When’s the Best Time of Year for Senior Photos in Austin, Texas?

When’s the Best Time of Year for Senior Photos in Austin, Texas?

Wondering what’s the best time of year to take your Senior Photos in Austin?

I’m here to help.

 Luckily, Senior Portraits can be taken year-round in Austin. Each season has its own characteristics to help you decide. Make sure you plan ahead to get the month you prefer.

three questions before booking senior photos in austin

Three questions to ask yourself first

1) Do I have a deadline to work around? Do you need to meet your Yearbook deadline or send Graduation announcements out before a certain date? 

2) What is my school schedule like? Do you have after school activities more in one part of the year than another? Will you have summer travel or a job to work around? 

3) Do you have a strong preference for one season over another? Details on each are below. 

     

    winter senior photo sessions

    Winter Senior Photo Sessions

    December – February

    Pros:

    • No crowds!
    • Great for urban locations
    • Can book over the school holidays
    • Cozy up in sweaters and cute winter outfits

    Cons:

    • Cold weather might mean more rescheduling
    • Sunset is earlier so most likely to have a weekend session unless you can leave school early

    spring senior photo sessions in austin, texas pros and cons

    Spring Senior Photo Sessions

    March – May

    Pros:

    • Best weather!
    • After Daylight Saving Time (mid-March), sunset is later so you can book on a school night or a weekend
    • Peak of wildflowers in Austin – bluebonnets to sunflowers
    • Nature settings are green and blooming
    • Can include your Future College Gear or Cap and Gown in some photos
    • Can take photos in your Junior Year to get ahead of deadlines

    Cons:

    • Peak Season – so popular locations may be crowded
    • End of year activities may crowd your calendar so you don’t have as much availability

    summer senior photo sessions

    Summer Senior Photo Sessions

    June – August

    Pros:

    • Don’t have to work around your school schedule
    • Can take photos in your Junior Year to get ahead of deadlines
    • Sunset is later so you have the most flexibility with starting times
    • Have all your photos ready before school deadlines

    Cons:

    • It’s HOT! – June is the best for temperatures. In July and August, I’ll only do early morning sessions. 

    fall senior photo sessions in austin, texas

    Fall Senior Photo Sessions

    September – November

    Pros:

    • Cooler temperatures and possible Fall colors
    • Photos done before Yearbook and Holiday deadlines (can add on a Family session at the end of your Senior Session)
    • Great for both nature and urban backdrops

    Cons:

    • Sunset is earlier, so you may be limited to weekend sessions
    • Peak season for family photos, so popular locations may be crowded and my schedule may be more booked

    Hopefully this season by season comparison helps you decide the best time for YOU to take Senior Photos in Austin. 

    To get more information or to get on my calendar, contact me below. 

    Interested in a Senior Photo Session?

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    Commons Ford Ranch – Senior Photo Session

    Commons Ford Ranch – Senior Photo Session

    Rustic barn, dry grass and a riverside dock – Class of 2024 Senior Photos

    For this Anderson High School Senior, she choose Commons Ford Ranch for her location.

    We started at the barn at the back of the property, explored the dry grass fields, went to the dock and ended with some dance moves on the trail. I was so amazed at her leap in jeans!

    leaping senior photo session

    Since it was January, there were only two other photo sessions we saw (it can be dozens in peak seasons like Spring and Fall).

    So we had lots of uncrowded backdrops and some epic skies.

    class of 2024 anderson high school senior photo session

    Tips for Senoir Photo Sessions at Commons Ford Ranch

    • It can get crowded with other photo sessions at peak times (weekend evenings in Spring and Fall) – so pick off times if possible.
    • It’s about a 10 minute walk from the parking lot to the Lakefront area – make sure to wear or bring comfortable shoes for walking between locations (this Senior was such a good sport about hiking around in her heels (!))
    • The Lakefront area can be a popular party area – keep an eye out for stray beer cans in your frame and you might have to wait your turn on the dock.
    • Lots of wildlife call this park their home. If you are going to be in the tall grass, wear cowboy boots or pants as one of your three outfit options.
    • Springtime wildflowers can be spectacular – peak blooms are usually in April and May. Winter has some lovely golden dry grass as well.
    • Enjoy the beautiful and peaceful scenery just 25 minutes away from downtown Austin.

    _______________________________________________________________________________________

    Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Senior photo session in Austin, Texas.

