What to Pack for Your Senior Photo Session (Checklist for High School Seniors)

Beautiful Senior Girl smiling and standing in nature with her horse

You’ve got the date. You’ve got some outfit ideas floating in your notes app. And now you’re wondering... what the heck do I actually need to bring?

Great question — because having a few key things packed (and avoiding a few mistakes) can make your senior session feel way more relaxed and fun. I’ve photographed tons of seniors across Metro Detroit — and this list comes straight from experience.

Whether you’re prepping in Washington Township, Grosse Pointe, Birmingham, or Bloomfield Hills, this list will help you show up confident, ready, and fully YOU.

Senior Session Essentials Checklist

1. Extra Outfits

Bring one backup outfit, minimum. Sometimes something feels off when you try it on outside — or maybe the vibe doesn’t match the location. Having options makes the whole session feel easier.

2. Comfy Shoes

Yes, wear the cute ones for photos — but bring flats or sneakers to walk in between spots. Your feet (and your face) will thank you.

Carly looking stunning in.a downtown setting for her senior pictures

3. Touch-Up Stuff

Lip gloss, a brush, hair ties, bobby pins, and maybe a little powder or blotting paper. Basically: anything that’ll help you feel fresh and photo-ready.

4. Water + Snacks

Sounds simple, but don’t skip it. A granola bar or favorite snack goes a long way — especially during golden hour or longer sessions.

Senior girls senior session dream of sunset pictures on a rooftop coming true.

5. Props That Actually Matter

If it’s part of your life or story, bring it. A jersey, pointe shoes, your instrument, a letterman jacket, or your pup. It doesn’t need to be “Pinterest-y” — just personal.

6. Confidence Boosters

That jacket you always reach for. Your go-to playlist. A bestie who hypes you up. Whatever helps you relax and feel like yourself — bring that.

The sun is peaking through in the background perfectly timed for Elise's Senior Session.

Want the Full Printable Version and more?

This post gives you the basics — but the printable checklist goes even further:

• What not to bring (yes, there are a few!)

• Genius weather-day prep ideas

• Makeup do’s and don’ts

• Outfit planning tips

• A quick checklist just for moms too 😉

  
  

📥 Grab your full checklist here →You’ll get the printable, plus a few extra tips straight from me — no fluff, just the good stuff.

Senior girl smiling in her white dress smiling beautiful during her senior session.

Let’s Make Your Session Feel Like You

You don’t need to know how to pose. You don’t need to have it all figured out. You just need to show up — I’ll guide you the whole way.

📅 Click here to schedule your senior photo consultation in Metro Detroit — and we’ll plan something that fits you perfectly.

Check out my Senior Girls Portfolio here