Outfit planning is honestly one of the most fun parts of preparing for your senior session, but I know it can also feel a little overwhelming at first! What do you wear? How many outfits? What colors work on the beach? I get these questions all the time from seniors and their parents, so I am breaking it all down right here. Let this be your complete guide to dressing for your HHI senior session!
Start Here: How Many Outfits Should You Bring?
My recommendation is two to three outfits. This is the sweet spot that gives your gallery real variety without making your session feel rushed. Each outfit creates a completely different look and mood, which means you end up with a gallery that tells a more complete story of who you are right now.
Think of it this way. One outfit might be soft and romantic, one might be bold and confident, and one might be casual and effortless. When those three are combined in a single gallery, you have images for every purpose. Instagram, your mom’s wall, your graduation announcement, all of it!
Colors That Photograph Beautifully on HHI
The Hilton Head backdrop is warm, golden, and full of natural tones. Certain colors work beautifully against the beach and the Lowcountry and certain colors fight against it. Here is what I recommend:
Colors that work beautifully:
– Neutral tones: cream, ivory, tan, taupe, and warm white are always stunning
– Soft pastels: blush, sage green, dusty blue, and lavender photograph beautifully in natural light
– Earthy tones: rust, terracotta, olive, and warm browns complement the Lowcountry palette perfectly
– Bold jewel tones: emerald, navy, burgundy, and deep plum look incredible against the beach and Spanish moss
Colors to approach carefully:
– Bright neon colors can be tricky in golden hour light
– Black works but can feel very warm during outdoor summer sessions
Styles That Work for Beach Sessions
For beach sessions specifically, think about movement. Flowy fabrics, maxi dresses, and lightweight materials photograph beautifully in the beach breeze and create those stunning editorial moments when everything catches the wind just right. Some of my favorite looks for beach sessions include:
– Flowy midi or maxi dresses in soft or bold tones
– Linen or cotton pants with an elevated top
– A classic sundress with accessories
– Anything with texture like eyelet, lace, or embroidery
Styles That Work for Lowcountry Backdrops
For sessions in the Spanish moss, the marsh, or the forest, you have a little more flexibility to go editorial and structured. These backdrops can handle a bolder, more intentional look. Some great options include:
– Structured blazers or jackets layered over simple tops
– Flowy romantic pieces in earthy or jewel tones
– Statement outfits that feel timeless rather than trendy
– Anything with interesting texture or detail that photographs with depth
What to Avoid
This is just as important as knowing what to wear! Here is what I ask all of my seniors to skip:
– Large logos or graphics. They pull the focus away from your face and date your photos faster than almost anything else.
– Busy patterns. Small repetitive patterns like stripes and checks can create a distracting visual effect on camera.
– Overly trendy pieces. What is really in right now might feel dated in two or three years. Go for timeless over trendy whenever possible!
– Wrinkled clothes. Steam or iron everything the night before. Wrinkles show up more on camera than you expect!
– Super short skirts & dresses. Keep in mind that you may be seated during your session!
The ASP Senior Style Guide
When you book an ASP Senior session, you receive my full Senior Style Guide which goes into even more detail on outfit planning, color palettes, and exactly how to prepare for your session. It is one of my favorite parts of the experience to share with new clients because it takes so much of the guesswork out of the whole process!
If you are a local HHI or Bluffton senior, or a family visiting the island ready to book your session, I would love to hear from you! Reach out through my contact page and I will send over all the details including your Style Guide as soon as you book.
