The questions “when are senior photos taken” and “when do you take senior portraits” come to me often from both parents and high school seniors throughout the school year, and with all the juggling that goes on during the last few years of a student’s school career, all too often that call comes at the very last minute.
Don’t worry! As a photographer who captures the magic of those last moments before childhood is over, I’ve got everything you need to know about senior pictures right here. Find out when to call to schedule your senior session, when the best time is to take senior photos, and more!
First thing’s first, when should you call to schedule the appointment? It’s a lot earlier than you may think! 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!
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.
What are you going to wear? My special wardrobe guide will offer up suggestions, plus I’m available for consultations! All that said, you may want to add in some time for a quick shopping trip!
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!
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 Catskills fall backdrop, and others want to get some snow in their photos.
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!
But after years of working with seniors, I’ve found that the very best time for senior portraits is during the summer between junior year and senior year. Here’s why.