Prom means a lot of different things to different people. Whether you’re most excited for the time spent with friends, the dancing, or even the food, we know what part is essential to any high school prom experience: taking prom photos!

While there’s always the traditional, standing and smiling photos, many may want some more creative ideas for their prom pics. We’ve compiled a list of 17 of the best prom photos for yourself, you and your date, and even your friend group! (Also, keep scrolling to vote for your favorite prom poses!)

Individual Photo Ideas

Candid

The best photos aren’t always the posed ones! Candid photos include you moving & laughing, and it tends to look more natural than normal posed photos.

Glitter

Grab some glitter or confetti, hold it in your palms, and blow it towards the camera. These pics give you a little extra sparkle, and it gives you a chance to have some fun with your photoshoot!

In Nature

Taking photos outside normally gives you the best lighting, and it’s especially fun if you find some flowers, trees, or anything else outside that matches your dress! Spaces in nature can be a great backdrop for all of your prom photos.

Use Unique Architecture

Want a chance to showcase your full dress? Find a spot in your town, at your school, or even at your house that has a fun doorway or unique architecture, and break out your modeling skills!

Showcase the Back

Sometimes the back of your dress deserves just as much attention as the front! Make sure to get some back-facing shots to capture the full beauty of your dress.

Cinderella Twirl

A princess gown deserves a princess twirl! Spin and move to create some magical shots of you in your dress.

Couple Photo Ideas

Pick Them Up

Grab your date and spin them around! This pose will have a candid romantic feel as you're looking into each other's eyes.

Dip!

This is another movement shot that will have you and your date laughing in no time. You’ll also get some dance practice before prom starts!

Walk Towards/Away From Camera

To get a more candid look with your partner, grab hands or link arms and strut towards or away from the camera!

Kiss on the Cheek

For a sweet photo, give your date a kiss on the cheek. This is a classic but timeless pose for your prom pics!

Double Date

Grab another couple and strike matching poses to get a fun group photo that still showcases you and your date!

Group Photo Ideas

Balloons

Balloons are the perfect prop for your group prom pics! Grab some number balloons to celebrate your graduation year, or get everyone a balloon that matches their dress for some fun color coordination.

Hand Guns Out

Go back to back and hit the classic “Charlie’s Angels” pose for another fun pic!

Sit on Steps

For a regal photo option, use a fun set of steps as your photo prop. Sit on separate levels to create a dramatic look!

Selfie Shot

You heard us right, take a picture of a picture! Act like you’re posing for a selfie while the camera person gets a shot of everyone together. Don’t be afraid to actually take a selfie here to capture the memory twice!

Jumping Shot

A classic group photo inspired by High School Musical that gets everyone involved. Try and take this one on concrete to avoid your heels sinking into the grass when you land!

Corsages!

A great one for the gals is to bring all your corsages together. Another classic prom photo that is a must have!