How Each Season Impacts Your Senior Photo Experience

For the Class of 2026 seniors who want photos that feel like YOU.

Your senior year deserves more than just a quick photo session—it deserves an experience that reflects who you are. One of the first things to consider when planning your senior portraits is what time of year feels most “you.” Each season brings something special to the table—from golden summer light to cozy fall colors to dreamy spring blooms.

Here’s a breakdown of what each season can offer you (and what to keep in mind as you plan your session):

Pros:

• Wildflowers & fresh green growth
• Dreamy, nature-inspired aesthetic
• Softer light = super flattering for portraits
• You can wear just about anything

Cons:

• You’ll likely need to plan ahead and shoot during your junior year, since most senior photo deadlines fall in the fall of senior year
• Can be muddy, especially in the mountains or fields
• Weather can be unpredictable
• Most of your friends won’t be doing photos yet (but that also means your photos will stand out!)

Pros:

• GORGEOUS golden hour light
• Full creative freedom with outfits
• You've got your summer tan
• Later sunsets = longer shoots
• Ideal timing for yearbook deadlines
• Iconic summer vibes—timeless and scenic

Cons:

• Can be hot (and sometimes smoky)
• Bugs may try to crash your shoot
• Requires some planning ahead
• Busy season for photographers, so dates book quickly

This little window (late August to mid-September) is my personal favorite and also my most requested season last year!

• Trees are still green and lush
• The fields are golden
• You’ve still got that summer tan
• Endless options for locations

If you’re not sure which season to pick, this might just be your no brainer.

Pros:

• Great for last-minute planners
• Stunning fall foliage
• Sweater weather vibes
• Lines up perfectly with most yearbook deadlines

Cons:

• Fall sports and school schedules can make booking tricky
• Sun sets much earlier = shorter session windows
• Weather can be unpredictable
• Outfit options are a bit more limited (but layers photograph beautifully!)
• Your gallery will definitely feel like fall—make sure that’s your vibe

Pros:

• Moody, editorial feel
• Snowy portraits are next-level magical
• Overcast light is soft and flattering
• Unique choice—great for those who want something different

Cons:

• You’ll be very close to most yearbook deadlines
• It’s cold. Like… really cold.
• Weather reschedules are likely
• Wardrobe options are more limited
• Like fall, you’ll want to LOVE the look of this season

A Quick Heads-Up!

November gets BUSY. Last year I had to turn away multiple seniors because their preferred date was already booked. Don’t wait until the last minute!

Let’s Make This Your Year

Your senior photos should feel like you—your style, your favorite season, your personality. I help all my seniors plan every step of the way, from choosing outfits to picking the perfect location and season.

Ready to get started?

Check out my pricing and planning resources:

Maybe you're ready to book with me and get your dream vibe locked in!

Fill out this contact form to start planning with me! I'm excited to hear from you.