Senior photos, my favorite part of my own graduation experience. Out of everything that happened that last year of school, they made the biggest impact on me and how I felt about myself.

As a senior photographer, one of the most frequently asked questions I get is: “What should I bring to my session?” Even when I get my own photos done, I have that feeling like I'm still missing things I packed.

I want you to feel absolutely prepared for the day of your shoot. This checklist below should cover everything you need to bring along with you to your senior photo session. This list should cover everything you need.

If you can, I recommend packing the night before and getting a good night's sleep so you can show up and just enjoy your session! A big tote bag will work perfectly to fit all your items. Think - family beach bag during summer vacations...that size!

What to Bring to Your Senior Photo Session

1. Cap and Gown, Duh!
   
   First up, your cap & gown. Don’t leave home without it! For the best looking photos, I recommend steaming your gown and stole before your session. You don’t have to get fancy at the dry cleaners, just hang them up on the shower door a few days before your session. The steam from your showers should smooth everything out. During your session, I recommend keeping your cap and gown in a protective garment bag so nothing gets wrinkled.
   

2. An extra outfit/change of clothes
   
   If you plan for your senior shoot with us, you'' have the opportunity to do an outfit change or two during your session. My rule is one outfit for every 30 minutes in front of the camera, but check with your photographer for their process and recommendations. Make sure you neatly pack those outfits away (maybe consider that garment bag again!), including jewelry and other accessories you want to wear.
   

3. Comfy shoes
   
   It’s likely that you have a few locations you want to take photos at, so you’ll probably be walking some. Save your feet and make sure you bring some sandals or slip-on sneakers for the in between moments. You’ll feel so much better walking between photo spots knowing you’re not ruining your good shoes or creating monster blisters on your feet!
   

4. Basic touch-up kit
   
   After 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!
   

5. Mirror
   
   Tuck a small 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 will also do just fine. Just make sure that phone is charged!

A Few Extra Things for Your Senior Shoot

If you want to feel extra prepared, here are a few other things I recommend you bring with you to your session.

1. Props
   
   Props aren’t necessary for your senior photos, but if you love the idea of incorporating some creativity in your session, leave room in your bag for a few fun things! Some prop ideas include awards and medals, favorite beverage, textbooks, your senior ring, hats, your favorite sunglasses, or a ball of sorts. This is your time so bring whatever you enjoy, feels important to you, or use in your daily life.
   
   

2. Water bottle
   
   Make sure you’re staying hydrated! I recommend bringing a bottle of water or a reusable water bottle, so you don’t ruin your lip color. If you know your shoot will be longer than an hour, you can also bring some light snacks to fuel you throughout your session.
   

3. Lint roller
   
   If you plan to wear dark colored clothing for your photo session, 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.
   

4. Small towel
   
   This might feel like a weird one, but many of the seniors I work with want to hop into fountains at the end of their photo sessions. If you end up doing something similar, bring a small, lightweight towel so you can dry your feet and body.

5. Friends, a family member, or loved ones
   
   If this is your first time taking photos, I highly recommend bringing a loved one to your senior shoot so you feel more relaxed on the day of your shoot. They’ll help you smile, laugh and just be yourself. If you end up bringing a pet to your shoot, bringing someone else will absolutely help, so they can keep your pet happy while you take your photos.

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!