One of the most common questions I get from high school seniors and their families is: "When should we schedule senior photos?"
The most popular months for senior photography in Vermont are typically July through October, with fall being the busiest season by far. While Vermont's famous foliage often steals the spotlight, summer deserves a lot more credit than it gets. In fact, some of my favorite senior sessions happen long before the leaves begin to change.
If you're trying to decide between a summer or fall senior session, here's what you can expect throughout the season.
July: Peak Summer Greens
July is one of Vermont's most vibrant months. The landscape is filled with lush green forests, rolling fields, wildflowers, and bright sunshine.
You'll typically see:
- Rich green trees and mountains
- Golden grasses and fields
- Wildflowers in bloom
- Bright, warm sunsets
July sessions feel energetic, carefree, and full of summer adventure. The weather is warm, school hasn't started yet, and schedules tend to be much more flexible.
Perfect for seniors who love: sunshine, hiking, lakes, fields, and vibrant green landscapes.
August: Golden Summer Evenings
August brings many of the same beautiful greens as July but with a slightly softer, more golden feel. Fields often become more yellow and sun-kissed, creating beautiful contrast against Vermont's greenery.
You'll typically see:
Deep greens
Golden grasses
Warm sunset light
Late-summer flowers
August is often one of the easiest months for scheduling. Sports practices and school activities haven't fully taken over calendars yet, making it easier to find dates that work.
Perfect for seniors who want: warm, glowing summer colors and flexible scheduling.
September: The Best of Both Worlds
September is often overlooked, but it can be one of the most versatile months for senior photos.
Early September still has plenty of summer color, while late September begins introducing hints of fall foliage.
You'll typically see:
Green forests mixed with early yellows
Golden fields
Cooler temperatures
Early foliage in higher elevations
For seniors involved in fall sports, however, scheduling can become more challenging as practices, games, and school commitments ramp up.
Perfect for seniors who want: a mix of summer and fall colors.
October: Vermont's Famous Fall Foliage
October is what most people picture when they think about Vermont photography.
The mountains and forests transform into stunning shades of orange, red, yellow, and gold, creating some of the most iconic scenery in the country.
You'll typically see:
- Bright orange maples
- Deep red foliage
- Golden yellow leaves
- Dramatic autumn landscapes
There's no denying that fall is beautiful. However, it's important to understand that foliage season is also the most unpredictable time of year.
Peak foliage can vary significantly depending on weather conditions. Some years colors arrive early, while other years they arrive later. Strong winds, rain, or early frosts can shorten the season quickly.
Unlike summer, there is very little room for flexibility if weather becomes an issue.
Perfect for seniors who love: classic Vermont foliage and autumn colors.
Why Summer Deserves More Attention
Fall gets most of the attention, but summer offers several advantages that many families don't consider.
More Scheduling Flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of summer sessions is flexibility.
If we need to reschedule because of rain, storms, or unexpected circumstances, there is usually plenty of time to find another date before yearbook deadlines arrive.
By contrast, fall sessions often happen closer to those deadlines. If weather becomes a factor, options can become limited very quickly.
Less Stress
Summer means:
- No school schedule
- No homework
- Fewer sports commitments
- More available evenings
Once school starts, calendars fill up fast with practices, games, clubs, jobs, and other activities.
More Consistent Color
Summer landscapes are generally predictable. Vermont's greens, fields, and wildflowers remain beautiful throughout the season.
Fall foliage, while stunning, changes every year. The exact timing and intensity of colors can never be guaranteed.
Don't Forget About Yearbook Deadlines
Many schools require senior portraits months before graduation. Depending on the school, yearbook deadlines often fall anywhere between October and January.
Scheduling early helps ensure:
- Plenty of time for editing and delivery
- Flexibility for weather reschedules
- Less stress during the school year
- More options when choosing your session date
So Which Season Is Better?
The truth is, there isn't a wrong answer.
If you've always dreamed of orange and red foliage, fall may be the perfect fit.
If you love lush landscapes, golden sunsets, flexible scheduling, and a more relaxed experience, summer might be exactly what you're looking for.
No matter when you choose to schedule your senior session, Vermont provides an incredible backdrop. From the vibrant greens of July and August to the fiery colors of October, every season offers something unique.
The best season is the one that matches your personality, style, and schedule.
