When Should You Do Your Senior Portrait Session? A Guide to the Seasons
Senior year is full of excitement, milestones, and big decisions—including when to book your senior portraits. The time of year you choose can totally shape the vibe of your photos, from the colors in the background to the style of clothing you wear. As a photographer who works with high school seniors year after year, I’ve learned that each season has its own personality—and its own pros and cons.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect with each season:
Late Summer (August–early September)
Pros:
Warm, golden light and predictable weather make this a great time for outdoor portraits.
Sessions don’t compete with school, sports, or club schedules.
Sun-kissed skin from summer makes for a healthy glow.
Your photos will be ready early for senior Sundays and yearbook deadlines.
The river is generally low enough for beautiful portraits near or in the water.
Cons:
The heat can still be intense, especially earlier in August.
Seniors may change their hair drastically during the school year, making photos feel less current later on.
Fall (late September–early November)
Pros:
Gorgeous fall leaves create rich, colorful backdrops.
Think cozy sweaters, boots, and layered looks—fall fashion is always a win.
Great timing for meeting yearbook deadlines.
The river usually remains low enough for those dreamy water-side shots.
Cons:
Fall weather is unpredictable—think wind, gray skies, or surprise cold snaps.
Daylight hours are shorter, so sessions often need to start earlier in the day, which can conflict with sports or after-school activities.
Parks and popular photo spots can be crowded with other photographers and families.
Winter
I don’t offer outdoor sessions in the winter—cold temps, bare trees, and unpredictable conditions just don’t set the tone for the kind of senior experience I want to deliver. I would love to photograph seniors in the snow, it’s just way to unpredictable to time.
Spring (late March–May)
Pros:
Spring is bursting with life—flowers, fresh greenery, and tall grasses give a soft, airy look.
The parks are often less crowded than during the busy fall season.
It’s a great way to celebrate the final stretch of senior year.
Cons:
Early spring can still be a bit chilly depending on the weather.
Booking too late might mean cutting it close for graduation announcements or party invites.
The river tends to be high and fast-flowing this time of year, so water-side or in-the-river shots aren’t an option.
Final Thoughts
Every season tells a different story—and the best time for your session depends on the story you want to tell.
