How to Show Up as You in Your Senior Year
A heart-centered reminder for seniors (and their parents too)
From a Chicago Area High School Senior Photographer
Senior year.
The final lap.
The year you’ve looked forward to—and maybe even secretly dreaded—for what feels like forever.
It's a year filled with big moments: college applications, final performances, team championships, senior photos, prom dresses, and graduation caps. But in the middle of all that buzz, pressure, and “lasts,” there’s something else quietly asking for your attention:
You.
Your real self.
Not the version shaped by social media.
Not the one trying to keep up with everyone else's highlight reel.
Not even the one you think people want you to be.
Just you.
Embrace Your Individuality
Here’s the truth: the most beautiful thing you can be this year is unapologetically yourself. Whether you're into vintage fashion, science competitions, dance, coding, painting, or running cross country at sunrise—you have something unique that deserves to be seen and celebrated.
You don’t need to look or act like anyone else to be worthy of confidence or connection.
Your quirks, your passions, your awkward laughter, and your quiet strength are your magic. Lean into them.
Avoid the Comparison Trap
This is the year when it’s easy to compare everything—grades, colleges, friend groups, photoshoots, and prom dates. But here’s a gentle reminder: comparison is the thief of joy. It distracts you from everything that’s working in your life and everything that makes you you.
You’re not behind.
You’re not doing it wrong.
You’re just on your path.
Celebrate your friends, yes—but don’t forget to celebrate yourself too.
Build Real Confidence
Confidence doesn’t come from being perfect—it comes from knowing yourself.
It’s built in small moments:
Choosing the outfit that feels most like you.
Speaking up even when your voice shakes.
Saying “no” to things that don’t feel aligned.
Showing up to your senior photos and letting your personality shine—freckles, frizzy hair, genuine smile and all.
At our studio, we believe senior portraits are about more than just pretty pictures. They’re about capturing who you are right now—in all your wild, radiant, real glory.
So bring the outfits that feel like home. Bring your messy, joyful, emotional, hopeful self. Because this year is not about becoming someone new.
It’s about becoming more of who you already are.
Final Thoughts
If you’re a parent reading this: encourage your senior to lead with their heart this year. Remind them that their worth isn't measured in grades or college acceptances—but in kindness, courage, and showing up fully as themselves.
And if you’re a senior: slow down, breathe, and remember—
You don’t need to fit in to belong.
You just need to be you.
This is your year. And it’s going to be beautiful. 💛
With love,
Alicia Staley Johnson
Alicia’s Photography
Naperville, Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, Geneva, St. Charles, Plainfield, Downers Grove, Senior Photographer