Clayton Valley Charter High School Senior Photos: Tips for an Amazing Session

Denise Wilson
Aug 20
3 min read

Your Concord & Clayton Senior Photographer’s Guide

Senior year is a milestone filled with energy, anticipation, and unforgettable moments—from football games under the lights to planning what’s next after graduation. As a Clayton Valley Charter High School senior photographer, I love helping students and families document this exciting chapter with photos that feel authentic, timeless, and full of personality.

If you’re preparing for your senior photos, here are my best tips to make your session fun, stress-free, and completely you.

high school senior in purple dress on a swing under a tree, gazing thoughtfully. Golden field with mountains in the background, bright blue sky.

1. Plan Ahead for a Smooth Day

The night before, lay out outfits, steam or iron anything that needs it, and pack up shoes, accessories, and props. A little prep means you’ll arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy the experience.

Clayton Valley Charter High School senior woman in a black dress poses with her arm raised over her head. Background features blurred mountains, conveying a serene mood. Black and white.

2. Mix It Up With Outfits

Choosing 2–3 different looks gives your gallery variety. Think about including:

A casual look that feels like your everyday style
A dressy option for polished, classic portraits
Something that represents your future (college gear, sports uniform, or even a favorite hoodie)

I provide styling help, an online tool, and access to my client closet so you never feel stuck on what to wear.

Young woman in white dress stands in a sunlit field, touching her hair. A distant town and hills are visible under a clear sky.

3. Show Your Story

Props aren’t just accessories—they tell your story. Whether it’s a guitar, your softball bat, a stack of favorite books, or your letterman jacket, these details help capture the things that shaped your high school years.

A woman in a graduation gown and cap stands in a sunny field, looking poised against a blurred backdrop of hills. Black and white photo.

4. Don’t Stress About Posing

Many seniors start off saying, “I’m awkward in front of the camera.” Guess what? Lots of people feel that way. I'll guide you through it, and after a few minutes you’ll forget about the camera and just have fun. The best images often come from the natural, unscripted moments.

Clayton Valley Charter High School Senior Woman in a burgundy dress stands in a grassy field, looking back with long hair flowing. Mountains and a soft sky are in the background.

5. Bring Someone Who Hypes You Up

Having a friend, sibling, or parent along can make your session even better. They can help with outfits, keep you laughing, or just cheer you on from the sidelines. Those genuine smiles often come from the person standing right behind me making you laugh.

Smiling woman in a white dress stands in a sunlit field, with a mountain in the background. She raises one arm above her head, feeling joyful.

6. Think About the Season

The East Bay has beautiful backdrops year-round:

Spring: Wildflowers and green hills near Clayton Valley
Summer: A golden, sun-soaked vibe
Fall: Warm tones and cozy textures
Winter: Crisp skies and soft light

Together we’ll choose the season and location that feels right for you.

A high school senior woman in a burgundy dress sits on a swing on a grassy hill, with mountains in the background. The mood is reflective and serene.

7. Add a Meaningful Detail

Want to make your photos even more special? Include something with sentimental value—a necklace from a grandparent, a note from a friend, or a keepsake that reminds you of home. It’s the little details that make your session truly personal.

Woman in a black dress stands in a field overlooking a scenic valley of trees and houses, wind blowing her hair, captured in black and white.

8. Take Care of Yourself

Drink plenty of water, get good sleep, and keep your skincare simple in the days leading up to your shoot. Looking and feeling your best starts with feeling well-rested and confident.

Woman in a burgundy dress poses at sunset on a hill, with hand raised to her head. Cityscape below with a warm, serene glow.

9. Enjoy the Moment

This isn’t just a photoshoot—it’s a celebration of everything you’ve achieved so far. Plan something fun before or after your session, whether it’s coffee with friends, a family dinner, or just some quiet time to reflect on this season of life.

A Clayton Valley Charter High School senior woman in a burgundy dress sits on a swing in a field, with hills in the background. She looks content and relaxed, holding the rope.

10. Print Your Memories

Digital galleries are wonderful, but there’s nothing like holding your photos in your hands. Prints and photo books are perfect for graduation parties, gifts for family, and keepsakes you’ll treasure long after high school.

Woman in black dress stands on grassy hill, arm raised, looking contemplative. Background shows blurred landscape under bright sky.

Ready to Capture Your Clayton Valley Charter High School Senior Photos?

Senior year only happens once. Let’s create photos that reflect who you are right now—your personality, your style, your story.

When you book with Denise Wilson Photography, I’ll help you every step of the way—from choosing outfits to finding the perfect location for your session.

Click here to book your session or reach out with questions. I can’t wait to create something beautiful with you!