Your Guide to Summer Senior Sessions: Outfits, Poses & Locations
By Sarah Hilts Photography
Looking for summer senior session inspiration? You’re in the right place! Summer is the perfect time to schedule your senior session — with golden sunlight, colorful blooms, and dreamy beach backdrops, there are so many ways to make your photos stand out. Whether you’re a rising senior planning your shoot or just starting to gather ideas, this post is packed with inspiration from real SHP seniors to help you create a session that reflects you. 🌞📸
1. What to Wear: Bright, Colorful & YOU
When it comes to summer session outfits, think bright and happy tones — soft pinks, bold blues, fresh whites, sunny yellows — that pop in natural light. While we love a good color moment, we recommend avoiding neon, which can reflect harshly on the skin and overpower your natural glow.
Some client favorites include:
Flowy sundresses with movement in bright colors ( not neon )
Denim paired with a statement top.
Coordinated sets or rompers
Accessories like hats, layered jewelry, or a bold lip for an extra flair
2. Location Ideas That Make Your Photos Shine
Eastern North Carolina and the Outer Banks offer some of the best backdrops for your senior session. Here are a few summer favorites our clients love:
Beach dunes + ocean waves — dreamy, classic, and always stunning
Flower fields — especially sunflowers or wildflowers in bloom
Spanish Moss Dreams —a soft, golden Southern setting with timeless charm and dreamy light.
I’ll help match the location to your style and vision so that it complements your look and vibe.
3. Pose + Photo Inspo
Worried about how to pose? Don’t be — I’ll guide you through every pose, step by step! During your SHP session, I’ll show you exactly what to do so you feel confident, natural, and never awkward in front of the camera. From classic portraits to playful laughs, twirls, hair flips, and walking shots — I’ll help bring out your best angles and real personality every time.
4. Makeup + Beauty Vibes
Summer makeup is all about that fresh, radiant glow — think dewy skin, soft eyes, and a fun pop of color to complement your outfit. The goal is to enhance your natural beauty while keeping your look light and camera-ready. Choose long-lasting products that hold up in the heat and add a touch of shimmer or bronzer for that perfect sun-kissed finish.
5. Every SHP Senior Session is Custom to YOU
One thing that sets Sarah Hilts Photography apart is our commitment to capturing what makes each senior unique. Your style, personality, and vibe guide your entire session, from outfits to locations. No two sessions are ever the same because no two seniors are the same.
Ready to Plan Your Dream Senior Session?
If you’re ready for a senior portrait experience that celebrates the real you, let’s get you all the info you need!
📩 Email sarahhiltsphotography@gmail.com and we’ll send over our SHP Senior Client Magazine — packed with everything from pricing and session timelines to FAQs and helpful tips.
Let’s make magic this summer! 🌊☀️
Here is a link to some of my favorite Best Senior Session Locations in the Outer Banks, NC