How do you choose outfits for your senior session?

I think that Gen Z and Gen Alpha are taking it back to Pinterest, Sierra did! She utilized Pinterest not just for outfits but the location, some poses she wanted to try and overall inspo for her session. As a photographer I think it's so important to utilize these as well. Sharing a board with a senior, seeing their ideas come together, seeing their style- all of these things will not only help you get to know your client but to help feel out their personality and style that they want to show throughout their gallery. 

I always send out a prep guide ahead of the session for my seniors to talk about what to look for and how to bring things together. I recommend starting with what's in your closet now. Pull out the key outfits you LOVE and that you always find yourself going back to. From the most formal or stylish to the most comfortable. Lay them out and really determine exactly what you love about them: is it the fit, the color, the vibe, or the brand?  When you go shopping for some new items keep these outfits in mind (photos in your camera roll are helpful) to find other pieces or outfits that mimic those same feelings and fit. 

Shop for accessories in the same trip if you can to make sure you're matching the tones and details the best you can. From shoes, to jewelry to accessories like a cute bag or fun hat. Create an entire ensemble that we can capture in multiple ways. Adding accessories or props like a bouquet of flowers just brings the style up a notch. 

And for the record, Sierra said that she "strongly agrees" that buying new outfits for her session was important and that the prep guide was also very helpful. So you didn't just take my word for it!