When Should You Schedule Senior Pictures for Class of 2027? | Spokane Senior Photographer
One of the most common questions I get from parents and seniors is, "When should I schedule my senior pictures?" If you're part of the Class of 2027, the short answer is: earlier than you think!
The best time to schedule your senior photos depends on the look you're going for, your school's yearbook deadlines, and your availability during your senior year. As a Spokane senior photographer, I'm sharing everything you need to know to help you choose the perfect time for your session.
The Best Time for Senior Pictures
For most seniors, the ideal time for senior pictures is the summer before senior year through early fall of senior year.
This means scheduling your session between June and October 2026 if you're graduating in 2027.
Why? Because:
The weather is usually beautiful.
Spokane offers gorgeous summer and fall scenery.
You'll have your images back well before yearbook deadlines.
You'll be able to use your photos for announcements, graduation invitations, and social media throughout your senior year.
Summer Senior Pictures
Summer is one of the most popular times for senior photos, and for good reason.
Pros of Summer Sessions
Green landscapes and wildflowers
Beautiful golden hour sunsets
More flexibility before school and activities begin
Plenty of time before yearbook deadlines
Warm weather and lightweight outfit options
Popular summer locations in Spokane include Manito Park, Mt. Spokane, Liberty Lake, and Riverfront Park.
If you're hoping for a summer session, I recommend booking several months in advance since these dates fill quickly.
Fall Senior Pictures
Fall is another favorite season for senior portraits.
Pros of Fall Sessions
Stunning fall colors
Cooler temperatures
Cozy outfit options like sweaters, boots, and layers
Unique seasonal backgrounds
Peak fall color in Spokane typically happens from late September through October, making it a beautiful time for senior photos.
Keep in mind that yearbook deadlines may be approaching, so it's important to schedule early enough to allow time for editing and selecting your yearbook image.
What About Spring of Senior Year?
While spring sessions can still be beautiful, I generally recommend scheduling earlier if possible.
By spring:
Many yearbook deadlines have already passed.
Graduation announcements may need to be ordered.
Schedules become busy with sports, prom, graduation events, and senior activities.
However, spring can be perfect for cap and gown sessions, future plans sessions, or an additional mini session to celebrate the end of senior year. Or plan for the Spring before your senior year.
Don't Wait Until the Last Minute
Every year, I receive messages from seniors who realize their yearbook deadline is only a few weeks away.
Unfortunately, prime dates may already be booked.
Booking early gives you:
More flexibility with dates
More location options
Better sunset times
Less stress during your senior year
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
I recommend booking your senior session 2-4 months before you'd like to be photographed.
For summer and fall dates, many seniors reserve their sessions in the spring before senior year.
If you already know you want senior pictures next summer or fall, now is the perfect time to start planning.
Let's Celebrate Your Senior Year
Your senior year is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, and your photos should reflect your personality, interests, and excitement for the future.
Whether you want mountain views, downtown vibes, wildflower fields, or a location that represents who you are, we'll create a session that feels authentic and fun.
If you're part of the Class of 2027 and ready to start planning your senior session, I'd love to help you create images you'll treasure long after graduation.
Click the link below to start planning your dream senior session!