    1. What prompted you to have this photo session? We wanted to do a senior photo shoot with someone who could be spontaneous, yet capture Erika’s personality. We also were looking for someone with reasonable pricing who offered lots of digital images, not just a few. An hour of photographing should give you tons of photos to choose from and enjoy!
    2. What do you plan to do with your digital photos? We plan to plaster her dorm room with posters … just kidding! Erika plans to post the photos on social media. We will use the photos to create her graduation announcement, plus we will print photos to hang on our wall and for grandparents and cousins to have. Who knows—maybe just look at them online and smile!
    3. How did you choose your location for your session? Erika wanted to be outside for her photos, and Commons Ford Ranch was really pretty and had a variety of different locations/backgrounds that worked well with her outfit changes.
    4. What advice would you give to others planning a similar photo session? Definitely bring your personality and don’t be afraid to show it. Have some fun outfits that represent you. Watch for opportunities to be spontaneous, and definitely share those ideas with Stephanie as you’re out and about!
    5. Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography? From Erika: Stephanie was super nice and came really prepared with both extra items and ideas for locations. She also immediately made me feel comfortable and gave me plenty of poses, while still incorporating my ideas. From Gina: Ditto on immediately feeling comfortable! Stephanie is energetic and very creative, has great ideas for locations, makes fabulous suggestions, and is an all-around fabulous person! We couldn’t have chosen a better photographer and we look forward to doing our family photos with Stephanie very soon!

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    Austin Central Library & Seaholm – Senior Photography Session

    Austin Central Library & Seaholm – Senior Photography Session

    “Your high school memories are the background music that plays as you embark on new adventures.”

    Why are Senior Photos Important?

    Well, Senior Year is a time of hard work, celebration and the beginning of a major transition. Senior Photos are important because they capture and celebrate this milestone period. These pictures mark the end of one chapter and freeze that moment in time. You and your family will have these photos to look back on as your embark on your next stage of life. 

    class of 2024 high school senior photography session

    This Class of 2024 Senior wanted his photos taken at the Austin Central Library. If you’re interested in using this location, their guidelines are posted HERE.

    austin central library senior photo session

    For his Senior photo session, we explored around the library – especially the rooftop deck and then made our way around the Seaholm and Butterfly Bridge area outside.

    Please check out some of my favorite images below and contact me if you’d like to book your own Senior photo session.

    1. What prompted you to have this photo session? Senior year! We wanted to try to get some better pictures of Dylan that what the school captures. 
    His answer: “My mom said I had to.”

    2. How did you choose your location for your session? It’s an interesting part of town. As an aspiring architecture student, I wanted a more urban setting.

    3. What advice would you give to others planning a similar photo session? Try to relax and have fun. Easier said than done sometimes, but Dylan ended up having a good time and enjoyed his session.

    4. Anything else you’d like to add about working with Stephanie Friedman Photography? It was great to work with Stephanie – she worked hard to help Dylan relax and feel comfortable.  

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    How to Prepare for your Senior Photos

    How to Prepare for your Senior Photos

    Top 10 Tips on Prepping for your Senior Photos

    senior photo collage

    It’s your last year of High School and you want photos to help remember it by. How do you prepare from start to finish for your Senior Photo Session?

    1. Choose the Right Photographer: The first step in preparing for your senior photo session is to find the right photographer. Research local photographers in Austin who specialize in senior portraits and have a style that resonates with you. Look at their portfolios, read reviews, and see which style matches yours best.

    girl's high school senior photo session at commons ford ranch in austin, texas

    2. Plan Your Outfits: What your wear can greatly impact the feel of your photos. Select outfits that reflect your personality and style. Consider bringing a variety of clothing options, including formal wear, casual attire, and something that represents your hobbies or interests. Don’t forget to coordinate with the location and the season for a cohesive look.

    3. Choose your Locations: Austin has many great locations, from nature to urban settings. Discuss location options with your photographer, and think about the spots that resonate and have special meaning to you. Some locations may work better at certain times of day.

    common ford ranch graffiti building senior photo

    4. Grooming and Makeup: To look your best, plan ahead for grooming and makeup. Schedule a haircut or trim a few days before your session. If you’re not confident in your makeup skills, consider hiring a professional makeup artist to help you achieve a polished look that enhances your natural beauty.

    senior photo session in Austin, Texas

    5. Bring Props and Personal Items: Personalize your senior photo session by bringing props or personal items that represent your interests and achievements. This could be musical instruments, sports gear, or items from clubs and organizations you’re involved in. These props can add depth to your photos and tell a story about your high school experience. And if you have your cap & gown, you can wear those as well.

    girl in cap and gown for senior photo session

    6. Be Punctual: Arrive on time for your photo session to make the most of your scheduled time slot. Punctuality ensures that you have ample time for outfit changes and different locations if desired.

