What NOT to Do for Senior Pictures (And What to Do Instead!)
Senior year is full of big moments — football games, late-night study sessions, prom, and plans for what’s next. Your senior pictures should capture the spirit of this once-in-a-lifetime season. But if you’ve never done a photo session before (and most teens haven’t!), you might not know what to expect. Here are some tips on what NOT to do for your Senior pictures!
As a San Luis Obispo senior photographer who’s worked with tons of awesome grads, here are a few common mistakes to avoid — and some easy tips to make sure your session feels relaxed, confident, and so you.
1. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
Booking your session the week before yearbook photos are due = instant stress. Photographers (especially in busy seasons) often book out weeks or months in advance. Plus, you want time to choose outfits, plan your look, and get excited.
Instead: Reach out early! Do your homework and find out your school’s deadline for submitting your Senior Photo to the yearbook and plan accordingly. In my local area, most Seniors have their photos taken the summer in between junior and senior year.
2. Don’t Try to Be Someone You’re Not
Senior photos aren’t about copying Pinterest poses or doing what everyone else is doing. If something doesn’t feel like you, don’t force it.
Instead: Be yourself! Whether you’re sporty, artsy, quiet, bold, or somewhere in between, your session should reflect you. I’ll help you feel comfortable and confident, and we’ll create images that feel authentic.
3. Don’t Overthink Your Outfit (or Bring Just One)
You don’t have to reinvent your entire closet for this. But showing up with just one outfit — or one you don’t feel great in — can limit your variety and confidence.
Instead: Bring 2–3 options you feel amazing in! I always help my seniors choose outfits that photograph well, reflect their personality, and work with our chosen location. (You’ll also get a style guide with tips!)
4. Don’t Show Up Late
Golden hour waits for no one. Lighting makes a huge difference in your photos, and we want to take full advantage of that dreamy glow.
Instead: Plan to arrive a few minutes early so you can relax, touch up if needed, and ease into the session without feeling rushed.
5. Don’t Worry About Being Awkward
Feeling nervous or unsure in front of the camera is totally normal — especially if this is your first session. But worrying about “what to do with your hands” only makes it harder to loosen up.
Instead: Trust the process! I’ll guide you with relaxed prompts (not stiff poses) that help you feel at ease and bring out your genuine expressions. Think of it more like hanging out than a formal photo shoot.
6. Don’t Skip the Details
Haircuts the day before, chipped nails, or forgetting to clean your glasses — it’s the little things that can show up in your images if you’re not paying attention.
Instead: Do a quick check a few days ahead. Trim or style your hair early enough to settle, make sure nails are neat (neutral colors work great!), and bring essentials like blotting paper or a brush to your session.
7. Don’t Forget to Have Fun
Senior pictures aren’t just a task to check off your to-do list — they’re a celebration of you. This is your moment!
Instead: Bring your favorite playlist, laugh, move, be silly — whatever feels right. My sessions are laid-back and fun, and I promise we’ll capture images that make you feel proud and excited.
Ready to Make Senior Photo Magic?
If you’re looking for a laid-back, fun-loving San Luis Obispo senior photographer who’ll help you feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera, I’d love to chat! You can get in touch here and we’ll plan a session that feels just like you.
