How to Include College Gear in Senior Portraits For Charlotte Grads

You worked hard for that acceptance letter—your photos should celebrate it. 🎓 Whether you’re repping a college you’ve already committed to or capturing that decision-season excitement, including college gear in senior portraits is a fun, meaningful way to tell your story in both senior and graduation sessions.

The key? Thoughtful styling that feels you—not like a campus bookstore exploded in your session.

As a Charlotte Senior Photographer, here are my favorite ways to incorporate college gear in senior photos while keeping everything polished, timeless, and totally Instagram-worthy.

1. T-Shirts, Jerseys & Sweatshirts: Wearing College Gear In Senior Portraits

College apparel is the most popular (and easiest) way to show school pride—but styling makes all the difference.

Best options:

• College t-shirts or fitted tees
• Jerseys (great for athletes!)
• Crewnecks or lightweight sweatshirts

Pro styling tips:

• Pair casual college tops with elevated basics: jeans, trousers, skirts, or layered jackets
• Stick to one logo piece per outfit
• Choose neutral bottoms so school colors pop

✨ This works especially well as a secondary outfit during your senior or grad session.

2.  Flags, Pennants & Banners in Senior Portraits

Want something bold but flexible? College flags and pennants are perfect for college gear in senior portraits.

How to use them:

• Draped casually over your shoulder
• Held behind you for a clean, graphic look
• Used briefly for a few celebratory frames (then set aside)

These are great because they:

• Photograph well from a distance
• Can be added or removed quickly
• Don’t overwhelm your outfit

💡 Tip: Steam or neatly fold flags beforehand—wrinkles show up fast on camera.

3. Accessories That Make a Statement in Senior Photos

Small details can tell a big story and elevate college gear in senior portraits.

Easy college-themed accessories:

• Hats or baseball caps
• Letterman-style jackets
• Jewelry in school colors
• Shoes with subtle color ties

Accessories are ideal if you want a hint of college pride without a full logo look.

4. Under the Cap & Gown (Yes—Really!)

One of my favorite ideas for graduation sessions: wearing your college shirt under your cap and gown.

We’ll capture:

• Clean, classic cap-and-gown portraits
• A reveal shot opening the gown to show your college tee
• Fun, celebratory images tossing the cap or holding your diploma

🎓 It’s the perfect blend of tradition + personality.

5. A Separate College Outfit During Your Grad Session

If you want to keep your senior photos timeless and celebrate your next chapter, this is the best of both worlds.

Plan for:

• One polished outfit (dressy, neutral, classic)
• One college-focused outfit with gear

This gives you:

• Variety in your gallery
• Options for announcements, prints, and social media
• A clear story of where you’ve been—and where you’re headed

What to Avoid in College Gear For Senior Portraits

A few gentle don’ts:

• Multiple logos at once
• Oversized, ill-fitting shirts (unless styled intentionally)
• Wearing gear that clashes with your location
• Letting the outfit overpower you

If you’re unsure, I’ll help you decide what works best for your session and location.

How to Use Your College Gear in Senior Portraits

Including college gear in senior portraits doesn’t just add meaning—it gives you images that are incredibly versatile long after your session is over.

Here are some of the most popular ways families use these photos:

• 🎓 Graduation albums – showing the transition from high school to college
• 📣 School recognition & announcement pages – senior spotlights and end-of-year features
• ✉️ Graduation announcements & thank-you cards – printed or digital keepsakes
• 🎉 Graduation party décor – welcome signs, photo boards, and table displays
• 🖼️ Wall art & keepsakes – meaningful reminders for bedrooms or family spaces
• 📱 Social media – polished posts, reels, and story highlights

Final Thoughts: Make It Personal

Your college gear represents more than a school—it represents growth, goals, and a huge milestone. Whether you go bold with a jersey or subtle with accessories, the best photos are the ones that feel authentic to you.

If you’re planning a Charlotte senior or graduation session, I’m always happy to help you style college gear in senior portraits in a way that feels elevated, intentional, and true to your personality.

✨ Ready to plan your session? Let’s make it meaningful—and celebrate what’s next. Contact me!