Maximizing Variety in Your Senior Portrait Session: One Location, Multiple Looks
- Jessica Butterworth
- 21 hours ago
- 2 min read
Your senior portraits should reflect your personality and style, and you may not need multiple locations to achieve a diverse gallery of images. With a little planning, one carefully chosen location can provide a wide range of backdrops and aesthetics. Here’s how to get the most variety out of your Michigan high school senior portrait session without changing locations.
1. Outfit Changes: A Simple Way to Transform Your Look
Bringing a variety of outfits is one of the easiest ways to create different styles within a single session. Consider including:
A casual everyday outfit
A dressy or formal look
An athletic outfit if you’re involved in sports
A cozy seasonal look (sweaters in fall, light layers in spring, etc.)Mixing up colors, textures, and styles will give your portraits a fresh feel without needing a new location.
2. Hair & Accessories: Small Changes, Big Impact
Switching up your hairstyle or adding accessories can completely change the vibe of your photos. Try:
Wearing your hair down for part of the session, then pulling it into a ponytail or braid for a different look
Bringing hats, scarves, or sunglasses to add variety
Using hair clips or headbands for a quick style shiftThese small details help create a well-rounded gallery of senior photos with minimal effort.
3. Explore Different Backgrounds Within the Same Location
When selecting a location for your senior session, choose one with a variety of settings. Many parks, urban areas, and even high schools have multiple backdrops, such as:
Open fields for a natural look
Brick walls or staircases for an urban feel
Water features like ponds or fountains
Tree-lined paths for depth and textureBy moving just a few steps, you can completely change the setting of your photos.
4. Strike a Pose: Change Up Your Angles & Expressions
Your photographer will guide you through different poses, but don’t be afraid to mix things up! Try:
Sitting, standing, or leaning against a wall
Using movement—walking, twirling, or even jumping
Experimenting with serious, candid, and laughing expressionsA variety of poses will make your senior portrait gallery more dynamic and engaging.
5. Incorporate Props That Represent You
Props add a personalized touch to your photos and highlight your interests. Consider bringing:
A musical instrument if you’re a musician
Sports gear or a letterman jacket
Books or art supplies if you love reading or creatingKeep it simple—props should enhance, not overpower, your portraits.
Capture Your Senior Year with a Unique & Varied Session
With the right approach, a single location can provide endless possibilities for your senior portraits. Thoughtful outfit choices, hair and accessory changes, varied backgrounds, and expressive posing will give you a diverse and meaningful gallery of images.
Looking for a Michigan senior photographer to capture your high school experience? Behind the Shutter LLC specializes in senior portraits that highlight your personality and style. Contact me today to book your session and create stunning, one-of-a-kind senior photos!
This blog is written by Jessica Butterworth, a senior and family photographer at Behind the Shutter LLC in Grand Blanc, Michigan.
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