Senior Props That Tell Your Story: Personalize Your Session

Your senior portraits should feel like you.

One of the best ways to add personality and storytelling to your session is by bringing props that matter to you. Don’t worry—these don’t have to be cheesy or over-the-top. They can be subtle, meaningful, and fun!

Here are a few categories to inspire you:

1. Sports Gear

You’ve put in the hours. The early mornings, late nights, the sweat, the wins, and the lessons learned along the way—all of that deserves to be celebrated in your senior photos.

Bringing your sports gear is an awesome way to capture the heart of what’s shaped your high school journey. Whether you’re rocking your jersey on the field, lacing up your cleats, or repping that hard-earned letter jacket, these details help tell your story.

And trust me—it’s better to bring the gear and not use it than to wish you had! Even small touches can make a big impact.

✅ Ideas to Bring Along:

• Your team jersey or full uniform (don’t forget matching socks if it’s part of the look!)
• Letter jacket or letter patches
• Helmet, bat, ball, glove, puck, stick, or cleats — whatever represents your sport best!
• Medals, awards, or championship rings for a proud close-up shot
• Track spikes, dance shoes, wrestling shoes, or any footwear tied to your sport
• Gear bags, sports duffel, or equipment cases (great as background details or props)
• Mascot gear or team pennants for an extra personal touch
• Varsity pins or achievement patches to feature in detail photos

💡 Bonus Tip:

If your sport has multiple uniform options (home/away jerseys, different gear), feel free to bring both! I’ll help style the session so your images feel polished, personal, and unique to you.

2. Artistic or Musical Items

Your creativity deserves the spotlight, too! Whether music, art, or dance has played a role in shaping who you are, including these passions in your session makes your photos even more personal.

From strumming your guitar to flipping through your sketchbook, these details tell the story of what lights you up outside of the classroom.

✅ Ideas to Bring Along:

• Instruments: Guitar, violin, trumpet, drums—whatever you play!
• Sheet music, headphones, or favorite vinyl records
• Sketchbooks, canvases, or digital tablets with your artwork
• Ballet shoes, dance costumes, or pointe shoes
• Paintbrushes, palettes, or creative tools of your trade
• Poetry journals, written work, or published pieces
• Anything else that shows off your artistic flair or creative passion

3. Academic Achievements

Books, awards, honors—you’ve worked hard to get here! Your achievements deserve their moment to shine. Whether you’re headed to college, starting a trade, or jumping right into your dream career, these little details add meaning and pride to your session.

✅ Ideas to Bring Along:

• Favorite books or textbooks that represent your interests
• Graduation cords, medals, or honor society pins
• Lab coat, stethoscope, goggles, or scientific tools
• College gear: t-shirts, sweatshirts, acceptance letters, pennants, or logos
• Career-related props: flight logs, culinary tools, design sketches—whatever speaks to your next step!

4. Hobbies

Your hobbies say so much about who you are. Whether it’s hiking, reading, gaming, or coffee shop hopping, bringing those little pieces of your world makes your session feel authentic and true to YOU.

✅ Ideas to Bring Along:

• Hiking boots, fishing gear, or camping essentials
• Favorite books or a stack of your top reads
• Gaming controllers, dice sets, or hobby collections
• Coffee mug from your go-to shop or your favorite tumbler
• Sketches, journaling supplies, or crafting tools
• Anything else that makes your friends say, “That’s so you!”

5. Pets

Fur babies totally count as family—and they’re always welcome to join in the fun! Whether it’s your loyal dog, fluffy cat, or even your horse, including pets makes your session feel extra special.

✅ Helpful Tips

• Bring a friend or family member to help wrangle your pet between shots.
• Pack treats, leashes, and toys to keep them happy and engaged.
• Groom ahead of time if needed—yep, even pets love a little spa day!

6. Vehicles

Your first car. Your dream truck. The bike you worked all summer to buy. Vehicles bring an awesome edge and personality to your senior photos. They’re not just transportation—they’re part of your story.

✅ Helpful Tips

• Car, truck, motorcycle, dirt bike, or bicycle
• License plate, steering wheel close-ups, or key fob shots
• Custom decals or bumper stickers that show your style
• Sunset or golden hour shots with your vehicle for that dramatic, cinematic feel

7. Uniforms or Costumes

From center stage to the show ring, the uniforms you wear represent the dedication and passion you’ve put into your activities. Whether it’s theater, FFA, 4H, ROTC, or marching band, these outfits tell an important part of your story.

✅ Ideas to Bring Along:

• Theater costumes or props from your favorite roles
• FFA jacket, 4H gear, or show ribbons
• ROTC uniform or military prep attire
• Marching band uniform, hat, or instrument
• Any costume or outfit that showcases your leadership or performance spirit

8. Tools of Your Trade

Planning to jump into cosmetology, welding, construction, culinary arts, or another hands-on field? Bring along the tools of your trade! These pieces symbolize your skills and your future.

✅ Ideas to Bring Along:

• Cosmetology shears, brushes, makeup kits, or styling tools
• Welding mask, gloves, or gear
• Tool belt, hammer, wrench, or other construction tools
• Chef’s coat, knives, whisks, or baking tools
• Photography camera, design software, or other creative equipment
• Anything that represents your career path or passion project

9. Graduation Gear

You’ve made it! Caps, gowns, tassels, and stoles are a timeless way to mark your achievement. These shots are perfect for announcements, party invites, or just soaking up the moment that says, “I did it!”



✅ Ideas to Bring Along:

• Cap and gown (don’t forget the tassel!)
• Stoles, honor cords, and pins
• Graduation year signs, numbers, or balloons
• Confetti or champagne (for those 18+ celebrations!)
• Decorated cap if you’re planning to personalize it

10. Legacy or Memory Items

Sometimes the most important things we bring aren’t flashy—they’re the pieces that carry the most meaning. Whether it’s a keepsake from a loved one, a piece of jewelry, or a well-loved book, these items add soul to your session.

✅ Ideas to Bring Along:

• A loved one’s jewelry, watch, or accessory
• Special blanket, quilt, or handmade item
• Favorite book or Bible
• Dog tags, military patches, or family heirlooms
• Photo of a loved one you want to honor
• Anything that holds special significance to you and your story

Tips for Props:

• Keep it meaningful, not just trendy.
• Make sure it fits your location and outfit.
• Better to have it and say ‘nah’ than to leave it at home and say ‘oh shoot!

Final Thought:

These portraits are your legacy—don’t be afraid to show who you are. I’ll help guide you through it all so your session is relaxed, fun, and completely you.

Ready to plan your dream session?

Let’s make something amazing together!

—Shamara | My Eye Photography

Authentic Moments. Artistic Vision. Astonishing Creations.