What Are the Best Colors to Wear at Your Senior Portrait Session? | Senior Portraits Sacramento
What Are the Best Colors to Wear at Your Senior Portrait Session? | Senior Portraits Sacramento
One of the biggest questions I get before picture day is:
“What colors should I wear for my senior portraits?”
Honestly? It’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
Your outfit colors don’t just show off your style—they affect how your skin tone glows, how you stand out from the background, and how timeless your photos feel years from now.
As a photographer who’s shot hundreds of senior portraits in Sacramento, here’s my no-fail guide to choosing the best colors for your session—plus some pro tips on what to avoid.
✅ 1️⃣ Choose Colors That Flatter Your Skin Tone
Your skin’s undertones matter so much in photos.
Warm undertones?
✅ Earthy colors: rust, olive, mustard, warm beige
✅ Cream instead of stark white
Cool undertones?
✅ Jewel tones: emerald, sapphire, amethyst
✅ Cool greys, crisp white
Neutral undertones?
✅ Lucky you! Almost anything goes—but soft pastels and rich primary colors look especially amazing.
I always help my clients figure this out in advance—because the goal of senior portraits Sacramento style is to make you pop on camera.
✅ 2️⃣ Think About Your Location’s Colors
Where we shoot will impact what looks best.
- Green parks? Choose colors that contrast (reds, whites, deep blues)
- Urban/downtown? Bold pops (hot pink, electric blue) or sleek neutrals
- Golden fields? Earth tones, whites, dusty blues
Your outfit should stand out from the backdrop—not blend in too much.
When you book your senior portraits Sacramento session with me, I’ll help plan your outfits around your chosen location so your look is totally cohesive.
✅ 3️⃣ Go for Timeless, Not Trendy
Remember: you’ll be looking at these photos for decades.
✅ Solids photograph better than busy patterns
✅ Soft florals or subtle stripes are okay in moderation
✅ Neutrals and muted tones feel classic
✅ Trendy neon or logos? Usually a no-go
If you love a super bold color, balance it with simple cuts and minimal accessories.
As someone who’s specialized in senior portraits Sacramento for years, trust me—simple, timeless colors age best on your walls.
✅ 4️⃣ Plan for Multiple Outfits
You don’t have to pick just one perfect color!
For a typical senior session, I recommend 2–3 complete looks:
- Light/neutral outfit for soft, dreamy shots
- Bold, saturated color for punchy, dramatic portraits
- Personal outfit that showcases you (school colors, sports jersey, band tee)
This way, you get tons of variety in your senior portraits Sacramento gallery without feeling locked into one vibe.
✅ 5️⃣ Don’t Forget the Details
Color isn’t just about the main outfit—accessories and layers matter too!
✅ Coordinating jackets, cardigans, or scarves
✅ Hats that match your palette
✅ Shoes that don’t clash (neutrals usually work best)
✅ Simple, complementary jewelry
Pro tip: Lay it all out together the night before. Snap a photo on your phone to make sure nothing clashes!
❤️ Ready to Plan Your Dream Senior Session?
Your senior photos should reflect your personality, your style, and this once-in-a-lifetime milestone.
I’m here to make it easy, fun, and 100% you.
If you’re ready to book your senior portraits Sacramento session with someone who’ll help you every step of the way—from outfit planning to final gallery delivery—
📸 Contact me today and let’s make photo magic together!
❤️ Resources You’ll Love:
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Reach out today to secure your date with your go-to Sacramento Senior Photographer.
Alisha Cole is a photographer based in the Greater Sacramento Area, serving Northern California for all your photography needs. She specializes in family, graduates, and maternity photography. Contact Alisha today!
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