As a Seattle-area senior photographer, I know how exciting and overwhelming it can be to plan your senior portraits. Garfield High School seniors have a lot on their plates between school, sports, clubs, and planning for the future, so figuring out when to take senior pictures can feel like one more thing on the to-do list. The good news? There’s no wrong time—just the best time for you! Whether you want golden summer light, colorful fall leaves, or a springtime vibe, here’s what to consider when choosing the perfect time for your senior photos.
Before picking a season, think about how you want to use your Garfield High School senior portraits. If you need photos for yearbook deadlines, schedule your session early enough to have edited images ready in time. Some schools set deadlines as early as October, while others allow submissions into winter. If you need photos for graduation announcements or gifts for family, plan ahead to have everything ready by spring. Seniors who want to showcase their portraits on social media throughout the year might choose multiple sessions to capture different looks and seasons.
Garfield High School seniors are involved in so many activities, which means schedules fill up fast. If you’re an athlete, your sports season might determine when you have time for photos. Fall sports like football and soccer can make August through November extra busy, while spring sports like track and baseball might mean late winter or early spring is hectic. If you’re involved in clubs, theater, or other extracurriculars, consider when you’ll have the most flexibility. Summer is often the easiest time to schedule senior photos since there’s no school to work around, but if you love the fall aesthetic, planning ahead is key.
Your outfits can help determine the best time of year for your Garfield High School session. If you love cozy layers, fall is perfect for bringing out your favorite sweaters, boots, and jackets. If you prefer flowy dresses or lighter outfits, summer and spring are ideal. Winter sessions can be fun with stylish coats and scarves, but keep in mind that Seattle’s rainy season can be unpredictable. No matter what season you choose, I always recommend bringing at least two or three outfits so you have variety in your final gallery.
The background of your senior photos sets the entire tone for your session, so think about what scenery speaks to you. If you love warm golden light, summer is your best bet. Alternatively, for vibrant fall colors, mid-October to early November is perfect for capturing Seattle’s gorgeous autumn foliage. If you love fresh greenery and flowers, springtime offers stunning natural backdrops. Even winter can be beautiful with moody skies, snow-dusted landscapes in the nearby mountains, or an urban backdrop that highlights the city’s energy.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to when you should take your Garfield High School senior photos—it all depends on what works best for you. Whether you want a summer sunset, crisp fall air, or springtime blooms, planning ahead ensures you get the perfect look and feel for your session.
As a Seattle senior photographer, I love helping Garfield High School seniors find the best time and location to make their session feel personal and stress-free. If you’re ready to book, let’s find the perfect season and create something amazing together!