Future Pilot’s Senior Session at Monroe Executive Airport | Charlotte NC Senior Photographer

There are senior sessions where we spend a lot of time figuring out the right location. This was definitely not one of them. Zach is learning to fly at Monroe Executive Airport, and when his dad first contacted me, they already knew that’s where they wanted to shoot. Of course, my mind immediately went into hyper planning mode and I knew this session had a lot of amazing potential to capture a really personal story about Zach’s plans and dreams.

Even better, we were able to use the plane Zach has done most of his training in. He and his dad specifically asked me to photograph some of the details of the plane while we were there, and I’m really glad they did. The tail number, the instrument panel, the cockpit, the little things he probably doesn’t think twice about right now; all of it is part of this particular time in his life.

And then, of course, there’s the fact that Zach can actually fly the thing.

It’s easy to forget when you’re talking about senior pictures that this is a high school student sitting in the pilot’s seat. I loved being able to photograph him where he actually takes his lessons rather than simply putting him next to a plane and making it look like he does.

We had three hours at the airport, which sounds wonderfully leisurely until I mention that we managed to choose the absolute hottest day of the year. The heat coming off that tarmac was something else.

Thankfully, having the extra time meant we didn’t have to rush. We could wander, get inside the plane, move around the hangars and wait for the light to change instead of trying to cram everything into an hour.

I also didn’t want to make every photograph about flying. Zach is a senior first, and I wanted the final gallery to have plenty of images that felt like senior portraits — just with a much better backdrop than I usually get to work with.

By the end of the session, the sun was finally low enough to give us some relief and the airport looked completely different than it had when we started. We finished out on the tarmac with the planes and that gorgeous late-day summer light.

This is one of those sessions I think will get more interesting with time. Right now, it’s simply where Zach goes to flight school and the plane he’s learning on.

Twenty years from now, I have a feeling he’ll be pretty happy his dad made sure we photographed it.

And for the record, if Zach ends up flying something enormous someday, I fully expect to be able to say I photographed him back when he was just getting started.

What to Wear for Senior Pictures (Guys Edition — 2027 Guide)

Let's be real — figuring out what to wear for senior pictures is not exactly most guys' idea of a great time. But here's the thing: the right outfits make a massive difference in how your photos look and, more importantly, how confident you feel during your session. And feeling comfortable? That's what actually makes the photos great.

This guide breaks it down simply — no overwhelming fashion rules, just practical advice that works for senior guys in the Charlotte, Harrisburg, Concord, and Cabarrus County area.

Start Here: How Many Outfits Do You Need?

Most senior sessions include 2–3 outfit changes, and that's the sweet spot. Three outfits give you real variety — a casual look, a slightly dressed-up look, and something that's uniquely you (a jersey, a cap and gown, a suit — whatever fits your story).

Think of it this way:

• Outfit 1: Your "everyday elevated" — what you'd wear on a good casual day, just polished

• Outfit 2: A step up — button-down, blazer, nice jeans, or whatever feels like a special occasion

• Outfit 3: Something personal — sport uniform, cap & gown, band gear, or a meaningful look

The #1 Rule: Fit Always Wins

This is the single most important thing in this entire guide. A simple, well-fitting outfit will photograph 10x better than an expensive outfit that doesn't fit right. Clothes that are too baggy look sloppy on camera. Too tight, and they restrict your movement and make you self-conscious.

You do not need to buy anything new for your session. Most guys already have everything they need — they just need to make sure it actually fits well before the session.

Colors That Work Well on Camera

Here's what tends to photograph beautifully:

• Neutrals: White, cream, gray, tan, navy, black — clean and timeless

• Earth tones: Olive, rust, camel, forest green — these look amazing outdoors, especially in the Charlotte area

• Soft blues and burgundy: Classic, flattering, and versatile

What to avoid: Neon colors (they create color cast on your skin), large busy logos (they distract from your face), and all-black head-to-toe if your session includes dark backgrounds.

Outfit Ideas by Style

The Classic Look

A well-fitted chino or dark denim, a button-down (tucked or untucked), and clean leather shoes or white sneakers. Simple, sharp, and works at any location — from downtown Concord to an open field.

The Casual-Cool Look

Your favorite jeans that actually fit (not the ones that have been sitting in your closet since freshman year), a plain or lightly textured crewneck or henley, and clean sneakers. This is the look most guys feel most like themselves in — and that authenticity comes through in every single photo.

The Dressed-Up Look

You don't have to go full suit-and-tie unless that's your thing, but a blazer over a simple shirt elevates any outfit instantly. Throw it over a white tee or a solid button-down. You'll be surprised how good it looks — and how easy it is.

The Sport or Activity Look

Playing sports, into hunting, love your truck or your guitar? Bring it. Senior sessions should reflect who you actually are — not just a polished version. Your team jersey, your camo jacket, your instrument. These are often the most memorable shots from the entire session.

Don't Forget These Details

• Shoes matter more than you think. They show up in photos constantly. Make sure they're clean and match your outfit's vibe.

• Iron or steam your clothes. Wrinkles are very visible on camera. It takes five minutes and makes a real difference.

• Haircut timing. If you're getting a fresh cut before your session, do it 5–7 days before — not the day of. You want it to look natural, not brand new.

• Skip the heavy cologne. You'll be moving around a lot, and it's a long session. Keep it light.

A Note on Props & Personal Touches

Some of the best senior sessions I've done have included a beat-up guitar, a truck, a dog, sports equipment, or a meaningful piece of gear. If there's something that's been a big part of your high school story, bring it. Props and personal touches are what turn a "nice photo" into something you'll actually want to hang on the wall.

Wrapping Up: Keep It Simple, Keep It You

The goal of your senior session isn't to look like someone else. It's to capture who you are right now — before you head off to college, trade school, the military, or wherever life is taking you next. Clean, well-fitting clothes in colors that make you feel good are all you need.

If you're in the Charlotte, Harrisburg, Concord, or Cabarrus County area and you're ready to start planning your senior session, I'd love to connect. I guide every client through outfit planning as part of the booking process — so you'll never have to figure it out alone.

→ Ready to book? Check out the info on the Senior Page or head to the contact page and let's make it happen.