Chalkboard with text PROM NIGHT and disco ball on wooden table against blurred light

(BONUS: Tips for cool and rainy weather days)

Prom night is a milestone your teen will remember for years — and as a parent, you’ll want to capture every bit of it. Whether you’re snapping photos in your backyard, a nearby park, or just before they hop in the limo, these quick tips will help you take frame-worthy prom pictures that actually do the night justice.

📸 1. Find Soft, Even Lighting (Avoid Harsh Sun!)

Prom photos often happen mid-afternoon, when the sun is still high. To avoid harsh shadows or squinting, look for open shade — like under a tree, next to a building, or on the shaded side of the house. This creates even, flattering light without the bright sun washing out details or making your teen uncomfortable. If you must shoot in full sun, position them with the sun behind them and use your phone’s or camera’s exposure adjustment to brighten their face.

👯‍♂️ 2. Mix Up the Poses

Start with a few classic posed shots, but don’t forget the candid moments — laughing, adjusting a boutonnière, a twirl in the dress. Encourage them to interact with their date or friends instead of just stiff smiles. Group hugs, walking shots, or looking at each other go a long way!

📷 3. Capture the Details

Get close-ups of the dress texture, flowers, shoes, jewelry, and even their hair or makeup. Those tiny details may not feel important now, but they’ll bring back big memories later.

Young woman pins lapel corsage onto prom date

🌳 4. Pay Attention to the Background

Pick a clean, simple, uncluttered background — think trees, greenery, a neutral fence, or even a brick wall. Watch out for things like trash cans, cars, or lawn tools in the shot (yep, they sneak in!). A wide aperture (or Portrait mode on your phone) can help gently blur the background and keep the focus on your teen.

📷 5. Don’t Forget to Get in One Yourself!

You’ve been there for every milestone — and this one’s big. Whether your teen is rocking a tux or a gown, they’ll want to remember this day with you in it. Ask someone to snap a quick shot of the two of you together. You might get a little eye-roll, but trust me — they’ll treasure that photo one day just as much as you will.

👯‍♂️ Gift Ideas!

If you are looking for some fun gifts for your teen or for other family members, here are a few ideas. I always recommend Mpix to my clients, they are great quality and have fast shipping!

Acrylic Blocks or magnetic Birch Photo Blocks
Put together a Photo Book of the day, and make one for each friend
A Framed Print never goes out of style!
Metal Prints are a more modern, edgy take on a classic. They can go on the wall or a tabletop.
A Photo Box with prints and a thumb drive of the photos is something they can take to school (and you can add other photos as well!)

BONUS: 5 Cool & Rainy Prom Photo Tips

1. Embrace the Mood
Overcast skies create soft, flattering light. Lean into the romantic, moody vibe with close-ups, movement (like twirls), and natural expressions.

2. Bring a Clear or Stylish Umbrella
A chic umbrella can become a beautiful prop! Clear ones let the light in and keep the focus on your teen’s face and outfit.

3. Use Covered Locations
Porches, archways, or gazebo-style structures are perfect for keeping everyone dry while still capturing great light and atmosphere.

4. Layer Smartly
Have your teen wear a stylish coat or shawl for some shots—especially during group photos. You can always remove it for a few quick snaps.

5. Look for Reflections
Rainy pavement can create dreamy reflections—perfect for creative wide-angle shots, especially of shoes or full-length poses.

Soak it all in. This is such a special moment in your teen’s life — a celebration of who they are and who they’re becoming. Take a deep breath, snap those sweet photos, and enjoy every second. The dress, the laughter, the sparkle in their eyes — it all goes by so fast, but your love (and those photos!) will keep the memory alive forever.