Planning your senior pictures is exciting, but choosing the perfect date can be overwhelming and stressful. Your schedule is busy, figuring out what to wear can be daunting, and not knowing your yearbook deadline can make things challenging. In this post, I’ll help you decide when you should take your senior pictures, which season is best for you, and offer ideas on what to wear.

Speaking of the best time to book your senior pictures, you can join my waitlist to get the most up-to-date information about the booking process, get more blog posts sent to you, and be given the exact date when you can book your senior pictures with Kristen Elizabeth Photography.

Minneapolis Senior Photographers Schedules Fill Up Fast

If you plan to have your senior pictures taken in the Minneapolis area, booking early is important. Senior photographers’ schedules tend to fill up months in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and fall (my schedule opens in a few weeks for seniors). These seasons are popular because of the beautiful weather, longer daylight hours, and vibrant landscapes. Waiting too long to book your senior photos will limit your available dates and cause you to rush your outfits. Mid to late September is a very popular time for pictures; if you want the fall colors, book as soon as possible.

Don’t worry; if you choose a date and it decides to rain, it’s extremely hot and humid or windy. Here at Kristen Elizabeth Photography, rescheduling is free and easy! I will stay in touch with you before the photoshoot, and if the weather looks like it won’t cooperate with us, we will work to find a time to get your senior pictures taken. If it starts to rain during the photo shoot, we can wait and see if it will end soon or work together to reschedule the remaining portion.

What Season Do You Want Your Senior Pictures Taken?

The season you choose for your senior pictures sets the tone for your photos. Each season has its unique characteristics, so consider your preferences and the pros and cons of each:

Spring (May – Early June)

• PROS
  • Fresh greenery and blooming flowers create vibrant backdrops.
  • Comfortable temperatures make for enjoyable sessions.
  • The mosquitos and other bugs aren’t as prominent yet.
  • Little to no humidity.
• CONS
  • Weather can be unpredictable, with occasional rain or lingering chill.

Summer (June-August)

• PROS
  • Bright sunshine and long daylight hours offer flexibility.
  • Perfect for showcasing summer outfits and a fresh tan.
  • Wildflowers and lush greenery provide stunning natural settings.
• CONS
  • Heat and humidity can be challenging for hair and makeup.
  • Mosquitoes and crowds at popular locations may require extra planning.

Fall (September-October)

• PROS
  • Gorgeous autumn foliage adds warm tones and a cozy vibe.
    • Typically, peak colors are from late September to early October.
  • Cooler temperatures make it easier to wear layered outfits.
  • Ideal timing for yearbook deadlines and holiday cards.
• CONS
  • Shorter days mean earlier sessions, which may conflict with school or activities.
  • It is the most popular season for family photos, so book early and plan ahead as my calendar fills up quickly during this time of year.

What Do You Wear for Your Senior Pictures?

Your outfit plays a significant role in how your senior pictures turn out. Think about the vibe you want your photos to convey—classic, trendy, or unique—and choose outfits that align with your style and the season. For example:

• Spring/Summer: Light and flowy dresses or skirts, casual shorts, polos, or a spring or summer-colored top.
• Fall: Cozy sweaters, flannels, and earthy tones that compliment the fall foliage.

Accessories like hats, jewelry, and shoes can add a personal touch to your look. Aim for a mix of casual and formal outfits to give you variety in your photos. You also want diverse outfits so you don’t look the same in all your photos.

Looking for more tips on what to wear for your senior pictures?

I wrote a blog on what to wear for senior pictures. If you have any questions when choosing your outfits, I’m always available to chat with you before we take your senior pictures and help you decide what to wear.

When Are Your Senior Pictures Due for the Yearbook?

Yearbook deadlines vary by school, so double-check with your school’s guidelines to ensure you meet the submission requirements. In most cases, I have found that most senior pictures are due by Halloween in the Minneapolis area. Booking your senior photos during the summer or early fall gives you ample time to review and select your favorite images. You will receive 10 sneak peeks within 24 hours after your senior pictures; that way, if you chose a fall date and we’re running low on time, you can get a photo submitted.

Final Thoughts

Deciding when to take your senior pictures comes down to your personal preference, schedule, and what you want the background to look like. Whether you choose the blooming flowers of spring, sunny summer skies, or vibrant fall colors, each season has its benefits. By planning ahead and scheduling your senior photos as soon as you can, your senior photos will turn out exactly how you want them.

Remember to join my waitlist to get the most up-to-date information about booking your senior photos with Kristen Elizabeth Photography. The booking schedule opens soon! You will also receive more tips and guides to help you prepare for your senior pictures.