SEnior Pictures
Seniors are each a story waiting to be told—no two are alike, and their portraits should reflect that individuality. Every senior brings their own personality, style, interests, and journey, making each session a chance to create something truly one-of-a-kind. Whether it’s a quiet confidence, a bold sense of fashion, a love for sports, music, or art, these unique traits shine through in the images. Capturing senior portraits is not about cookie-cutter poses; it’s about celebrating who they are at this pivotal moment in life. The goal is to create images that are as distinct and memorable as the individuals themselves—photos that reflect their energy, dreams, and the story they’re just beginning to tell.
EVERYTHING you need to know about Senior Pictures!
When to Schedule Senior Photos
I recommend parents (or teens!) reach out to book their senior session in late winter or early spring of their junior year.
Now, let me be clear. This is not when the photos will actually be taken. However, reaching out this early ensures you’ll get the date you want on the photographer’s calendar, plus it helps me set you up for the exact type of session you want.
Here are just a few things that are going to happen that make calling early in your junior year your best bet!
CHECKING THE SCHEDULE
There’s the photographer’s schedule to talk about, of course. The early bird always gets the worm, or in this case the date they want in between all those summer weddings, family sessions and more.
GRABBING THE LOCATION
I have a number of private locations for sessions that don’t require any advance planning, but there are some places that do take some extra planning. Hoping to get into the school gym for some photos of their favorite sport? We’ll have to call ahead.
Have a spot in mind that requires permits to be on the site? That can add some advance planning time, and the sooner we know, the sooner I can do the legwork to make the session a success!
What Is the Best Time for Senior Portraits?
OK, so when is the best time to actually take the photos?
Certainly the aesthetic you’re going for will play a role here. Some people love the look of a fall backdrop, and others want to get some snow in their photos. I also have an in home studio where we can create all sorts pf magic!
Senior photos are typically taken anytime between the end of the junior year and the end of the senior year of high school. There’s no exact time requirements, unless you’re looking for a photo for your yearbook, which means we have to go by the yearbook deadline!
I’ve found that the very best time for senior portraits is during the summer between junior year and senior year. Here’s why.
Scheduling Is Simpler. Typically after-school activities have not yet started, and older siblings haven’t yet returned to college. Kids aren’t yet trying to juggle college applications with schoolwork and everything else that comes flying at them for senior year. The days are also longer, offering us plenty of hours in the day to fit in a session, and school gyms and tracks tend to be empty.
Rescheduling Is Easier. I love outdoor sessions, but they do put us at the whim of Mother Nature! If you’ve scheduled a summer senior session and the weather is not cooperating, there’s still time to get a pretty backdrop if we have to push it back a few weeks.
It’s Warmer. The bold reds and brilliant oranges of fall foliage is absolutely beautiful, but it does tend to turn cold quickly here in Ohio. It’s Lush and Green. The fall is beautiful, but it’s hard to beat that gorgeous greenery of a Ohio Spring or Summer if you’re thinking we’ll stick to an outdoor session!
What to wear!
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