What Should Guys Wear for Senior Pictures?

Can I let you in on a little secret?

Senior guys are usually the easiest people to photograph... once we actually get them there. Getting them to care about what they're wearing? That's usually the harder part.

The good news is it really doesn't have to be complicated.

My biggest piece of advice is to wear clothes that actually fit. I know that sounds simple, but clothes that are way too baggy or way too tight don't photograph as well as something that fits comfortably. You don't have to show up in a suit if that's not your style. A nice pair of jeans, a solid-colored t-shirt, henley, button-up, or polo is more than enough.

And yes... let's leave the wrinkled gym shirt at home.

I always recommend bringing a couple of different outfits. Start with something a little nicer, then switch into something more casual. It gives your gallery more variety and lets your personality come through instead of every photo looking exactly the same.

If sports have been a big part of your high school years, absolutely bring your gear. Whether it's football, baseball, basketball, golf, wrestling, track, hockey, or anything else you've dedicated your time to, I love incorporating it into your session. Those photos tell your story, and years from now they're usually some of the favorites.

Not into sports? That's completely okay too.

If you're into cars, let's include your car. If you hunt or fish, let's plan a location around that. Play guitar? Bring it. In FFA? Grab your jacket. Whatever has been a big part of your life during high school deserves a place in your senior photos.

One little thing that gets overlooked all the time is shoes. I know... nobody wants to hear it. But your shoes end up in way more photos than you think, so make sure they're clean and actually match what you're wearing. The night before your session, lay everything out, make sure your clothes are clean, and don't forget things like belts, watches, hats, or any sports equipment you're planning to bring.

Now I want to talk to the guys for a second.

If you're already thinking, "I don't like having my picture taken," I promise you're not the first person to tell me that. Honestly, I hear it all the time.

The good news? You don't have to know how to pose, and I'm definitely not going to make you do anything that feels awkward. I'll guide you through the entire session, keep things moving, and before you know it, we'll be done. Most of my senior guys end the session saying, "That actually wasn't as bad as I thought."

And moms... I know you're probably reading this too.

Don't stress if your son isn't overly excited about senior pictures. That's completely normal. My goal isn't to force fake smiles or stiff poses. I want to capture who he is right now, and sometimes the best photos happen in between all the laughing and joking around.

At the end of the day, your senior pictures should look like you. Relaxed. Genuine. Authentic. Not stiff or over-posed.

If you're looking for a senior photographer in Janesville, Edgerton, Beloit, Milton, or anywhere around southern Wisconsin, I'd love to help create a senior session that feels easy, fun, and true to who you are.

I promise... we've got this.