When is the best time of year to take your senior pictures? Truthfully, there is no one-size-fits-all
answer! It really depends on your personality, the vibes you are going for, and scheduling. Every senior deserves pictures that are unique and show off their personality, and the scenery around you plays a big factor in how this is displayed. Some people love the warm, cozy look that fall brings, others love the bright colors and glow of summer – regardless of what you lean towards, it’s important to choose what makes you feel good over what everyone else is doing!

Summer

The summer before senior year is my favorite time for pictures! This is one of the most popular
times to book senior photos. This is usually because schedules are a little less chaotic, and seniors aren’t as overwhelmed with activities and assignments. Another bonus is that the sun sets later in the day, making it easier to add on hair and makeup, or add time to a session.

Scheduling isn’t the only perk of summertime; it’s also the best time for a bold, glowy feel and picture-perfect golden hour shots. If you’re obsessed with greenery and vibrant blooms, booking earlier in the summer will give you much more flexibility with locations! Booking early also gives you more freedom with scheduling, especially if you tend to get busier as the school year approaches.

Fall

The fall of senior year is the most in-demand season for so many reasons! Seniors are usually drawn to this time of year because of the warm tones, cozy vibes, and cinematic lighting. This season draws in family sessions, proposals, weddings, maternity, plus seniors! To avoid scheduling issues in this busy season, try to book early to ensure you get exactly what you want for your milestone pictures!

Spring

If you love a similar feel to summer, but aren’t big on heat, spring is perfect for you! This time of year brings a light, fresh, romantic vibe to your senior pictures. This is the last window to sneak in some pictures before graduation, which also makes it a wonderful time to showcase your growth throughout your last year of high school. Spring tends to be when students receive their cap and gown, so this is the perfect time to add those pictures to your session!

Best Time of Day for Pictures

To create the best images for your style, time of day matters just as much as the season. My personal favorite time for pictures is golden hour! It creates the most beautiful glow, with warm and vibrant colors, giving any senior a soft, natural look. Lighting is definitely important for any image, and it affects the feel of a gallery more than most people realize. Finding the ideal lighting creates the best setting for your pictures and helps me create the best images for you!

Things to Consider:

1. Yearbook Deadlines

This is one of those things that sneaks up on seniors and their parents. Make sure to check your school’s deadline before booking your session; some schools want these in the fall, so give yourself plenty of time to take and receive your images ahead of schedule.

2. Schedules

It’s no secret that senior year passes in the blink of an eye, which means schedules fill up super quickly! Between all of the sports, clubs, jobs, college prep, and ‘last’ milestones, it’s easy to let other deadlines slip through the cracks. Don’t let your senior pictures be one of them! Book your session early to avoid unnecessary stress and last-minute decisions.

3. Graduation Announcements & Party Invitations

Yearbook deadlines, graduation announcements, and parties sneak up on people!
Booking your pictures ahead of time gives you the freedom to enjoy your session and
the excitement leading up to graduation. This can make your party planning process
much easier, especially knowing that you don’t have to print any last-minute invitations!

Final Thoughts

There is no “right” or “wrong” time for senior pictures! Take seasons into consideration when deciding what feels best to you, your outfits and style, and your favorite weather. The best time is really up to you, in any season that makes you excited and confident. Through all of this, we can make your vision and personality shine through your senior pictures! If reading this inspired you to bring your “Senior Pictures” Pinterest board to life, I would love to make that happen! To book your dream date before schedules get busy, send me an inquiry here!

xoxo,

Alexis Johnson