Senior year is a whirlwind—and somewhere between prom planning, college visits, and graduation announcements, it hits you it’s time to book senior photos.
Whether this is your first senior or your last, here’s everything you need to know to make the experience stress-free, fun, and unforgettable—for both of you.
Timing Is Everything
When should we book?
The best time to book senior portraits is spring or early fall of senior year. These seasons offer the best lighting, weather, and natural backdrops—and they give you plenty of time to check all the senior photo “must-dos” off your list, like:
- ✅ Yearbook photo submissions
- ✅ Graduation announcements and invites
- ✅ Cap & gown shots later in the year
- ✅ Prints or albums to gift grandparents
- ✅ Enough wiggle room for outfit changes or reschedules if weather doesn’t cooperate
Spring gives off soft, floral vibes, while early fall brings warm tones and golden light—perfect for outdoor photos. If you wait too long, calendars book up quickly (especially around Bluebonnet time!), and you risk missing ideal lighting or having to settle on a less-than-perfect time slot.
My recommendation: Reach out at least 2–3 months in advance to get your preferred date, especially if you want those dreamy golden-hour shots and time for any outfit or location planning. Booking early = more options, less stress, and a better overall experience.
What to Expect During the Session
My teen hates taking pictures—will this be awkward?
Totally get it—most seniors aren’t professional models, and many aren’t exactly thrilled about posing for the camera. That’s why my senior sessions are relaxed, easygoing, and designed to bring out the real personality behind the smile.
There’s no stiff posing or fake grins here. Instead, we walk around, chat, laugh, and I guide them with natural prompts so the photos feel like them—not a version of them trying to look perfect. I’ll ask about their favorite music, sports, plans after graduation, and even let them pick the playlist if they want.
Think of it less like a photoshoot and more like hanging out—with a camera and great light.
I also give just enough direction to help with hand placement, posture, and angles—so your teen feels confident, not awkward.
Oh—and yes, you’re totally welcome to tag along! Parents often help with outfit swaps, hype their senior up, or just enjoy watching their teen shine.
The result? Images that feel natural, confident, and true to this moment in their life.
Outfits Matter
“Help! What should they wear?”
You’re not alone—this is one of the most common questions I get before a senior session. The good news? It doesn’t have to be stressful.
I always recommend 2–3 outfits for variety:
- One casual everyday look (jeans + tee, or something laid-back they’d actually wear)
- One dressy or elevated outfit (think something they'd wear to a banquet, church, or awards night)
- One outfit that shows off personality or passion (sports jersey, dance outfit, letterman jacket, or college tee)
Here are a few tips to keep it easy (and camera-ready):
- Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns—these photograph best and won’t compete with your senior’s face or the background
- Avoid neon colors or large logos, which can distract or reflect light oddly
- Choose clothes that fit well and make your teen feel confident (this alone can change their entire vibe during the shoot)
- Bring a few accessories (jackets, hats, necklaces, etc.)—layering gives us more variety without a full outfit change
I’m more than happy to review outfit options if you want a second opinion. You can even text me pictures as you plan!
Pro tip: Shoes matter too! Make sure they're clean, comfortable, and match the outfit—bonus points if they’re “so them.”
Locations
“Where do we shoot?”
The location sets the tone of your senior’s photos—so it should feel like them. Some seniors want wide open fields and sunsets. Others want brick walls, urban vibes, or something meaningful to their journey.
We’ll talk through their personality and style to find the perfect spot. Some of my favorite go-to locations around Montgomery, TX and nearby areas include:
- 🌾 Open fields and trails for warm, golden-hour light and relaxed country vibes
- 🎓 School campuses or stadiums for seniors who want to celebrate their high school journey
- 🧱 Downtown streets or textured walls for something modern, artsy, or a little edgy
- 🌅 Lakeside parks or wooded areas for natural light and peaceful surroundings
- 🏀 Custom locations—like family land, barns, favorite hangouts, or sports facilities—to really make it theirs
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry—I’ve got a full list of locations with sample photos, and I’ll guide you through what works best depending on lighting, outfit choices, and your teen’s vibe. I also scout new spots regularly, so we’re never limited to the same old backgrounds.
Want something totally unique? I’m always up for a location that means something to you—a ranch, backyard, or even a cool parking garage can become the perfect backdrop with the right angle and light.
The goal: make it personal, not just pretty.
Ready to Book or Have Questions
Let’s chat!
Whether you’re just starting to plan or ready to lock in a session date, I’d love to help you create something meaningful.
👉 [Contact Me Here]
