What to Wear for Your Photoshoot
Style Tips for Seniors, Dancers, and Athletes
In my short time behind the lens, I’ve had the chance to photograph all kinds of people, dancers, basketball players, baseball athletes, cheerleaders, and seniors getting ready to take on the next chapter. Each one of them came with energy, personality, and their own style. But you know what else they brought?
Phones in back pockets. Neon sports bras under white tops. Hair ties on wrists. And sometimes, socks that stole the whole show for the wrong reason.
As a photographer, I love capturing the moment. But part of my job also happens after the shoot, in the editing room. And the truth is, I end up spending a lot of time removing things that don’t belong in the final image. Most of the time, these are things people didn’t even realize would stand out. That’s why I always ask clients to be just a little more mindful of what they wear and bring to a shoot.
Because trust me, what you wear matters.
So what should you wear to your photoshoot?
Let’s break it down with a few style tips I’ve learned while working with seniors, dancers, and athletes.
For Seniors: Keep It Clean, Confident, and You
This is your moment. Your personality should be front and center, not distracted by a tangled hoodie or a logo that pulls the eye away from your smile.
- Bring options: One casual look, one dressier, and one that feels most like you.
- Avoid loud patterns or logos: These can steal attention in photos or date your look.
- Check your pockets: Wallets, keys, or phones leave bulges that will show. Empty them before we shoot.
- Undergarments matter: If you’re wearing white, make sure what’s underneath is neutral.
- Hair ties on your wrist? Let’s leave those off.
Ask yourself, “Will I still love how I look in this 10 years from now?” Choose what reflects your confidence, not just a trend.
For Dancers: Show Movement, Not Distraction
Dancer shoots are some of my favorites. The grace, the strength, the emotion, it’s incredible. But clothes that restrict or distract can hold back the magic.
- Go with flowy or form-fitting: Outfits that move with you or showcase your form work best.
- Avoid loud prints: Solid colors or subtle textures keep the focus on your movement.
- Secure hair: Flyaways can be beautiful, but too much mess might take away from the pose.
- Mind the accessories: Earrings that dangle too much or bracelets that clash with movement can become distractions in motion.
Before your shoot, stand in front of a mirror and do a few moves. Ask yourself, “Do I feel free to move? Will this outfit help me shine?”
For Athletes: Represent with Style
Whether you're a basketball player, baseball player, cheerleader, or anything in between, your sport is part of your story. Let it show, but in the right way.
- Bring your uniform, but add a clean backup look: Sometimes a simple jeans-and-tee moment paired with your gear or ball makes a great image.
- Avoid dirty sneakers: Your feet will show, especially in action shots.
- Trim tape, adjust socks, and double-check the fit: Baggy or wrinkled gear can make even the best pose feel off.
- Team gear is great—just make sure it's clean, matching, and feels true to you.
Ask yourself, “Do I look like I’m ready to play, or ready to be remembered?”
Final Thoughts: Your Style Tells a Story
Clothing can empower or distract. It can highlight confidence or pull attention away. And in every session, I try to help people look and feel like the best version of themselves. When you dress with intention, it shows.
So before you walk in front of my camera, take a moment. Lay your outfit out. Move in it. Check it in natural light. Ask someone you trust. And most importantly, ask yourself, “Is this how I want to remember this moment?”
Because when you look good, feel good, and move confidently, your photos will show it.
Let’s create something you’ll want to frame forever.
— Cass
