Posing Tips for Senior Photo Session


Graduating high school is a major milestone—one that deserves to be captured beautifully! The right poses can make all the difference in your senior photo session. As a New Hampshire senior photographer, I've learned a lot about what works and what doesn't—it’s all about confidence, comfort, and a little bit of practice. Here are some tips to help you prepare for your photo session!

1. Add Movement


Movement brings your photos to life and help you feel more at ease. Some ways you can add movement are by walking slowly, twirling (that's why I love flowy dresses and skirts), or brushing your hair off your face. These movements help your give your session a light, playful, and natural feel.

A person in a white cable knit sweater and jeans dances joyfully on a wooden pier at sunset with boats in the background.
Black and white portrait of a person in a flowing sundress smiling and twirling on rocky beach at sunset.
Woman in flowy beige midi dress twirls on garden path surrounded by colorful flowers and greenery.

2. Use Your Hands


Wondering what to do with your hands? That’s super common! I’ll often suggest poses where you:



  • Gently touch your hair or necklace
  • Slip your thumbs into your pockets
  • Lean on a railing
  • Hold a prop - like flowers
A young woman in a white ruffled top and denim jeans poses in a garden with soft bokeh lighting effects in the background.
A beachside portrait on a cloudy day shows someone in a white crop top and light blue jeans walking along the shore.
Someone with long red hair wearing a floral dress holds yellow flowers while standing in a wooded outdoor setting.

3. The Power of the Over-the-Shoulder Pose


The over-the-shoulder pose is one of my go-to poses during senior sessions because it is super flattering.  I’ll have you turn slightly away from the camera, then look back over your shoulder. It’s soft, elegant, and creates a beautiful profile.

Black and white portrait photograph of someone looking over their shoulder while wearing a ruffled white top outdoors.
A person wearing a blue floral maxi skirt and white top stands in shallow ocean water at sunset.
Young woman in black crop top and ripped jeans poses outdoors at sunset with tall grass and golden light in background.

6. Angles Are Your Best Friend


Turning your body slightly to the side—instead of facing the camera straight-on—creates flattering angles. Tilt your head slightly, shift your weight onto one foot, and relax your shoulders (and make sure you're not slouching).

A person wearing a white top and light blue jeans stands on a wooden boardwalk surrounded by autumn foliage.
Natural outdoor portrait of a young woman in casual attire sitting in a garden with foliage and soft lighting.
A woman in a red polka dot dress poses in a field of bright yellow flowers and sunflowers on a summer day.

5. Adding Personal Touches


Most importantly, your senior session should reflect you. I’ll help tailor the poses and setting to match your vibe. Props and accessories that reflect your personality are always welcome! These personal touches make your session unique and give you something fun to interact with during the session.

Pink sweater and ripped jeans standing by love locks on bridge fence during golden hour.
Portrait of someone in a white ruffled top and light blue jeans standing on a garden path surrounded by greenery.
Someone poses in a white sweater and jeans on a wooden dock at sunset with boats and marina in the background.

6. Trust the Process


It’s totally normal to feel a little awkward at first, but don’t worry—that’s my job to help with! I’ll guide you every step of the way, from choosing locations around NH to finding poses that feel just right for you. All you need to do is show up, have fun, and enjoy the moment.

Young person in a blue and white patterned sundress stands outdoors in a garden with white fence and flowers.
Young woman in black crop top and ripped jeans poses on rocky beach at sunset.
A person in a white tank top and floral blue skirt sits casually on coastal rocks at sunset.

Final Thoughts


  1. Practice in a mirror: You'll get a feel for your angles and what expressions you love.
  2. Keep moving: Don’t freeze—slight shifts between poses keep the energy fresh.
  3. Be yourself: The best photos show your real smile and personality.


If you're a senior (or a parent of one!) looking to book a session here in New Hampshire, I’d love to chat. Let's create portraits that celebrate everything graduating high school represents—confidence, growth, and your unique story.