So their junior year is almost finished... Why choose summer for senior photos?

Momma, take a deep breath—because I know you’ve got a million things running through your mind right now. Your baby is almost a senior. How did we get here so fast?! Between the whirlwind of junior year wrapping up and the reality of senior year knocking on your door, one of the biggest things on your to-do list is scheduling those all-important senior photos. And trust me when I say—summer is the perfect time to do it! I get it—there are so many unknowns. When is the best time? What if they don’t know what to wear? How do we even start? Momma, I’ve got you covered. Let’s break it down, so you feel confident and excited about getting your senior’s photos scheduled this summer!

1. Their Schedule is Wide Open (Well, Kind Of!)

Once senior year starts, it’s a whirlwind of sports, clubs, homework, college applications, and all the “lasts” you never even saw coming. Summer gives us the flexibility to schedule a session without squeezing it in between their already-packed senior schedule. No stress, no rushing—just a relaxed, fun session where we can take our time capturing exactly who they are.

2. The Best Weather & Natural Light

Michigan summers are absolutely gorgeous! We’re talking warm, golden evening light, lush greenery, and beautiful outdoor locations that won’t be covered in fall’s unpredictable rain or winter’s chill. Summer allows us to create those dreamy, sun-kissed portraits that you’ll treasure forever.

3. Time for Outfit Planning (Without the Stress!)

Worried about what they’ll wear? Summer gives you time to plan without the rush of back-to-school chaos. Whether they want casual, dressy, sporty, or all of the above, I help guide every step—including what photographs best and how to incorporate personal style into their session.

4. No Yearbook Deadlines Sneaking Up on You

Most high schools have yearbook submission deadlines early in the fall. If you wait until after summer, you might be scrambling to schedule, pick favorites, and get them turned in on time. A summer session gives you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the process without the last-minute stress.

5. A Confidence Boost for Senior Year

Senior photos are a huge moment of self-expression. When we do them in the summer, your senior walks into their final year with a boost of confidence, already seeing themselves as the amazing young adult they’ve become. They’ll start the year feeling good, and trust me—nothing beats the excitement of getting their photos back and sharing them with friends and family!

6. More Session Options & Locations

Summer allows for some of the best session locations! Whether it’s a beautiful field, a beach session, an urban downtown vibe, or even my outdoor studio at The Rustic Shutter, summer gives us the best backdrops without worrying about unpredictable weather.

7. An Unforgettable Experience—for Both of You

Senior photos aren’t just about pictures. They’re about celebrating everything your senior has accomplished and the incredible journey ahead. It’s a special moment for you too, Momma—watching your almost-grown baby shine. And I promise, I make the experience fun, comfortable, and stress-free!

Ready to Book? Let’s Make It Happen!

Now that you know why summer is the best time, let’s get your senior’s session on the calendar before dates fill up! I walk you through everything—from picking outfits to choosing locations—so you can relax and enjoy the experience. Let’s capture this incredible milestone together. Your senior’s story deserves to be told beautifully. ❤️

📅 Now Booking Summer Senior Sessions! Reach out today to reserve your date!

This blog is written by Jessica Butterworth, a senior and family photographer at Behind the Shutter LLC in Grand Blanc, Michigan. #BehindTheShutterLLC