10 Things to Bring to Your Senior Photos: A Checklist

Your senior photos are coming up fast! You’ve probably spent a lot of time planning what to wear — but have you thought about what else to bring?

After photographing so many senior sessions over the years, I’ve gathered a go-to list of what to pack (plus some helpful tips and tricks to make the day stress-free).

At the end of this post, you’ll find a screenshot-friendly checklist to keep everything organized as you prep for your session.

Let’s dive in!

What to Pack for Your Senior Photos

1. Outfits

Plan at least two outfits — one dressy, one casual — and make sure they reflect your personality. Confidence always shines through in photos.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget shoes that match the vibe of each outfit. The wrong pair can throw off the whole look.

2. Accessories

Accessories take your outfit from good to great. Think jewelry, ties, hats, watches — anything that adds a personal flair.
Pro Tip: Organize accessories by outfit and pack them in labeled bags so nothing gets lost in the shuffle.

3. Varsity Jackets or School Gear

If you were involved in sports, academics, or clubs, bring something that represents that — varsity jackets, school sweaters, even class rings. These personal touches help tell your high school story.

4. Props

This is where it gets fun! Bring props that highlight your interests — sports gear, instruments, art supplies, chess boards, books… anything that represents what made your high school years uniquely yours.
Pro Tip: Let your photographer know what you’re bringing in advance so they can plan creative ways to incorporate your props into the session.

5. Makeup Touch-Up Kit + Hair Products

Pack the essentials — lipstick, powder, eyelash glue if you’re wearing falsies. And don’t forget hair products! Wind is real in the Bay Area, so bring a comb and anything you need to tame flyaways.

6. A Mirror

If we’re shooting on location, a handheld mirror is a lifesaver. Phone selfie mode isn’t always reliable, and walking back to the car every time isn’t ideal.

7. Emergency Photo Kit

I call this the “oh no!” kit. It’s a small bag with all the just-in-case items:

• Lint roller
• Stain remover pen
• Floss
• Safety pins
• Blotting paper
• Bobby pins
• Makeup wipes
• Fashion tape

If anything goes wrong, you’re covered. If you’re looking for an oh no kit premade, check out this one on Amazon.

8. Pets

If you’re an animal lover, bring your pet, whatever kind they may be! Pets of all kinds are welcome during senior sessions. We’ve seen it all: dogs, cats, birds, even reptiles. Just make sure someone is available to help out while we’re taking your solo portraits.

9. A Bestie

Bring someone who makes you feel comfortable — a best friend or sibling. They can help carry things, hype you up, and assist with outfit changes.

10. Your Parents

Why not knock out family photos while you’re already dressed up? This is a great opportunity to capture some portraits with your family too. Plus, it’s always nice to have them there to cheer you on and help out during your solo session.

11. Optional: Book Cap and Gown Photos for the Spring

Most schools don’t distribute cap and gown regalia until the spring — which means you won’t have them in time for a fall senior session.

The good news? You can always book a spring session just for cap and gown portraits before graduation. It’s a great way to document the full circle moment and make the most of that milestone!

 

The Ultimate Senior Photo Checklist

Here’s your printable and screenshot-able checklist to help you prep from now until session day:

One Month Before:

• Practice hair and makeup, or book a professional artist
• Schedule haircut and color if that’s your thing (especially for girls)
• Start brainstorming outfits
  

One Week Before:

• Haircut for guys
• Wear sunscreen daily to avoid tan lines
• Pull together outfits and accessories
  

Day Before:

• Iron or steam your outfits
• Pair shoes and accessories with each outfit
  
• Gather props, varsity jackets, and school gear
  
• Clean, trim, or paint your nails
  
• Pack your photo emergency kit
  

Day Of:

• Shave (guys)
• Eat a full meal before your session
• Double-check that you have everything:
  

📱 Packing List (SCREENSHOT THIS:)

• Outfits
• Undergarments
• Shoes
• Jewelry + accessoriesProps (sports, music, clubs, career goals)
• Makeup touch-up bag (powder, lipstick, hair products)
• Mirror
• Emergency photo kit
• Water bottle with a straw
• Snack
  

The Last Thing You Need: A Good Attitude

You’ve planned and prepared — now it’s time to enjoy it.

Once we get to the location, take a deep breath and let go of the stress. Senior portraits should be fun and memorable. If you’re feeling relaxed and confident, your photos will absolutely show it.

If you haven’t booked your Bay Area senior photos yet, I’d love to hear from you! Reach out here to get started.