E13:  Styling Secrets for Senior Photography with Shannon Lange

Let’s be real: what your senior wears to their photoshoot matters. Like, a lot.

And if anyone knows the art of styling seniors so they feel like absolute rock stars, it’s Shannon Lange, a Fort Worth-based senior photographer with a heart of gold, a pair of oversized sunnies, and a knack for making her girls feel unstoppable in front of the lens.

Shannon’s more than just a photographer—she’s a wife, a mom of two humans (plus two Bernese pups), a daughter caring for her 80-year-old dad, and the kind of “extroverted introvert” who’ll talk your ear off in the best way possible. She’s also someone who deeply cares about making her seniors feel confident, beautiful, and completely themselves in front of the camera.

So, what should seniors wear to their session? And more importantly—why does it matter so much?Let’s dive into Shannon’s expert styling tips, straight from her recent episode on Raw Edit

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It All Starts with Confidence

When Shannon first started photography, she was just snapping photos of her kids. But she quickly realized she had a gift for working with seniors. Why? Because they listen. They respond. And with the right guidance, they shine.

Her biggest styling secret? Make sure your senior feels good in what they’re wearing.

Comfort = confidence = killer photos.

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The Power of Outfit Variety

One outfit? Cute.

Four outfits? A whole vibe.

Shannon encourages every senior to bring a mix of outfits to their session—long dresses, shorts, jeans, layers, textures—you name it. Variety creates visual interest in the final gallery and gives your senior more ways to express their style and personality.Pro tip: Solid colors usually photograph better than busy prints, and they help keep the focus on the senior’s face and eyes.

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Match the Outfit to the Location

A flowy white dress in a field at golden hour? Yes, please.

A leather jacket downtown at night? Obsessed.Shannon emphasizes the importance of styling for the location. That’s where her consultation calls come in. These chats help guide outfit choices based on where the shoot is happening, the type of light, and the overall vibe.

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Know Your Colors & Body Type

Color theory isn’t just for art class—it’s a game-changer in photography. Shannon recommends seniors wear colors that complement their personal palette. (Hint: Knowing your color season is a fun way to figure this out!)

She’s also a big believer in understanding your body type and dressing to flatter it. Sometimes that means bringing in a stylist—which Shannon highly suggests for anyone feeling overwhelmed.

“I can’t tell a girl what to wear,” she says. “But I can help her feel incredible in what she chooses.”

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Move, Laugh, Be Yourself

Shannon’s goal? To create a shoot where your senior can move, laugh, and feel free to be herself.

That’s why she recommends minimal jewelry (so it doesn’t distract), shoes you can walk in, and clothes you can actually pose in.

“We’re not just standing around looking cute,” she says with a laugh. “You’ve got to be able to move!”

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Words of Wisdom from Shannon

Here are just a few of the gems Shannon dropped during the episode:

• “Don’t wear green—you’re gonna blend in.”
• “9 out of 10 seniors wear a white dress. It’s a trend for a reason!”
• “Wear what works on your body.”
• “It’s a me problem, not a you problem.” (Said when adjusting posing or lighting!)
• “You are going to feel like a rock star!”

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Community Over Competition

One thing Shannon is passionate about? Building a community with other photographers. She believes there’s zero competition in this industry—just room to lift each other up.

“Find your people in photography,” she says. “It changes everything.”

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So, What’s the Takeaway?

Your senior’s outfit isn’t just what they wear—it’s how they show up. Shannon’s thoughtful, experience-driven approach to styling helps her seniors feel like the best version of themselves. And that’s what truly makes a session unforgettable.

Want to connect with Shannon?

Website: www.shannonlangephotography.com

Instagram: @shannonlangephotography

Based in Fort Worth, TX

Email: shannon@shannonlangephotography.com