Senior year is one of those whirlwind seasons where everything feels like it’s happening all at once. Between college applications, sports schedules, graduation planning, and just trying to soak up every last moment of high school, it’s easy for senior portraits to slip down the priority list. But here’s the thing-if you want the very best experience (and the best dates), booking early matters more than you might realize.

As a senior photographer in Lansing, Michigan, one of the first questions I get from parents is, “When should we book?” Let’s break it down so you can feel confident about your timeline and avoid that last-minute scramble.

Why Early Booking Is Key

Senior portraits aren’t just another to-do item. They’re one of the only tangible keepsakes from this huge milestone in your teen’s life. And because of that, they require planning—not just for the session itself, but for everything that comes after. Most families want images in time for yearbook deadlines, graduation announcements, open house displays, and holiday gifts for grandparents. That means waiting until the last minute can cause unnecessary stress.

The best photographers in your area typically book out several months in advance, especially during the peak months of late summer and early fall. If you wait too long, you might find that your preferred dates—or even your preferred photographer—are already taken.

I always tell parents to think ahead at least three to six months. For the Class of 2026, for example, the best time to start planning would be late spring or early summer before senior year begins.

The Best Seasons for Senior Portraits

Every season brings its own personality to a senior session, and the “best” time really depends on the look you’re going for.

Summer sessions have a relaxed, carefree vibe. The greenery is lush, the sunsets are golden, and your senior probably isn’t stressed with the chaos of the school year yet. There’s also more flexibility in scheduling since they’re not juggling homework and after-school activities.

Fall sessions are by far the most popular. The rich autumn colors make for stunning backdrops, and the weather is still mild enough to be comfortable. Think cozy layers, warm tones, and that dreamy golden-hour glow. But because fall is so in demand, those dates are the first to fill—another reason why booking early is crucial.

Spring sessions are a beautiful choice if you want fresh, light, and airy images with blooming flowers. The tricky part is timing—you’re often working around unpredictable weather and a busy end-of-year schedule packed with prom, finals, and graduation prep.

Winter sessions are less common, but they can be breathtaking if you want something different. Imagine soft falling snow or a more dramatic cityscape with winter layers. They’re not for everyone, but for the right senior, it can create a truly unique look.

Ultimately, there’s no single “perfect” season. It’s about finding the time that fits your senior’s style, personality, and schedule.

Thinking Beyond the Session Date

Booking your session early doesn’t just secure a spot—it also gives you plenty of time to prepare. You’ll have time to plan outfits, talk through locations, and make sure your senior feels 100% ready for their shoot.

It also matters for what comes after the session. Editing takes time, especially if you want professional, polished images that still look natural. Most photographers deliver galleries two to four weeks after the session. If you’re ordering prints, albums, or graduation announcements, you’ll need to allow even more time for designing and printing.

That’s why last-minute bookings can get tricky. If you wait until April or May to do photos, you may find yourself in a tight crunch trying to get everything ready before graduation season.

The Ideal Booking Timeline

If you want the easiest, most stress-free experience, here’s a general rule of thumb:

• Start researching and contacting photographers late spring or early summer before senior year.
• Schedule the actual session for mid to late summer if you want greenery, or early fall if you want those warm autumn tones.
• Plan to have your images finalized by late fall, which leaves plenty of time for yearbook deadlines and holiday gifts.

Of course, every family’s schedule is a little different, and I always work with you to find a date that makes sense. But the earlier you book, the more options you’ll have.

Why Waiting Until the Last Minute Doesn’t Work

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “We just didn’t realize how fast the year would go!” Senior year really does fly by. Before you know it, it’s spring, and suddenly you’re trying to squeeze in photos, cap-and-gown orders, prom, and graduation prep all at the same time.

Booking early allows you and your senior to enjoy the experience without rushing. It also ensures you’re working with someone you trust rather than whoever still has a last-minute opening.

Let’s Lock in the Perfect Date

Senior portraits are more than just photos. They’re a celebration of who your teen is right now—their personality, their style, and the incredible person they’ve become before stepping into adulthood.

So, when is the best time to book? Right now. If you’re even thinking about senior photos, reach out early to secure a spot. You’ll thank yourself later when you’re calmly planning instead of scrambling for a last-minute date.

If you’re in Lansing or the surrounding Michigan area and ready to start planning, I’d love to create something unforgettable for your senior. Let’s chat about the best season, the best locations, and the best way to tell their story through images they’ll cherish for years.

Contact me today to reserve your senior portrait session.