Planning your Senior Photo Session in Denver or the surrounding area, and not sure where to start? You’re in the right place! Your senior session is such a special milestone, and a little preparation can make a huge difference in how your photos look and feel. From what to wear to how to feel comfortable in front of the camera, the right tips can help your session feel fun, confident, and totally you.
As a senior photographer, I’ve worked with so many amazing teens and families, and I’ve learned what truly helps create beautiful, natural photos. Below, I’m sharing 8 of my top tips to help you feel prepared, confident, and excited for your senior session—whether you’re dreaming of mountain views, city vibes, or something in between.
8 Tips for a Successful Senior Photo Session in Denver
When to Schedule Your Senior Photo Session in Denver
Timing is crucial for senior portraits in Colorado. I recommend booking your senior photography session during these optimal times:
Spring (May-June) – Lush greenery, blooming flowers, and long daylight make this an ideal season. However, this is also prom and graduation season, so book early to secure your preferred date.
Late Summer/Early Fall (August-October) – This is the most popular season for senior portraits in Denver. The golden fall colors, warm light, and back-to-school excitement create the perfect atmosphere. Many families prefer fall sessions so portraits are ready for holiday cards and graduation announcements.
Winter Sessions – For seniors who want something unique, winter sessions in Colorado can be magical. Snow-covered landscapes and cozy layered outfits create stunning, editorial-style images.
I recommend scheduling your session at least 6 months in advance, especially for peak fall dates in September and October, when Denver senior photographers’ calendars fill quickly.
Location
Before choosing outfits or making any other plans, the first and most important step is selecting your location. Choosing the right location early on makes planning your senior photo session in Denver much easier and more organized. Every location has its own style, colors, and overall vibe, and that plays a big role in how your final images will look and feel.
Choose Outfits That Make You Feel Comfortable
If you’re not comfortable in what you’re wearing, it will show in your photos. Choose outfits that reflect your personality, whether that’s casual and relaxed, trendy and bold, or classic and simple.
Your senior session should look like you on your best day, not something that feels forced or uncomfortable.
Keep Colors Simple & Skip Busy Patterns During Your Senior Photo Session in Denver
Colorado locations already have a lot going on, so simple colors photograph best and keep the focus on you.
Stick with neutrals like cream, tan, beige, soft gray, denim, white or off-white, and earth tones. You can also add a pop of color with a jacket, shoes, or accessories like a hat or scarf.
Always avoid big logos and loud patterns—they can be distracting, and they will not look good in your photos. Solid colors, light textures (like knits, denim, or linen), and small patterns will help your photos look timeless, even years from now.
Plan for Layers During Your Senior Photo Session in Denver
Colorado weather can change really fast. I’ve had sessions start in bright sunshine and end with clouds rolling in. This can happen often in spring and fall sessions, so I also always bring a sweater in my camera bag in case the weather changes to keep myself warm.
Layers help you stay comfortable and also add variety and visual interest to your photos. Consider bringing jackets, cardigans, scarves, or denim or leather layers, depending on the season and location.
Always Bring More Than One Outfit
I always recommend bringing 2 to 3 outfits for a senior session. Outfit changes are a great way to add variety and capture different sides of your personality. A well-rounded selection might include one casual and comfortable outfit, one dressy or more polished look, and one outfit that truly shows who you are—whether that’s a favorite pair of boots, a sports jersey, or something that feels especially you.
Hair, Makeup, Nails & Eyebrows Matter
Your hands will likely be in a few photos, so keep nails clean and free of chipped polish. You don’t need a professional manicure—simple and clean is perfect. Boys and girls also don’t want long and uneven nails in their photos.
Eyebrows should be cleaned up, but nothing drastic. The goal is a natural, polished look.
Hair and makeup should enhance your natural features, making you feel and look good, nothing drastic. Strong makeup will hide your beautiful features. Always remember, less is more. If you’re unsure, professional hair and makeup can be a great confidence boost for any girl, but the goal should always be a natural and polished look. A natural and polished look will always photograph beautifully and feel timeless.
Coordinate Your Outfit with the Location
Your outfit should work with your chosen location so nothing distracts from you in your final images.
For outdoor locations, think soft colors, natural textures, and flowy fabrics. For urban locations, structured outfits, boots, or jackets often work best.
When your outfit and location complement each other, your photos feel cohesive, intentional, and effortless.
8 Tips for Your Senior Session in Colorado
Feeling overwhelmed or not sure how these tips apply to your session? I am a Denver Senior photographer, and I’d love to help you plan your senior photo session in Denver. Send me a message through my website, and we can talk through your style, vision, and location to make sure your senior photos are everything you’re hoping for. I can’t wait to hear from you if my style is what you’re looking for.
