I know getting photos done isn’t the favorite activity of a lot dudes, especially high schoolers. This style guide is meant to make the photoshoot planning process a little easier and take some stress off of the whole process. I think knowing what to wear for photos isn’t usually obvious for the boys and choosing outfits is not the same exciting experience like it is for girls. Here are some tips and tricks to guide you (or your son, boyfriend, fiance, etc.) on how to dress and prepare for professional photos.

Okay, so what do you wear?

I’m going to base these options off of my Standard Senior Session that includes three outfits. Usually I tell the girls to pick one casual outfit, one formal outfit, and one fun outfit. We can sort of use the same model for the guys.

Casual

For casual, I think the easiest and best option for guys is a solid colored tee or sweatshirt, jeans or non-athletic shorts, and some nice sneakers. If you want to spice it up a little, add a layer like a flannel or denim jacket.

Formal

Okay this one is a little tough. I will always recommend to moms that they let their kiddos be themselves. Don’t make your son wear a suit and tie to his senior pics if that’s not him. He will be so much more comfortable wearing something that he feels like himself in. I would opt for just a button down shirt, a nice polo, or a quarter zip. Don’t go too crazy with the dress shoes.

Fun

Fun can really be whatever you want it to be. This could be your football jersey (if you don’t play, you could still wear a jersey from your favorite pro team!), band uniform, or a t-shirt from the college you’ll be attending! For the fashion or sneaker guys, this is your time to let your collection shine. This could be a fun time to add in a prop like an instrument you play, a skateboard, your car, or your dog.

Some More Tips

Comfort + Confidence

Wear clothes that flatter your body shape and make you feel confident. If you’re feeling your best during your photoshoot, you’ll love the outcome of your photos. Don’t make your guys wear stuff they don’t like, because that already starts the photoshoot off on a bad foot.

Shoes

When it comes to shoes, I definitely recommend wearing something comfortable. Whatever shoe you wear, I would try to make sure that they aren’t dirty on top. I would try to avoid super athletic looking sneakers, and maybe go for something like Converse or Vans if you’re trying to keep it casual.

Textures + Layers

Texture and layers can add a lot of dimension to photos. Add a layering piece like a jacket or flannel. Find a sweater with a little bit of texture. In fact, I think we don’t see enough guys in cable knit sweaters. A guy can never go wrong with a cable knit sweater.

Be Yourself, but Elevated

Choose outfits that feel like you, but just a bit more polished. Think of it as dressing for a special occasion, even if it’s not a formal one.

Do’s + Dont’s

Yes!

• Neutrals and earthy tones
• Denim jeans and jackets
• Clean and plain baseball hats or beanies
• Knits and layers
• Fashionable sneakers

Leave it at home

• Neons
• Bright primary colors (red, royal blue, yellow, grass green)
• Restricting fabrics (stiff clothing means stiff photos)
• Anything with logos or writing
• Running shoes or dirty sneakers
• Sunglasses

Helpful Hints

• Start early! This whole process is less stressful if you don’t procrastinate
• Try to pick outfits that suit the backdrop (or vice versa)
• Opt for multiple outfits to switch up the vibe
• Go on a shopping spree and blame it on me!
• Bring whatever hair stuff you need to fix it between locations if needed
• Find outfits you like on Pinterest and try to replicate them

Place to Shop

• H&M
• GAP
• Abercrombie & Fitch
• Old Navy

From the Pinterest Board