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There are a few decisions you’re going to need to make as you plan your senior photoshoot and when to schedule your session is one of them.

So, what season is the best? 

In the end, it comes down to your personal preferences and the types of photos you would prefer.

Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of each season to help you make the best choice.

Spring

By choosing to schedule your session in spring, you may end up taking photos before your senior year, but that’s perfectly fine. 

      Pros

•       Avoid the rush by getting your photos done early on. 
•       If you choose to take your photos outside, it won’t be freezing cold or too hot. 
•       Benefit from beautiful spring flowers and greenery as your backdrop. 

      Cons

•       There is always a slight chance of rain. 
•       You might feel awkward taking photos before your senior year, but it doesn’t need to be. Plus, you can always choose to do another session later in the year. 

Summer

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

      Pros

•       You get to enjoy more hours of sunshine and the warmth that the summer months offer. 
•       There’s no need to dress in any heavy layers. 
•       Your schedule will be far more flexible during the summer months. 
•       There’s the option of getting a tan before your session so that you have a natural glow. 
•       There is generally an abundance of wildflowers, which look great in photos. 

      Cons

•       The heat can be uncomfortable.
•       There are far more bugs to deal with during summer. 
•       Since everyone is spending more time outside, you may struggle to find a public location that isn’t overly busy.

Fall

Fall is also a popular season for many seniors across the U.S. and for good reason.

      Pros

•       Fall colors make for some of the most beautiful backdrops.  
•       The hot summer temperatures have subsided, making it more comfortable to be outside.
•       Taking your photos during golden hour in fall will give them a beautiful soft glow. 

      Cons

•       Because of the eye-catching scenes that fall creates, public spaces might be busier than usual. 
•       The sun sets earlier in the fall and with a busier school schedule, it might be difficult to work in a photo session without missing some school. 
•       Since this is a popular time for senior photos, you may struggle to find a slot with your photographer. 

Winter

This is not my favorite time for senior pictures as I do all of my photo sessions outside. 

      Pros

•       Public spaces are a lot quieter, which means you have more locations to choose from.
•       You have the option to take photos in the snow (if you live the right regions for this option). 

      Cons

•       The temperatures can make it too cold to use an outdoor location.
•       Backgrounds are bleaker looking as all of the leaves are gone and skies typically are very gray. 
•       The sun sets early, which can affect your photos due to lack of good light. 
•       You may miss your yearbook deadline. 

Now that you have a better idea of what each season entails, you can continue planning your senior session at a time of the year that works for you.