When to Schedule Your Senior Photoshoot- Dallas 2026

Written By Parker Wehking

Senior year is coming up fast, and if you’re part of the Class of 2026, it’s officially time to start thinking about your senior photos! I know, it feels like just yesterday you were starting high school, but trust me, senior year flies by in the blink of an eye. The last thing you want is to be scrambling for a last-minute session when the weather’s turned, yearbook deadlines are creeping up, and your calendar is already packed with everything else senior year throws at you.

So let’s talk senior session planning and when to actually book your shoot. This quick guide will help you get those dream photos and avoid the stress.

First Things First: Why Book Early?

I always tell my seniors (and their parents!): Don’t wait until the last minute to book your session. Here’s why:

  • Prime dates go FAST: Especially in late summer and fall, when the golden light is chef’s kiss and everyone wants those pretty outdoor locations.

  • Turnaround time matters:  If your school has a specific deadline for yearbook submissions, you’ll need to plan backward to make sure we have time for editing and delivering your gallery.

  • You’ll thank yourself later: Senior year is busy enough. Getting your session out of the way early means one less thing to stress about when classes, sports, and college apps hit full swing.

The Best Time to Book Class of 2026 Portraits

Here’s the general timeline I recommend for the Class of 2026:

  • Spring & Early Summer (March–June):
    This is the sweet spot if you want to get your session done before school starts. Wildflowers, green grass, glowing sunshine, yes, please. Plus, you’ll beat the heat of late summer and have tons of flexibility for locations and outfits.

  • Late Summer & Early Fall (July–October):
    This is by far my most popular time for senior sessions. The lighting is gorgeous, the golden hour is unbeatable, and the vibes are immaculate. But keep in mind, these dates book out months in advance, so reach out as early as you can!

  • Late Fall & Winter (November–January):
    These months are trickier. The weather gets unpredictable, the light fades fast, and we’re pushing right up against most schools’ senior photo deadlines. If you’re booking this late, you’ll need to be extra flexible, and understand we’re working on a tighter turnaround.

Don’t Forget the Yearbook Deadline

Every school has its own rules and dates, but most yearbook photo deadlines fall sometime between October and early December. That means you’ll want your session scheduled and shot at least 4–6 weeks beforehand to allow time for editing, selection, and any additional retouching if needed. If you’re not sure when your school’s deadline is, now’s the time to check!

When Should You Reach Out?

Honestly? Now. Whether you’re ready to book today or just want to get on my radar, reaching out early gives us the best chance to find the perfect date for your vision. You don’t need to have everything figured out, I'm here to help with outfit inspo, location ideas, and any questions you have.

Ready to Plan the Senior Session of Your Dreams?

Let’s make it happen! My calendar is officially open for Class of 2026 senior sessions, and I would love to work with you. This is your year, let’s capture it in a way that feels exactly like you.

Parker Wehking