What to Wear for Your Senior Photos in and around Joplin, MO

aprilhurstphotogra
Jun 4
4 min read

Senior photos are a big deal! These snapshots capture a moment in time that you'll reflect on for years, whether in an album or hanging on your wall. Plus, it’s a chance to showcase your unique style and personality as you prepare to take your next big step in life.

I’ll always be ready to offer up lots of advice on what to wear for your senior photos, but remember your session is uniquely YOU so choose outfits that represent your style and show who you are. After all, your senior photos are meant to show your personality so let it shine. Now let’s talk about what to wear! Read along and get ready to look your best. Get your senior wardrobe tips from April Hurst Photography in Webb City, MO.

A young woman in a striped sleeveless top and black shorts admires a sunflower in a garden. Warm evening light, blurred trees in the background.

Understand Your Style

The first step in choosing your outfit is to get a good grasp of your personal style. Are you trendy, classic, sporty, or a bit whimsical?

Think about your go-to outfits for school or hanging with friends. You want your photos to represent the real you—whether that’s a chic dress, a comfy hoodie, or your favorite pair of jeans. When you choose outfits that resonate with your personality, your photos will be more genuine and you'll love the final images.

For instance, if you love a sporty vibe, consider wearing your high school jersey or your favorite athletic wear. If you identify more with a classic style, a tailored blazer over a simple top can create a timeless look. Including multiple outfits is best so include a combination of looks for variety in your photos. Shopping for something new is always fun, but also look in your closet for pieces you already have that you know look great on you!

Young woman in black top and jeans leans against a glass wall, reflection visible. She wears red shoes. Urban background, calm mood.

A person in a blue shirt sits on a white sports car in front of a plane at an airstrip. Bright sky, relaxed mood.

Color Matters

Colors can significantly impact the overall feel of your photos. Before you start rummaging through your closet, think about color palettes that complement Joplin's scenery.

Soft pastels—like baby pink or light blue—pair beautifully with the natural beauty found in places like Joplin's Wildcat Glades. For example, these colors can create a serene atmosphere when surrounded by the lush greenery of the trails. Conversely, bold colors, like bright red or rich teal, can add vibrancy when posed against urban backdrops, such as the lively murals or brick in downtown Joplin.

Tip: Avoid busy patterns or graphics, as they can distract from your face. Instead, opt for solid colors or subtle patterns that still showcase your personality but won't overwhelm the image.

Smiling person in green shirt and gray pants leans against a colorful mural with flowers and abstract shapes. Brick wall background.

Young person in a green leaf-patterned dress smiles while touching their hair, standing in front of a modern building. Mood is calm and contemplative.

Layer It Up

Layering can add depth to your outfit and provide opportunities for different looks in your shoot. A casual T-shirt paired with a stylish jacket or a cardigan can create a relaxed yet polished vibe. Don’t hesitate to include accessories hats, jackets, jewelry! They can add a fun pop to your outfit.

Woman in a knitted sweater and patterned skirt stands in a stream, surrounded by rocks and greenery. Calm expression, soft lighting.

Smiling man with a mustache, wearing a plaid jacket and beige hoodie. He sits outdoors on a concrete surface. April Hurst Photography text.

Include Your Favorite Sport or Activity

A huge part of your high school years has been the activities or sports you love. Definitely include those in your photos, whether that be through showing off your uniform, bringing along a prop, or planning a location that features your activity. Include the football stadium, golf course, gym, or performance hall in your photo session. Those are important parts of your high school journey so let's highlight them.

Golfer squats near a golf ball on a green, holding a club beside a blue flag. Trees and a blue sky form the backdrop.

Cheerleader and football player lie on grass, heads touching. She's in a white uniform, he's in a red jersey. Football and pom-pom beside them.

Comfort is Key

In the excitement of planning, it’s easy to overlook that comfort is crucial for a successful photo shoot. If you feel uncomfortable in your outfit, it will show in your photos.

Aim for clothing that allows you to move freely and feels good against your skin. If you're more of a jeans-and-sneakers person, go for it! Your senior photos should reflect your authentic self, so wear outfits that enable natural poses and expressions. For example, comfortable footwear is essential if you plan to walk on trails or set up around grassy areas.

Young man in a black Nike shirt and jeans sits smiling against a weathered brick wall. Relaxed mood.

Wear Clothing that Flatters You

Again, shopping for something new for photos is always great, but looking through your closet for pieces you know look really great on you and are favorites is a good place to start. We all have those outfits we get lots of compliments on, start there. Find those pieces that help you look your best.

Definitely ask for second opinions on your clothing choices. Ask mom and dad and your best friend what they think. Absolutely ask me for an opinion. All of these people want you to look top notch in your pictures and will give you honest opinions about what looks great on you.

A woman in a blue dress stands on rocks in a forest creek, surrounded by lush greenery.

A woman in an orange top and white shorts stands smiling in a grassy field at sunset. Trees in the background.

Bring Extras

Packing a few extra outfits for your shoot is always a smart idea. This way, you can swap looks and add variety to your photos. I love suggesting both dressy and some casual outfits!

Consider changing into sports gear if you’re an athlete or your favorite band T-shirt for a fun, casual vibe. Bringing a mix of styles not only offers options but also adds a personal touch showcasing your interests.

Young woman in a green dress holds books, ascending stone steps towards wooden double doors. Over-the-shoulder glance; calm mood.

Person in a red football jersey crouches on a tarmac. Behind, a white sports car and small plane. Blue sky, relaxed mood.

For the Girls-Hair and Makeup

Okay girls, this is all for you. For photos, think about your best hair and makeup day, then kick it up a notch. You want to look like you in your photos, but it’s also a great idea to up your game. Have you perfected your own hair and makeup? Then go for it. Do you want to hire a pro? I can give some recommendations should you want to be pampered by a professional for your shoot.

Smiling woman with wavy hair in a white top sits outdoors on a rocky surface.

Capturing Your Journey

Selecting the right outfit for your senior photos is an exciting opportunity to express who you are while creating lasting memories. By understanding your style, choosing complementary colors, layering thoughtfully, and accessorizing wisely, you can ensure a fun and successful photo shoot.

Take the time to select outfits that embody your personality, match your surroundings, and prioritize comfort. With some thought and preparation, you’ll be ready to showcase your high school journey through stunning photographs.

So, gather those outfits, enjoy the process, and get ready to capture your senior memories!

Woman in white lace top smiles amidst pink flowers, creating a cheerful mood. Green leaves form the lush background. April Hurst text visible.

Want to know more about planning your senior photo session? I photograph seniors in the greater Joplin area, including Webb City, Carl Junction, Carthage, and beyond. Find more info HERE.