Senior year is full of exciting milestones, and your senior photo session is one of the biggest! While it may seem like something you can plan at the last minute, a little preparation goes a long way. From finding the right photographer to choosing outfits and scheduling hair appointments, here's a simple timeline to help make the process fun, stress-free, and uniquely you.
The Timeline
Senior portraits are not what they were 30 years ago, they are kind of a big deal. Here is a little timeline to help you make sure you are ready for the shoot!
4-6 Months DREAM |
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3-4 Months BOOK |
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2 Months PLAN |
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3-4 Weeks FINALIZE |
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1 Week GET READY |
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The Day Before PACK |
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Session Day RELAX |
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Best Time To Do Your Senior Portraits
There isn't a single "perfect" time to take senior portraits—it really depends on the look you're hoping to achieve and when you'll need your photos. Most seniors schedule their session during the summer before senior year or the fall of their senior year, but every season has something special to offer.
🌸 Spring (Junior Year)
Spring is a wonderful time to start planning. Flowers are blooming, the weather is comfortable, and you'll have plenty of time to book your favorite photographer before calendars begin filling up. If you're hoping for a spring wildflower look, this can also be a beautiful time for your session.
☀️ Summer (Before Senior Year)
Summer is one of the most popular times for senior portraits. School is out, schedules are more flexible, and you'll have your images ready well before yearbook deadlines, graduation announcements, and college applications. Just keep in mind that summer dates tend to book quickly.
🍂 Fall (Senior Year)
Fall is another favorite, especially here in the Savannah area where the weather becomes a little more comfortable. Golden evening light, changing foliage, and cooler temperatures create beautiful portraits. If you're planning to use your photos for graduation announcements or holiday gifts, fall is an ideal time.
❄️ Winter & Early Spring (Senior Year)
It's never too late! Winter offers softer light, fewer crowds, and a unique look. If your yearbook deadline has already passed, you'll still have plenty of opportunities to use your portraits for graduation invitations, announcements, social media, and keepsakes.
Here is a table to help you decide based on your ultimate goal!
Goal | Recommended Session Time |
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Yearbook Photo | June-September |
Holiday Cards | September-October |
Graduation Announcements | October-February |
Spring Flowers | March-April |
Beach Photos | May-September |
Fall Colors | October-November |
Yearbook deadlines vary by high school. Some schools require portraits as early as late summer or early fall, while others allow submissions later in the year. Make sure to find out junior year when your photo submissions are due.
Best Locations In And Around Savannah For Senior Portraits
One of the most exciting parts of planning your senior session is choosing the perfect location. Whether you're drawn to historic architecture, coastal beaches, moss-covered oaks, or peaceful marsh views, the Savannah area offers a backdrop for every personality and style.
If you love | Location |
🌊 Beach Sunsets | |
🌳 Spanish moss & Southern Charm | |
🏛 Historic architecture | |
🌾 Marsh views and Lowcountry scenery | |
🌸 Gardens & flowers | Forsyth Park & Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens |
🌇 A mix of everything | Downtown Savannah + Forsyth Park |
🌳 Forsyth Park
Savannah's most iconic location offers incredible variety in one place—from the famous fountain and majestic live oaks to colorful gardens and charming walkways. It's perfect if you're looking for timeless Southern portraits with classic Savannah character.
Classic • Elegant • Southern
🏛 Historic Downtown Savannah
Cobblestone streets, colorful doors, wrought-iron balconies, and historic architecture create endless variety. Every block offers a new backdrop and a different vibe.
Urban • Timeless • Stylish
🌊 Tybee Island
If you're dreaming of a relaxed coastal session, Tybee delivers sandy beaches, sea oats, boardwalks, the historic lighthouse, and breathtaking sunsets. Every session feels fun, natural, and uniquely coastal.
Relaxed • Coastal • Sunset
🌿 Wormsloe Historic Site
The famous Avenue of Oaks is one of Georgia's most recognizable backdrops. A permit and entrance fee are required, but the scenery is unforgettable and well worth it for seniors wanting a truly Southern look.
