Senior year is such an exciting milestone—and planning your senior portraits is one of the first big moments that makes it all feel real. If you’re a parent or senior from Exeter, Portsmouth, Hampton NH, or Berwick Academy, one of the most common questions I hear is:
“When should we take senior photos?”
The short answer? It depends on your senior—but here’s how to choose the timing that works best.
The Most Popular Time for Senior Portraits on the Seacoast
For most families in the Seacoast area, the ideal time for high school senior portraits in Exeter, Portsmouth, Hampton NH, and Berwick Academy is the summer before senior year—especially July and August. June is my favorite time because it is before the hustle of sports and its not too hot!
Here’s why that timing works so well:
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Your senior is right on the edge of their final year
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There’s plenty of time for ordering prints, albums, and meeting yearbook deadlines
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The weather is warm and predictable
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Evening sessions give you that soft, golden light everyone loves
Because of this, summer dates tend to fill quickly—especially for beach sessions in Hampton or downtown shoots in Exeter and Portsmouth.
What If Summer Doesn’t Work? (Great Alternatives!)
The good news is that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to senior portraits. I photograph seniors from Exeter High School, Portsmouth High, Winnacunnet, and Berwick Academy, and each session is tailored to the individual.
Here are a few beautiful options:
Fall (September–October)
Perfect if you love that classic New England feel. The foliage around Exeter and nearby areas is incredible, and cozy outfits photograph beautifully.
Winter
Great for seniors who want something different—especially athletes or anyone who loves the snow. Think ski sessions, bold textures, and a totally unique look.
Spring (March–May)
A great option if you missed earlier timing. Soft light, fresh blooms, and a lighter color palette make for a beautiful, fresh feel right before graduation.
The Best Time of Day for Senior Photos
Lighting is everything when it comes to creating images that feel natural and flattering. For most of my senior portrait sessions in Exeter, Portsmouth, Hampton NH, and Berwick Academy families, I recommend scheduling during:
Golden Hour (the hour before sunset)
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Soft, even light
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Warm skin tones
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That dreamy, coastal New England glow
We can also customize your session based on your senior’s personality:
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Sunrise sessions at Hampton Beach or in the Lakes Region of NH
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Downtown Exeter or Portsmouth at sunset
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Studio sessions at the White Wave Studio for a clean, modern look
Creating a Senior Session That Feels Like You
The timing matters—but what matters more is creating an experience that reflects your senior’s personality. That’s why I take a full-service approach to every session—from planning and styling to designing artwork for your home.
If you want to learn more about what that experience looks like, you can explore The High School Senior Portrait Experience here.
When Should You Book?
Most families reach out 3–6 months in advance, especially for summer and fall sessions.
If you’re even thinking about senior portraits in Exeter, Portsmouth, Hampton NH, or for Berwick Academy, it’s a good idea to start the conversation early so we can plan something intentional and stress-free.
Ready to Start Planning?
This is such a special season—for both seniors and parents—and it deserves more than a quick photo session. If you’d like help planning your senior’s portraits, I’d love to chat and hear what you’re envisioning.
Book your FREE Discovery Call TODAY.
We’ll talk through timing, locations, and how to create a session that truly feels like your senior.
