Class of 2027, your summer session is coming up, and I already know the question on your mind. It's the same one I get from every senior and every mom, usually within the first five minutes: what should I wear?
Good news. You don't have to figure this out alone. Styling is part of every session I shoot, and we'll plan your looks together before you ever stand in front of my camera. But if you want to start pulling ideas now (and honestly, the seniors who start early always have the best sessions), here's how I think about summer outfits in San Antonio.
(elevated casual picture)
start with how you actually dress
The best senior photos look like you on your best day, not like someone else's Pinterest board. If you live in oversized tees and sneakers, we're not putting you in a formal dress for every look. If you love getting dressed up, let's lean into that. Your photos should make your friends say "that is SO you," not "who is that?"
So before you buy anything, go through your own closet. Pull the three outfits you feel most confident in. That's our starting point.
(flowy dress picture)
(denim picture)
plan for the heat
it's gonna be hot
I'm not going to pretend a July session in San Antonio is breezy. We schedule summer sessions around golden hour for a reason: the light is gorgeous and the temperature finally drops below the surface of the sun. Even so, fabric matters.
Lightweight, breathable fabrics photograph beautifully and keep you comfortable. Linen, cotton, flowy dresses, anything with movement. A dress that catches a little breeze at sunset is one of my favorite things to shoot. Heavy denim jackets and layered looks are better saved for your fall session.
bring a mix
Not a theme
I recommend four looks for a full session:
One dressy. A dress you love, or slacks and a button-down that fit well. This is the photo that ends up framed in your parents' hallway for the next thirty years, so make it count.
One casual. Your favorite jeans, a top you reach for constantly. This is usually the look where seniors relax and the real smiles show up.
One that's just you. Game jersey, dance costume, your letterman jacket, the band tee you've worn to forty concerts. The thing that tells your story.
One wildcard. Something a little bolder than you'd normally try. A color you love but never wear, a hat, a statement piece. You're already here. Take the swing.
what to skip
Tiny patterns or even large, busy prints can get weird on camera, so when in doubt, solids and simple textures win. Big logos pull attention away from your face, and neon colors bounce onto your skin in ways nobody loves. None of these are hard rules, and we'll talk through anything you're unsure about. That's literally what the styling part of your session prep is for.
(picture showing hands or feet)
don't forget the details
Shoes matter more than you think, since full-length shots are happening. Bring options. Get a manicure if your hands will be visible (e.g., when holding a flower, a football, or a guitar). And if you're getting a haircut, schedule it at least a week before your session, so it has time to settle.
the part where i tell you to stop stressing
Here's the truth: I've photographed hundreds of seniors, and the outfit has never once been what made or broke a session. Confidence is. And confidence comes from feeling prepared, which is exactly why we plan all of this together before your date.
Class of 2027 summer sessions are booking now, and the golden hour slots go first. If you've been waiting for a sign, this is it. Book your session today!