As a senior photographer in North Dakota, there are a few questions I’ve gotten religiously over the years. One of the most common is, “When should I schedule senior photos?” and I get it! As a mother, I know all too well the to-do list for senior year is a mile long. So allow me to answer that one here and now so you can plan accordingly!
This is more of a time range than a specific number, but in short: the sooner the better! I keep a running wait list for seniors beginning the year prior. For example, my waitlist for Class of 2026 is open now and I schedule senior sessions on a first-come, first-serve basis. I plan my availability around my own kids’ sports schedules, so senior sessions are very limited. I do try to accommodate my clients as much as possible, but I highly recommend getting on my calendar in advance. Once those spots are taken, that’s all, folks!
Here in Williston and surrounding areas, the deadline for yearbook photos is usually around the first part of December. Please understand that doesn’t mean you can wait until the first week of December! My turn-around time between when we shoot the photos together and when I deliver your edited gallery is around 5 weeks. This means that mid to late October is generally the latest you can schedule a senior session and still have photos in time for your high school’s yearbook deadline.
My travel senior sessions are handled a bit differently than my local North Dakota senior photos. Just like with any trip or vacation, there’s a pretty good amount of planning involved– especially since we’re coordinating your schedule with mine. Since there are extra steps and reservations needed for travel, I urge my travel photography clients to book six months in advance if possible. If I have availability and I’m able to squeeze it in with less notice, I’m happy to do so! However, I can’t always guarantee that I can make it happen on shorter notice, and who wants to miss out on awesome destination senior photos?!
I’m so glad you asked! You can get added to the waitlist by sending me a message here. Afterward, you’ll be added to my Senior VIP mailing list where you’ll receive all of my best tips for preparing for your senior session. Wardrobe tips, timelines, locations– you name it & I’ve got it covered. By the time your North Dakota senior session rolls around, you’ll be prepared well in advance. Say goodbye to last-minute stress & hello to the senior session of your dreams!
Hey, I’m Kellie, a lifestyle family & senior photographer serving Williston, ND and beyond! I provide my clients with authentic, heartfelt, photos that tell their stories through my lens. Senior year is such a special time. Are you envisioning photos that commemorate your accomplishments while incorporating tons of personality? Let’s make it happen! Take a look at my carefully created packages for seniors and let’s chat about how we can make your dream photos a reality. Want some inspiration in the meantime? Be sure to follow me on Pinterest or come say hi on IG, FB, and TikTok!
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