A realistic week-of checklist for girls and boys so you show up calm and ready


The week of your senior session can feel exciting and stressful at the same time. Most seniors are thinking about outfits and how they will look. Parents are thinking about timing, logistics, and whether everything will go smoothly. Sound familiar?


Here’s the truth. Week-of prep is not about being perfect. It’s about removing the little problems that create big stress.


A person in a white sparkly dress poses outdoors with blonde curly hair and a gold bracelet against a green background.
A series of connected photos showing a person with blonde hair in a white dress smiling and posing outdoors.
A person in a white lace wedding dress poses outdoors in a natural garden setting with soft lighting and greenery.

7 Days Before: Lock in Outfits and the Plan


Pick outfits early and try them on now, not the night before. Move around in each one. Sit down. Walk. Raise your arms.


Ask yourself:

  • Can I breathe and move in this?
  • Do I feel like myself in this?
  • Would I wear this again without overthinking it?


If an outfit feels stiff, it usually photographs stiff.


Confirm the basics early: meeting time, location, outfits, and any props. If you are unsure about something, ask. I’d rather answer questions now than troubleshoot panic later.

3 to 5 Days Before: Grooming and Details


This is the part that sneaks up on people.


For girls

  • Nails show up more than you think. If you do nails, go clean or neutral.
  • If you wear makeup, keep it you. Do not test a brand-new look on shoot day.
  • If you are doing your hair, practice the style once. You want it to feel familiar.


For boys

  • If you are getting a haircut, do it 3 to 5 days before so it settles naturally.
  • If you shave, do it the night before or the morning of.
  • Clean up nails. Hands show up a lot in photos.


For everyone

  • Steam or hang outfits to remove wrinkles.
  • Check undergarments. Bright colors under light clothing will show.
  • Clean shoes. Scuffs and dirt are tough to edit out.


A white sundress-clad figure poses near a garden pond with lily pads and classical statue in an elegant outdoor setting.

1 to 2 Days Before: Energy Matters


This part is underrated.


Hydrate. Eat real food. Get sleep. A tired face and low energy always show in photos.



Ask yourself:

  • Am I taking care of myself this week?
  • Am I giving myself time to show up feeling good?


The Day Of: Pack Smart


Bring a small bag with:

  • Outfits on hangers
  • Shoes for each outfit
  • Water and a snack
  • Lip balm
  • Brush, pins, and a small mirror
  • Optional hair wax stick for flyaways
  • Deodorant
  • Lint roller



Before we start, empty your pockets. Phones, keys, and wallets create awkward bulges that show up fast.


A person in a white eyelet lace dress poses outdoors against a natural green foliage background.

Weather Prep Without Stress


Check the forecast the night before. Pack a coat or blanket to stay warm between shots if needed. If weather shifts, we adjust the plan and keep it moving.


Final Thought


The goal is simple. Show up prepared enough that you can relax.


When you feel ready, the session feels easier. And when the session feels easier, the photos follow.


— Cass