THE JOURNAL

Even if your junior year isn’t over yet, you might be wondering if it’s too soon to take your senior portraits. You might wonder if you’re planning way too far ahead, but there’s no such thing! 

In reality, it’s better to plan early since most senior photographers book their best days rather quickly! It’s best to book a senior photographer at least three to six months in advance, especially if you want your photos taken during peak seasons like late spring, summer, and fall.

If you still need some convincing, here’s a full breakdown of why early booking is important:  

Why Book Early?

Secure your preferred photographer: The peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve booked your go-to photographer is unmatched. It’s better to book a senior photographer early because many fill their calendars quickly. Once you know the photographer you want to capture your photos, book a date first, and then you can plan the location and outfits later.

Get the best dates: Booking early ensures access to prime shooting times, like golden-hour sessions or peak fall foliage. This is especially important since most seniors choose to have their photos taken outdoors instead of in an indoor studio.  While no photographer can guarantee what the weather or lighting will be like, we have enough experience to know what seasons and times of day are best for capturing the style of photos you’re looking for. However, those times book up fast! 

Plan for yearbook deadlines: Schools often have specific deadlines for yearbook photo submissions, so booking in advance gives us plenty of time for editing and delivery. Trust me, you don’t want to leave this until the last minute. My clients always receive a sneak peek photograph within a week of their session, but some of your favorite images from the final gallery may not be a part of your sneak peeks! Essentially, the more time you have before the deadline, the better. 

Customize your session: Early planning gives us time to coordinate locations, outfits, and any props or themes. If you want a specialized location that isn’t frequently used for photography, it’s best to provide ample time for your photographer to obtain any necessary permits or permission. Also, some senior photographers (including myself!) are willing to scout out the space or location before the day, so it helps to have more time to choose the perfect location for your shoot. 
Flexibility with weather reschedules: For outdoor sessions, earlier bookings make it easier to reschedule if the weather disrupts the original date. While I’m all for embracing whatever the weather throws us (yes, even on the windier days!), there might be times when rescheduling just makes sense.

When do you take senior pictures?

Okay, so you know that you need to book your senior photographer early. But now you have to decide what time of year you want your photos to be taken!

If you are asking yourself when to take senior photos, I have a quick checklist to help you choose the best time of year. Minnesota is best known for its variety of seasons (and wow, do we have a wide variety!), so here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you decide:

Spring (March-May)

• Pros: Fresh blooms, vibrant greenery, and soft natural light.
• Cons: Unpredictable weather, and higher potential for rain.
• Best for: Seniors who love florals and pastel colors or want a bright, cheerful feel.

Summer (June-August)

• Pros: Long days with golden-hour lighting and lush landscapes.
• Cons: Hot weather (and humidity), harsher midday sun, and busier schedules.
• Best for: Outdoor lovers who want a warm, sunny aesthetic or senior athletes wanting sports-themed shots.

Fall (September-November)

• Pros: Stunning foliage, rich and warm tones, and cozy sweater weather.
• Cons: Shorter daylight hours and rapidly changing weather.
• Best for: Seniors who love earthy, rustic vibes or classic autumn colors.

Winter (December-February)

• Pros: Unique snowy backdrops or moody and dramatic lighting.
• Cons: Cold temperatures and fewer outdoor options.
• Best for: Those who want an unconventional, magical, or minimalist winter aesthetic.

Between booking early and deciding on your favorite season, you’re well on your way to the best senior photo session ever! However, the planning doesn’t stop there, but luckily for you, I have a whole blog post on how to prepare for your session. 

Class of 2026 sessions open up on April 1! Sessions this year are limited, so be one of the first to snag a spot by contacting me below!