Nature • Spanish Moss • Dramatic
🌾 Isle of Hope Historic District
One of my favorite hidden gems. Marsh views, quiet streets, charming docks, and beautiful live oaks create a peaceful Lowcountry setting, especially during golden hour.
Marsh • Sunset • Coastal
🌸 Coastal Georgia Botanical Gardens
Beautiful gardens, flowers, bamboo, and winding pathways make this a wonderful option for seniors who love nature and color. It's a versatile location with something blooming throughout much of the year.
Flowers • Gardens • Nature
📍 Choose a Location That Tells Your Story
The best location is one that reflects you. Maybe it's your favorite beach, the soccer field where you've spent countless afternoons, your horse barn, downtown Savannah, or the marsh where you watch the sunset. Your senior session should celebrate who you are and this exciting chapter of your life.
Not sure where to start? I’m always happy to recommend locations based on your personality, hobbies, and style. And if you've been saving ideas on Pinterest or Instagram, send them my way! They’re a great way for me to understand your vision and help create a session that's uniquely yours.
Senior Portrait Outfit Guide
Your outfits should reflect your personality, not just the latest trend. The goal is to look back years from now and still love your photos.
👗 Bring Multiple Outfits
I recommend bringing 2–4 outfits so your gallery has plenty of variety.
Ideas include:
- Casual everyday look
- Dressy outfit
- School colors or jersey
- Hobby or sport uniform
- College sweatshirt (if you've committed!)
💡 Pro Tip: If you have a favorite outfit that always gets compliments, bring it! I also like to tell my clients to bring one outfit that's completely "you." Whether it's cowboy boots, Converse, a vintage band tee, a favorite dress, or your sports jersey, those personal touches often become some of the most meaningful photos in your gallery.
🎨 Choose Colors That Complement You
Soft neutrals, earth tones, blues, greens, and rich jewel tones tend to photograph beautifully.
Don't be afraid of color—but try to avoid extremely bright neon shades that can distract from your face.
📸 Remember: Your phone camera sees trends. Professional portraits become family heirlooms.
✨ Keep Patterns Simple
Small, subtle patterns are great.
Large logos, busy prints, and graphics can pull attention away from you.
Remember...
You are the focus—not your shirt.
👟 Shoes Matter
People often forget about shoes!
If we'll be walking around downtown or through parks, bring comfortable shoes for getting between locations and change into your favorite pair when it's time to photograph.
If you're wearing new shoes, wear them around the house a few times first. You'll be much more comfortable walking between locations.
💍 Don't Forget the Details
Think about:
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Jewelry
- Choose jewelry that complements your outfit without overpowering it. A few favorite pieces often photograph better than lots of bold accessories. If you wear a smartwatch every day, decide whether you want it in your portraits—or leave it at home for a more timeless look.
- If you wear a smartwatch every day, decide whether you want it in your portraits—or leave it at home for a more timeless look.
- Hats
- Think wide-brimmed beach hat or a cap with your new school on it!
- Jackets
- Glasses
- If you wear glasses every day, wear them! They’re part of who you are. Just be sure they're clean before your session. If you have transition lenses, keep in mind they may darken outdoors, so you may want to bring a non-transition pair if you have one.
- Letterman jacket
- Cap & gown
- Flowers
- Sports equipment
- Musical instruments
- Your dog 🐶
These personal touches help tell your story.
👚 Try Everything On
Don't wait until the morning of your session.
Try on every outfit—including shoes and accessories—to make sure everything fits comfortably and makes you feel confident.
Wrinkles Show Up! Hang your outfits as soon as you arrive and transport them on hangers if possible. Wrinkles are much more noticeable in professional photos than most people realize.
⭐ Most Important
Wear something that feels like YOU.
Trends come and go, but confidence never goes out of style.
✅ Outfit Checklist
☐ 2–4 outfits (if you’ve chosen somewhere you can change)
☐ Shoes
☐ Accessories
☐ Jewelry
☐ Hairbrush
☐ Touch-up makeup
☐ Water
☐ Props
☐ Comfortable walking shoes
You don't need to buy an entirely new wardrobe for your senior session. Some of the best portraits come from outfits you already love and feel confident wearing. Choose clothing that reflects your personality rather than chasing every trend—you'll be much happier with your photos years from now.Hair, Skin, & Makeup
You don't need a complete makeover for your senior portraits—just a little preparation can help you feel confident in front of the camera. The goal is to still look like you, just polished and photo-ready.