    seaholm high school senior photo session

     

    7. Relax and Be Yourself: On the day of your senior photo session, relax and be yourself. Trust your photographer’s guidance, and don’t be afraid to express your personality. Candid moments often make for some of the most memorable and authentic senior portraits.

    high school senior photo session downtown austin, texas

     

    8. Involve Your Loved Ones: Consider including family members or close friends in some of your photos to commemorate your journey together. This can add a sentimental touch to your senior portraits. This includes family pets. Just make sure to tell your photographer ahead of time who will be attending.

    senior high school photo session

     

    9. Have Fun: Most importantly, have fun during your senior photo session! It’s a celebration of your achievements and a chance to capture your unique personality. Embrace the experience, and your genuine happiness will shine through in your photos.

    high school senior photos on university of texas campus

     

    10. Enjoy your finished photos: A few weeks after your session you’ll receive your digital files and have the opportunity to purchase print products and share photos with your friends and family. Don’t forget to order graduation announcement cards!

    Lucy South Congress Senior Portrait Session

     

    Your Senior Photo Session is an opportunity to celebrate your High School journey against the backdrop of your hometown city.

    With the right preparation, you can create lasting memories and beautiful portraits that will be cherished for years to come. Enjoy this exciting moment in your life and make it a day to remember!

     

    how to prepare for high school senior photos

    Ready to book your Senior Photo Session?

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    Flower Child – Senior Photo Session

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    Sunflower Season at Commons Ford Ranch for this Spring Senior Photo Session

    Commons Ford Ranch is in bloom this time of year! From native wildflowers to tall sunflowers, scenic backdrops abound. Wandering among the blossoms, I got to document this McCallum High School Senior. 

    I loved that she brought outfits that showcased her personality and style. And she was a good sport when we had to reschedule the first session date because of rain. 

    Best of luck on your next adventure, Emmi!

    girl's high school senior photo session at commons ford ranch in austin, texas

    Please check out some of my favorite images from her Senior Portrait session below and contact me if you’d like to book your own photo session.

    1. What prompted you to have this photo session?

    I was looking for a photographer for my daughters senior photos and three of my friends recommended Stephanie. After seeing their photos and hearing about their experiences I was confident she’d be a great fit for us.

    2. How did you choose your location for your session?

    Choosing a location was challenging since there are so many great options in and around the Austin area. We knew we wanted more of a nature scene and after consulting with Stephanie she suggested Commons Ford. She even went out there on a scouting trip and sent us photos prior to going. She went above and beyond!

    3. What advice would you give to others planning a similar photo session?

    Honestly, just talk to Stephanie! My senior really didn’t know what she wanted, she just knew what she’d like to wear. Stephanie was great in talking through the location options, the types of photos and poses that what get her looking her best. 

    4. Anything else you’d like to add?

    Taking photos can be a challenge. Stephanie made it so comfortable and easy.  I appreciated her instructions and follow-up. All we had to do was show up! She had water, sun screen, bug spray, props…truly a pro and genuinely a warm and friendly person. She knows how to engage with your senior and make it fun. I couldn’t be happier with the session and the process. Especially seeing my senior smile when she saw how beautiful her photos turned out. If you are looking for a photographer, i highly recommend Stephanie! 

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    Sunflowers and Cap & Gown – Senior Photo Session

    Sunflowers and Cap & Gown – Senior Photo Session

    Exploring Commons Ford Ranch at this Spring Senior Photo Session

    Commons Ford Ranch makes a picturesque setting for a Senior Photo Session in Austin, Texas. Especially at the end of May, when the sunflowers are all blooming. Between the rustic barn, sprawling meadows and wildflowers, we had so many charming backdrops for capturing memorable moments.

    Congrats to this McCallum High School Senior on completing her last year of high school! And best of luck to her next adventure at college in Colorado 🙂

    senior photo session, girl has sunflower in her hair at Commons Ford Ranch in Austin, Texas

    Please check out some of my favorite images from her Senior Portrait session below and contact me if you’d like to book your own photo session.

    1. What prompted you to have this photo session?

    I saw some of my friends taking grad photos, and I thought it would be nice to have something that all of my family members can have.

    2. How did you choose your location for your session?

    I love the countryside, so it just made sense to have my photos in wildflowers.

    3. What advice would you give to others planning a similar photo session?

    Advice I would give to anyone taking photos in tall grass or wildflowers is to wear pants. If you’re taking photos in a dry season chiggers will bite you. You can also dust sulfur on your ankles to keep the chiggers away.

    4. Anything else you’d like to add?

    If you’re nervous about getting your photo taken, don’t be! 

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