What Time of the Year Should I Take My Senior Photos?

While a big part of senior year is applying to colleges, other important milestones happen during this special time, too. One of the most memorable is your senior photoshoot — there's nothing more fun than capturing this transformative, exciting moment (as well as your personality) before you step into the next chapter of your life.

That's why I invited Suzanne Barnes, a portrait photographer in The Woodlands, Texas, to help you consider the perfect season for your senior photos. (Hint: There's no wrong answer, but understanding the pros and cons of each season will help you make the best choice for your style and preferences!)

Planning Your Senior Photoshoot Timing

There are a few decisions you’ll need to make as you plan your senior photoshoot, and when to schedule your session is one of the most important.

While there's no on best season, in the end, it comes down to your personal preferences and the types of photos you’d prefer.

Let's explore what each season has to offer!

Spring

Senior photoshoot in spring with blooming flowers and greenery.

By scheduling your session in the spring of your junior year, you may end up taking photos before your senior year, but that’s perfectly fine. (It might also work out to your advantage!)

Pros

• You avoid the rush by getting your photos done early on.
• The weather is typically mild. It probably won't be freezing cold or too hot for outdoor shoots.
• Beautiful spring flowers and fresh greenery create stunning natural backdrops.

Cons

• There’s always a slight chance of rain during the spring months.
• If you wait to take your photos until the spring of your senior year — just weeks before graduation — you’ll almost certainly be missing your yearbook deadlines, and you might not have printed photos for your graduation party.

Summer

Senior photoshoot in summer with bright lighting and vibrant colors.

Summer is a popular choice for senior photo sessions because it’s such a positive, energetic time of year.

Pros

• More hours of sunshine and daylight for flexible scheduling.
• No need for heavy layers or bulky clothing in your photos.
• More flexible scheduling during school breaks.
• Option to get a natural tan before your session so you have a natural glow.
• Abundance of wildflowers that look stunning in photos.

Cons

• The heat can be uncomfortable, especially in Texas.
• Humidity can create challenges for hair styling (hello, frizz and flyaways).
• More bugs to contend with during outdoor shoots (watch out for fire ants!).
• Popular public locations tend to be busier during summer months.

Fall

Senior photoshoot in fall with colorful foliage and golden light.

Fall is also an incredibly popular photoshoot season for many seniors across the United States — and for good reason.

Pros

• Rich autumn colors create some of the most beautiful, dramatic backdrops.
• Temperatures are more comfortable after summer heat subsides.
• Golden hour lighting in fall creates a magical, soft glow in photos.

Cons

• Public spaces with fall foliage tend to be busier with other photographers.
• Earlier sunsets combined with school schedules can make timing challenging.
• This popular season books up quickly with photographers.
• Here in Texas, we can experience heavier rainfall in fall, especially November.

Winter

Senior photoshoot in winter with unique lighting and cozy styling.

Don't overlook winter! While it might be cooler, you can capture truly beautiful and unique senior photos during this season.

Pros

• Public spaces are quieter, giving you more location options without crowds.
• Winter photos stand out as more unique compared to the typical senior portfolio.
• Photographers generally have more availability during winter months.
• Studio options provide warm, controlled environments for diverse looks.

Cons

• Colder temperatures can limit outdoor shooting time and comfort.
• Increased cloud cover and earlier sunsets affect natural lighting.
• Less natural greenery and flowers in the landscape.
• Potential to miss yearbook deadlines, depending on your school's timeline.

Ready to Plan Your Perfect Senior Session?

Now that you have a better understanding of what each season offers, you can make an informed decision about when to schedule your senior photoshoot. Consider your personal style, schedule constraints, and the specific look you're hoping to achieve.

Remember, there's no “wrong” season — each offers unique opportunities to capture this special milestone in your life!

About the Photographer

Suzanne Barnes is a portrait photographer serving families and high school seniors in The Woodlands, Texas, and the surrounding areas. She’s passionate about saving your family’s memories and milestones, and she believes in getting images off of hard drives and into hands. You can learn more about her photography studio at www.suzannebarnesphotography.com.