💇 Schedule Haircuts Wisely
If you're planning a haircut or color, I recommend scheduling it 1–2 weeks before your session. This gives your hair time to settle while still looking fresh. Avoid trying a dramatic new hairstyle or color right before your portraits.
💋 Keep Makeup Natural
Professional makeup is always a wonderful option, but it's certainly not required. If you'll be doing your own makeup, consider applying it just slightly more than your everyday look since cameras can soften colors. Focus on enhancing your natural features rather than completely changing your appearance.
💅 Don't Forget the Details
Your hands often make an appearance in photos, so clean, well-groomed nails can make a big difference. If you enjoy having your nails done, schedule your manicure a day or two before your session. Neutral shades, soft pinks, French manicures, or a favorite color all photograph beautifully.
🌬️ Plan for the Weather
Savannah's heat, humidity, and coastal breeze can all play a role in how your hair behaves. If your hair doesn't hold curls well or tends to frizz, consider bringing a few bobby pins, a small brush, hairspray, or your favorite styling product for quick touch-ups. Have a second option, this may mean an updo or a hat.
😊 Confidence Is the Best Look
The best photos happen when you feel comfortable and confident. Whether you choose a professional stylist or do your own hair and makeup, the most important thing is that you still feel like yourself.
☀️ Avoid Tan Lines
If you're spending time at the pool or beach before your session, be mindful of swimsuit tan lines. They can be difficult to edit and may limit your outfit choices.
💡 Pro Tip
Avoid trying new skincare products, spray tans, or cosmetic treatments the week before your session. Stick with your normal routine so there are no unexpected breakouts, irritation, or skin reactions before picture day.
What To Bring To Your Senior Session
A little preparation goes a long way! Bringing a few essentials will help your session run smoothly and give us plenty of options as we move between locations.
👝 A Tote Bag or Garment Bag
Bring a bag large enough to carry your essentials, or a garment bag to keep outfits clean and wrinkle-free. It's much easier to keep everything organized in one place as we move from one location to the next. If you choose a beach shoot, you risk getting sand in and on everything so a bag will help protect your belongings….like your phone charging port.
👕 Outfit Changes
If you're bringing multiple outfits, keep them on hangers if possible. Don't forget the shoes, jewelry, belts, jackets, or any accessories that go with each look.
🎓 Props That Tell Your Story
Senior portraits are about celebrating you! Consider bringing a few meaningful items that reflect your interests and accomplishments, such as:
- Sports equipment or uniform
- Musical instrument
- Letterman jacket
- Cap and gown
- College sweatshirt
- Books or hobbies
- Your first car or truck
- Your dog (if the location allows!)
☂️ Umbrella
Weather in coastal Georgia can change quickly. A small umbrella is always a smart idea in case of a passing shower. A clear or neutral-colored umbrella can even become a beautiful prop if the weather doesn't cooperate.
💄 Touch-Up Kit
A small pouch with a hairbrush, comb, lip balm, powder, hairspray, bobby pins, or a few makeup essentials can be incredibly helpful for quick touch-ups throughout the session.
📱 Leave Bulky Items Behind
Phones, wallets, keys, and bulky keychains can create noticeable bulges in pockets, wrinkles, and distract from clean lines in your clothing. Keep them in your bag or with a parent until you need them. You'll look—and feel—more relaxed without worrying about what's in your pockets.
💧 Water
Especially during Savannah's warmer months, bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. A quick drink between locations can help you stay comfortable and energized throughout your session.
Pack everything the night before! Check that every outfit fits, accessories are together, and props are loaded in the car. A little preparation means you'll arrive relaxed and ready to enjoy your session.
What Parents Should Know
Senior portraits are about so much more than taking beautiful pictures—they're about celebrating one of life's biggest milestones. Here are a few ways you can help make the experience fun and stress-free for your senior.
Let Them Have a Say
Your senior's photos should reflect their personality, interests, and style. Encourage them to be involved in choosing locations, outfits, and props so their portraits feel authentic and uniquely them.
