Summer might be for sunshine and sleeping in, but it’s also the perfect time to check “senior photos” off your to-do list. If you’re the parent of a soon-to-be senior – or a member of the Class of 2026 yourself – here’s why you should book your Michigan fall senior session before the school year starts.

1. Prime Dates Fill Up Fast
Fall is one of the most popular times in Michigan for portrait sessions (hello, golden leaves and dreamy light). But senior photographers book up quickly. Scheduling in the summer ensures you get the best date and your first pick of locations. Many families wait until school is back in session before thinking about photos, and by then, the most desirable dates are already long gone. Summer is your chance to beat the rush.

2. Planning Ahead Reduces Stress
Fall brings football games, homecoming dances, college visits, senior portraits for the yearbook, and all the exciting (but chaotic) senior year events. When you book early, you eliminate last-minute stress and give yourself time to enjoy the process. Plus, with everything else going on, the last thing you want is to scramble for a session date when your calendar is already bursting.

3. Photos You Can Enjoy All Year Long
The sooner you take your senior photos, the sooner you can use them (hello #seniorsunday posts!). Need a killer headshot for college applications? Want a standout image for your senior ad in the yearbook? Hoping to use your photos for social posts, grad announcements, or party decor? Booking your session early means you’ll have those beautiful, professional images on hand exactly when you need them.

4. You Get the Best of Both Seasons
Summer and early fall are a beautiful combo in Michigan. You get that glowing light, soft green tones, and – depending on your session date – possibly even the start of fall color. We love helping seniors get the best of both worlds: summer sunshine with a touch of cozy autumn charm.

Whether you’re in Detroit, Ann Arbor, Royal Oak, or anywhere in Southeast Michigan, now is the perfect time to get ahead of the rush. At Smith & Co. Portraits, we make booking easy and sessions fun – so you can relax and focus on celebrating senior year.

📸 Ready to reserve your senior session? Reach out to us over HERE to start planning.