Senior Photos Planning and Resource Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
When Is the best time of year to take Senior Photos?
Some seniors opt to take their portraits in the summer, to make sure they secure a date that works well for them, while many others schedule their sessions for the autumn when the leaves are turning colors. The most important consideration is making sure the session is on the calendar well before the yearbook deadlines. No matter when you choose to schedule your session, I’m happy to work with whatever is best for you. Please note that dates fill up quickly.
What Time of Day is Best for Senior Portraits?
Sunrise and sunset are when the light turns golden and the shadows are long. Photographers use the term “golden hour” for a reason! We are able to get really beautiful images at these times. If choosing between sunrise and sunset, sunset is usually the better of the two, since the light is warmer.
Studio, Garden, or Someplace else?
The studio is great if you’re concerned about the weather or want a specific studio background or lighting that can only be achieved in the studio. My portrait garden is wonderfully diverse with many different places to photograph (pond, path through a shade garden, etc.), and is a great choice for those who appreciate being outdoors and want a more natural environment. I also travel and will happily meet you at conservation land or a special place of your choice (local pond, historic park, stable, beach, etc.).
What Should I bring to my Senior Session?
Bring a few different tops and consider bringing something important to you, such as athletic equipment (baseball mitt, skis, etc.), your pet, personal passions (books, instruments, etc.), or even your team’s uniform or jacket. If in doubt, bring it, and we can make a decision on whether to include it when we’re together.
How to Plan Your Senior Session
Choose a Location
Whether you choose someplace scenic, a place that holds meaning to you, or even your own home, the possibilities are endless.
My studio’s portrait garden, conveniently located in Concord a mile from Verrill Farm, has shaded paths through wooded gardens, a landscaped pond, and evergreen and deciduous trees that offer lovely fall foliage. Best of all, my portrait garden is a short walking distance from conservation land, which boasts stone walls, fields, and wooded paths with dappled light. It’s a joy to photograph in such a beautiful place and to capture amazing images here.
Athletes sometimes choose to be photographed where they practice, such as an ice rink, their boathouse, a local stable, or even the woods where they run and train. Concord and the surrounding towns offer many historic and beautiful places, including the Old North Bridge, the Buttrick House, conservation land, and beautiful fields, rivers, and ponds. Minuteman National Historical Park winds through town and has several wonderful places for photos. Historic homes in both Concord and Lincoln have beautiful grounds to roam, large shade trees, and many beautiful spots to be photographed. I also share some secret locations with my clients so you can have truly unique senior portraits. With so many beautiful and unique backdrops available for your portraits, you will have lots to choose from.
Plan the Logistics
I’ll work with you to decide where you’ll be photographed, what you need to bring with you, and the timing of the photo session.
Determine Your Wardrobe
Feel free to come to your session with some outfit changes. It’s great to change up your tops and accessories or change your outfit in some other ways.
Clothing tips: In general, long sleeves are best because you don’t want bare arms to detract from your face. Choose colors that complement your skin tone and pieces you love or that have garnered compliments.
Get In Touch
If you’re looking for a photographer and you connect with my work, I would love to hear from you!
Want more ideas for great portrait locations? Check out my Location Guide!
Want to see more senior photos? Please visit my Senior Gallery!
Any questions? Contact me!
