When Is the Best Time Of Year to Take Senior Photos? | Simi Valley Senior Photographer
Hey seniors (and parents!)—if you’re searching for the best time to take senior photos in Simi Valley, you’re not alone! As a local senior photographer, I get asked this question all the time. The answer? It really depends on what you want out of your session. While there’s no “wrong” time, there are some awesome perks to planning ahead. Let’s break down the options so you can decide what works best for you and your senior year schedule.
Why Book Senior Photos Early (Yes, Even at the Start of the School Year!)
One of the biggest benefits of scheduling your senior photo session early—think late summer or early fall—is that you’ll have your images ready to use all year long. Whether it’s for social media, senior announcements, or graduation party invites, having professional photos on hand makes things so much easier.
Another big perk? If your parents want to create a special yearbook tribute page just for you, you’ll need photos ready to go. Most high schools in Simi Valley—like Simi High and Royal High—have deadlines in early January to submit those pages. The earlier you submit, the more affordable the page usually is, too. Waiting until the last minute can mean rushing and paying more.
Worried that you won’t have your cap and gown yet? No problem! I have both Simi High and Royal High graduation gowns available for you to borrow during your session, so we can still capture those classic graduation portraits.
One Downside to Shooting Early… But There’s a Fix!
The only small downside to scheduling your senior portraits early is that you may not have all your college gear, medals, cords, or graduation accessories yet. Those items can be really meaningful to include in your photos!
But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. If you’d like to show off your college decision, your cords, or any other hard-earned achievements, you can book a 30-minute mini add-on session just a few days before or after graduation. Bring your college shirt, your medals, and that official cap and gown—we’ll get a few quick but powerful shots to round out your senior photo collection. (Just be sure to ask about this add-on when you book—it's something I offer quietly and don’t advertise much!)
What About Taking Senior Photos in the Spring?
Some families prefer to wait until spring for their senior photography session—either because it feels closer to graduation or to capture how much their teen has grown. While I totally get the tradition, the truth is, by senior year there usually isn’t a huge change in appearance between fall and spring.
That said, spring in Simi Valley is absolutely gorgeous. March and April bring blooming flowers, lush hills, and the most beautiful golden light in the evenings. Honestly, this is one of my favorite times of the year to shoot! The only catch? Many families skip spring sessions due to packed schedules, unpredictable weather, or thinking it’s too late. But if you’re flexible and can carve out the time, a spring session can be stunning.
So… When Should You Book Your Senior Photos?
If you want your photos ready for yearbook pages, announcements, or social posts all year long—book your senior photos early. If you want wildflowers, soft light, and spring vibes—book in March or April. Want to do both? Let’s talk about booking your full session now and adding on a short cap-and-gown or college reveal shoot in May.
No matter when you book, your session will reflect who you are in this once-in-a-lifetime season. Whether you're wearing your letterman jacket, your college hoodie, or your cap and gown, I’ll help you tell your story.
Ready to book your senior photography session in Simi Valley? I’d love to work with you!
