Senior year goes fast. One minute you’re registering for classes, and the next you’re picking up your cap and gown. Senior portraits are one of the few things that slow that down — a moment to document exactly who you are right now, before everything changes.
I’ve been photographing Colorado seniors since 2006, and no two sessions look the same. That’s kind of the whole point. Whether you’re the type who wants golden mountain light or a gritty urban backdrop, dressed up or totally casual, I’m going to work with who you actually are — not some generic version of a senior portrait.
Here’s everything you need to know to make your senior portrait session easy, fun, and stress-free.
When to Book Your Senior Photos
This is the most important logistical decision you’ll make, and the answer is: earlier than you think.
Summer books fast — especially June, July, and August. Colorado’s long golden evenings are perfect for outdoor sessions, and pretty much every senior wants them. If you’re hoping for a summer session, reaching out in the spring gives you the best chance of getting your preferred date.
Not sure whether summer or fall is right for you? Here’s a deeper look at when to book senior photos in Colorado — including yearbook deadline tips.
A few timing notes:
For yearbook deadlines: Most Colorado schools need yearbook photos submitted in the fall. If your deadline is October or November, a summer session gives you time to receive your gallery, choose your favorites, and get them submitted without rushing.
For the best light: I almost always recommend evening sessions — within an hour of sunset. Colorado’s golden hour light is genuinely stunning and incredibly flattering. Early morning sunrise sessions are also available if you’re an early riser.
If you’ve already missed summer: Fall sessions are beautiful too. Colorado in September and October is spectacular — golden aspens, warm light, cooler temps that actually make being outside comfortable.
Image © Susannah Allen
What to Wear for Senior Photos
This is the section I wish more seniors read before showing up. What you wear has a bigger impact on your photos than almost anything else — and it’s completely in your control.
Bring two outfits.
This is my standard recommendation. One dressier look and one more casual one. It gives your gallery variety and lets you show different sides of your personality. Some seniors only bring one outfit and that’s completely fine — but two gives you more to work with. (You can also text me before your session for feedback about clothing options.)
Dressier outfit ideas:
- A flowy dress or skirt for a soft, feminine look
- A blazer or button-down for a polished, put-together feel
- A fitted top with great jeans and boots — classic Colorado
- Anything that makes you feel genuinely confident
Casual outfit ideas:
- Your favorite jeans and a top that actually fits well (not baggy)
- A hoodie or flannel if that’s authentically you
- Something that represents a hobby or interest — an athletic look, a band tee, whatever tells your story
Colors that photograph well:
Muted, earthy tones work beautifully in Colorado’s outdoor settings — sage, rust, cream, navy, burgundy. Avoid very bright neons or busy patterns, which can pull attention away from your face.
What to avoid:
- Logos or text on clothing (they date quickly and distract)
- Anything so tight or uncomfortable you’ll be tugging at it
- Brand new shoes that haven’t been broken in
A note on hair:
Wearing your hair down tends to look great outdoors — Colorado breeze, golden light, movement in your hair. That said, do what feels like you. If you always wear your hair up, wear it up. Authenticity reads better than trying to look like someone else.
One very specific tip:
If you’re wearing your hair down and it’s breezy (very common in Colorado), bring a hair tie — but keep it in your bag, not on your wrist. Trust me on this one.
Consider getting a blowout or simple makeup done beforehand.
It’s not required at all, but some seniors love having that extra confidence boost going into their session.
Image © Susannah Allen
Choosing Your Senior Photo Location
Location sets the entire mood of your session, so it’s worth thinking about.
The best starting point: what kind of environment feels most like you? Mountains, open fields, urban streets, water, old buildings, forests — Colorado has all of it within reach. I photograph seniors all over the Front Range, including Longmont, Boulder, Berthoud, Erie, Louisville, and beyond.
A few things that help narrow it down:
If you love the outdoors: Colorado’s natural settings are hard to beat. Rocky backdrops, golden fields, trails — these tend to produce timeless images that look great for years.
If you want something more urban: Boulder and parts of Longmont have great architectural and street elements that give a completely different feel.
If you have a meaningful spot: A place you’ve spent time, a trail you love, a spot near your home — these personal locations often make for the most memorable sessions.
We can also hit two spots that are close to each other if we have enough daylight, which is a great way to get variety in your gallery.
Summer dates book fast. Reach out now to check availability.
Image © Susannah Allen
What Actually Happens During Your Session
Sessions run about an hour, sometimes a little more. There’s no rigid schedule — I read your energy and let the session breathe.
I’ll guide you through poses and positions that feel natural, not stiff. I usually tell a few jokes. They’re not great jokes. But they tend to get a genuine laugh, which is exactly what I’m going for.
A few practical things to know:
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- Eat before your session, especially for evening shoots. Smiling on an empty stomach is nobody’s best look.
- Bring water. Smiling a lot makes your mouth dry faster than you’d expect.
- Bring lip gloss or lipstick if you wear it — touch-ups mid-session are totally normal.
Image © Susannah Allen
A Note on Senior Boys
I want to address this directly because I hear it a lot: “He doesn’t want to do this.”
I get it. Senior portraits can feel awkward, especially for guys who aren’t into posing or being photographed. I’ve worked with plenty of senior boys who showed up reluctant and left with a gallery they were genuinely proud of.
The key is leaning into what makes them comfortable. Bring the truck, the guitar, the lacrosse stick, the fishing gear. Pick a location that feels like them. The more the session reflects who they actually are, the easier it is — and the better the photos.
Image © Susannah Allen
Should Parents Come?
Totally up to you. Many parents come along and hang out nearby — sometimes in the car, sometimes a little ways off. They can be genuinely helpful for carrying water, spare clothes, or noticing a collar that’s gone sideways (something I occasionally miss when I’m focused on light and posing). (And if they are there, I may put them to use to hold lights for me!)
Other seniors come solo and that’s great too. Whatever makes you most comfortable.
Image © Susannah Allen
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Senior Photos
How much do senior photos cost? Senior sessions start at $600 and include 15 edited digital files. Full details are on my senior portrait page.
Do you do yearbook photos? Yes — if you send me your school’s yearbook specs before the session, I’ll make sure we capture what they need. I can also prep and size the files for submission.
How many photos will I receive? Sessions include 15 edited digital files. Additional images are available.
How long until I get my photos? You’ll receive your edited gallery within two to three weeks of your session.
Can I bring a pet or a prop? Absolutely. Pets, instruments, sports gear, cars — bring whatever tells your story.
Do you travel outside of Longmont? Yes. I serve seniors across the Front Range including Longmont, Boulder, Erie, Berthoud, Louisville, Niwot, Broomfield, Fort Collins, and beyond.
What if I need financial assistance? If senior portraits are something you want but the cost is a barrier, reach out and tell me a little about your situation. If I can find a way to help, I will.
How do I book? Fill out my contact form here. Include some dates and times that work for you — I have strong weekday availability in addition to weekends.
Ready to Book Your Senior Session?
Summer dates fill fast, and if you have a fall yearbook deadline, now is the time to get on the calendar.
View my senior portrait portfolio →
Contact me to reserve your date →
You’ve worked hard to get here. Let’s make sure you have photos that show it.
Image © Susannah Allen