Trust the Process
It's completely normal for seniors to feel a little awkward at first. Most people aren't used to being in front of a professional camera! Don't worry—I guide every pose and expression so your senior never has to wonder what to do.
Encourage, Don't Critique
The session should be a confidence-building experience. Save the outfit critiques or "fix your smile" comments for another day. A relaxed, supported senior almost always photographs better than one who feels self-conscious.
Bring the Essentials
Water, comfortable walking shoes, a touch-up kit, and any outfit changes or props will help the session run smoothly. If you're helping carry everything, you'll be everyone's favorite assistant!
Enjoy the Moment
Senior year goes by faster than anyone expects. Take a few moments to watch your child laugh, celebrate, and enjoy this exciting season of life. Before you know it, they'll be off to college, starting a career, or chasing their next adventure.
💛 A Little Note to Parents
These portraits aren't just for graduation announcements—they're photographs you'll look back on for years to come. Let's create images that capture who your senior is right now, while making memories you'll both treasure long after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I book my senior photo session?
I recommend booking your session 3–6 months in advance, especially if you're hoping for a fall date or need your images before a yearbook deadline. The most popular weekends fill up quickly.
How long does a senior portrait session last?
My standard senior portrait session lasts up to 75 minutes and includes 1 location and 1–2 outfits. This gives us plenty of time to capture a wide variety of images while keeping the experience relaxed and enjoyable.
If you'd like to incorporate additional outfits, multiple locations, or more time for creative portraits, many seniors choose to upgrade to an extended session. We'll customize the experience to fit your vision and create a gallery that's uniquely you.
How many outfits should I bring?
It is up to you! Most seniors do 1-2 outfits, but this is your moment. A mix of casual, dressy, and something that reflects your personality creates a well-rounded gallery.
Can I bring my parents, siblings, or friends?
Absolutely! Parents are always welcome. If a friend helps you feel more relaxed, they're welcome to come too. Just remember the session is about celebrating you, so it's best to keep the group small and free of distractions.
Can I include my pet?
Of course! Pets can make your session even more personal. Just let me know ahead of time so we can choose a pet-friendly location. I also recommend bringing another person who can hold your pet when they're not in the photos.
What happens if it rains?
Weather is part of life in coastal Georgia! If heavy rain or severe weather is expected, we'll simply reschedule for another day. If it's just a brief passing shower, we may wait it out—or even use it creatively with a clear umbrella!
What if I don't know how to pose?
You're not alone! Almost every senior tells me this before their session. You don't need any modeling experience. I'll guide you every step of the way with natural posing and prompts so you can relax, have fun, and look like yourself. If you have been looking at inspo pictures, bring them with you or send them to me ahead of time. I'd love for you to be able to create the images you’re really hoping for!
Can I choose more than one location?
Yes! Depending on your session, we can often include multiple nearby locations to add variety to your gallery. We'll talk through the possibilities while planning your session.
Do you help choose locations and outfits?
Absolutely. If you're not sure where to start, I'm happy to recommend locations, outfit ideas, and even help coordinate colors based on your vision and personality.
When will I receive my photos?
I'll provide your gallery as quickly as possible after your session. Generally I will have your photos to you within 2 weeks. If you have an important deadline—such as a yearbook submission or graduation announcement—just let me know during booking so we can plan accordingly.
What if I'm awkward in front of the camera?
Honestly? That's how almost everyone feels! You don't need to know how to pose or worry about what to do with your hands—that's my job. I'll guide you through the entire session with easy prompts and natural posing so your photos feel relaxed, genuine, and most importantly, like you.
🎓 To the Seniors...
This session isn't about being perfect. It's about celebrating who you are right now - your personality, your accomplishments, and this exciting chapter of your life. Don't worry if you've never had professional photos taken before. I'll guide you every step of the way, and by the end of the session, I think you'll be surprised by how much fun you had.
Ready to Plan Your Senior Session?
Senior year is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, and I'd love to help you capture it. Whether you're envisioning the beach at Tybee Island, the charm of historic Savannah, or somewhere that's uniquely you, let's create senior portraits you'll love for years to come.
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