your undergarments together in a separate bag. Bring more than you need just in case.
- Pack your shoes separately so they don't get anything dirty.
- Place all your clothing in a zip-front garment bag.
- Be as organized as possible to ensure your clothing is camera ready for your session. This also allows you to maximize your session time by being able to change quickly!
Comfortable shoes
It’s likely that your session location will require a few steps here or there to get to, so you’ll probably be walking more than expected. Save your feet and make sure you bring some comfortable slip-on type shoes to change into quickly. You’ll feel so much better walking between photo spots knowing you’re not ruining your good shoes or building blisters on your feet!
Basic touch-up kit
You don’t need to go crazy with the makeup you bring to your shoot. After several years of senior photography, I find there’s not a lot of time to touch up everything. With that in mind, just bring the basics. My recommendations: blotting sheets, powder, lip color, tissues/disposable wipes, and floss. Yes, floss. It might seem random, but you never know when you might have something in your teeth!
Mirror
Tuck a portable mirror into your bag, so you can make sure you’re looking your best in between pictures. If you don’t have a handheld or portable mirror, the front-facing camera on your phone should also do just fine.
Props
Props aren’t necessary for your senior sessions, but if you love the idea of incorporating some creativity in your session, leave room in your bag or car for a few fun things! Some prop ideas include confetti, hats, your favorite sunglasses, or a camera. This is your time, so bring whatever you enjoy, feels important to you, or use in your daily life.
Water bottle
If your session is during our hot weather season(s), make sure you’re staying hydrated! I recommend bringing a bottle of water or a reusable water bottle with a straw attachment, so you don’t ruin your lip color.
Lint roller
If you plan to wear dark, solid-colored clothing for your photos, there might be lint or dog hair that you don’t want showing up in your photos. Your photographer might have one in their camera bag, but just in case, keep a mini lint roller in your car or bag.
Friends, Family member, or Loved One
If this is your first time taking photos, I highly recommend bringing a loved one to your senior session, so you feel more relaxed on the day of your shoot. They’ll help you smile, laugh, and just be yourself.
The most important part of your senior shoot is that you feel like yourself. Do what feels natural for you and just have fun. You’ll enjoy yourself more and you’ll be so much happier with your photos if you do things that make you feel 100% comfortable and showcase you!
