Fall Senior Photos | Everything You Need to Know
Fall senior photos are popular — and for good reason! From the cozy outfit options to staying ahead of yearbook deadlines, September through November is a great time to document this chapter.
I, personally, have quite a few favorite things when it comes to fall senior photos. There are fewer crowds at the beach and the energy is high with football season in full swing with good vibes overall. Nature also really shows off during this time, with leaves turning golden and clear sunsets. And on the occasion we do get a bit of marine layer, it adds a beautiful, almost documentary-style element to the session.
When To Take Fall Senior Photos
September
Pros: You can still rock your summer tan and the weather is the warmest of most of the fall months.
Cons: It’s back to school! Your schedule may start to fill up with homework, classes, and Friday night lights.
October
Pros: This month comes with some of the best weather of the year — typical weather includes crisp sunsets, minimal wind, and nearly empty beaches (even at sunset).
Cons: College apps are due on 11/1 in most cases, which can be a top priority for some students.
November
Pros: The great weather in SoCal continues! Also, a bit of a relaxation in schedules with fall break + the holidays right around the corner.
Cons: This final month in the fall is close to yearbook deadlines and some days are starting to get colder than others. Daylight savings pushes sessions much earlier in the afternoon which could impact afternoon practices or class schedule.
Regardless of the month, the best times of day for fall senior photos are mornings between 8 and 10AM and sunset between 3 and 5PM or so. This time of year has much earlier sunsets than in spring, when the sun goes down around 7PM.
Something to keep in mind is that you may not know your college choice yet during the fall. So if that's important to feature in your session, you’ll likely want to wait until the late winter or spring.
Many students have rather busy fall schedules with sports and college applications. Sometimes though, a senior session can be just the thing to take a break and have some fun!
Where To Take Fall Senior Photos
Unlike the summertime, beaches are usually pretty empty during the fall months. This makes it that much easier to relax and go all out when taking your senior photos.
The trees and grass turn tall and golden in the autumn months, so photos among them are a great option.
Another fun spot at this time of year is your favorite cozy coffee shop or library (we can smell the pumpkin lattes from here)!
What To Wear for Fall Senior Photos
For girls, I’d recommend a longer dress, a shorter dress with boots, and a cozy long-sleeve sweater. This is also a great season to add in scarves, headbands, and hats.
For guys, a nice, white tee with your favorite jeans + sneakers, short sleeve button down, a suit, and a vest are all great options for outfits.
(Check out more senior photo outfit ideas here and lots of guy senior photo outfit ideas here!)
How To Book Fall Senior Photos
If you're not a senior yet, sign up for the waitlist now! Senior year will be here before you know it.
Here at JRP, we open our doors to the next graduating class in late spring/early summer. So, for example, if you're a student who is currently about to finish up the second semester of your junior year, doors will open to book the session date of your choice right before your junior year is over!
A majority of my clients meet with me during the summer right before their senior year, and in that meeting, we can choose a season that works best for you and your unique interests and needs, whether that’s winter, spring, summer, or fall.
