When Should I Book My Senior Photo Session in Des Moines, Iowa?
Senior year has a funny way of sneaking up on everyone.
One minute your student is finishing junior year. Next, you’re juggling college visits, football schedules, homecoming, and someone casually asking, “Have you done senior pictures yet?”
In the Des Moines metro, whether you’re in Johnston, Waukee, West Des Moines, or nearby, senior photo timing matters more than most families realize. Here’s the honest answer from someone who photographs seniors here in Central Iowa every year.
The Short Answer
For Des Moines families, the ideal time to book senior photos is:
January–April of junior year.
Most sessions are then scheduled for:
Summer before senior year (June–August)
Early fall of senior year (September–October)
By mid-summer, fall calendars begin to book out across the Des Moines area, especially for those warm September and early October evenings everyone loves.
Booking early simply gives you options.
Why Timing Matters in Central Iowa
Senior photography timelines in Iowa are a little different than warmer states.
We have:
A short and stunning fall color window
Weather that can shift quickly
Packed school calendars (Sports practices, band, choir, Friday night football)
Yearbook deadlines as early as October for some schools
That dreamy fall look with vibrant colors? It exists for about three weeks in a good year. And if you’re hoping for it, you don’t want to start searching for a local senior photographer in September. (ask me about my secret tip for getting beautiful fall colors in your photos)
You may still find someone.
But you will not find your first choice, and your dates will be limited.
Class of 2027: Here’s Your Timeline
If your student is graduating in 2027 and currently a junior, this is your perfect planning window.
Best time to inquire: Winter or spring of junior year
Best time to photograph: June–October 2026
Inquiring this spring allows you to:
Choose from the best summer and fall dates
Plan wardrobe and locations thoughtfully
Avoid competing with senior-year chaos
Senior year moves unbelievably quickly (take it from a mom who has lived through 2 of them). Booking during junior year keeps you and your senior calm.
Already a Senior? You’re Not Too Late.
Take a breath. You’re not late, you’re right on time.
In Des Moines, you can still book spring sessions before graduation. Printing times prior to grad parties may be tight. Obviously, that golden fall glow is no longer an option. But beautiful, meaningful images? Still absolutely possible.
Best Seasons for Senior Photos in Iowa
Every season here in central Iowa offers something different.
Summer
Think lush greens, flexible schedules, late golden evenings, and bright summer blooms.
Ideal for relaxed, outdoor sessions and fun summery outfits.
Fall
Think warm light, rich color, classic Midwest feel, and sweater weather vibes.
This is by far the most requested season.
Winter
Winter is best for studio portraits. Think editorial energy, clean, bold, modern.
It is also great for outdoor snow sessions if we are lucky. These take a little more flexibility in scheduling.
Spring
Think blossoms, soft light. These are great for capturing a final milestone before graduation, including spring sports and cap and gown images.
The best season depends on your senior’s personality and schedule, not just what’s trending.
How Far in Advance Should You Book Senior Pictures?
In the Des Moines area, most families book senior photos:
3–6 months in advance for general availability
6–9 months in advance if they want early fall dates
I photograph a limited number of seniors each month so every session can be personalized and unhurried. Once summer approaches, weekend spots naturally become more selective.
It’s less about competition, more about calendar math.
When Should You Reach Out?
If your student is a junior:
Now is the ideal time to inquire.
If your student is already a senior:
Reach out and ask about current availability. Senior photos aren’t just about getting an image for the yearbook. They’re about capturing who your student is right before they step into something new.
Senior portraits are one of the few moments during this year that allow everyone to pause. Planning ahead simply protects that pause.
And that season deserves intention.
Ready to See What’s Available?
If you’re looking for a Des Moines senior photographer and want to explore summer or fall availability, the next step is simple:
I’ll send current availability and we’ll see what season fits your senior best.
Calm. Clear. No pressure.