When to Book Senior Photos in Michigan

Timeline for class of 2026 · Holland & West Michigan schools

Michigan seniors often wait until summer and find prime weekend slots gone. Booking early gets you golden-hour Lake Michigan dates and time for hair, outfits, and announcement ordering. Most West Michigan families follow a rough timeline like this.

Junior year spring (April-June)

Good if you're planning ahead, juggling sports in senior fall, or want tulip season in Holland. Dates are easier to get. Some seniors would rather shoot closer to graduation when they feel more like a senior.

Summer before senior year (June-August)

The most popular window for Lake Michigan beach sessions. Warm weather and long sunsets, but July and August book up fast. Plan 2-4 months ahead. See the locations guide for spot ideas.

Senior fall (September-October)

Fall color and cozy layers. Works for yearbook if your deadline allows. Just watch the overlap with school, sports, and college applications. Confirm your yearbook cutoff with the counseling office early.

Senior spring (March-May)

Cap-and-gown, a second outfit round, or a catch-up if you missed summer. Beach weather is cooler, and Holland gets crowded during tulip season in May.

Yearbook & announcement deadlines

Every district differs. Holland, West Ottawa, Zeeland, and Grand Haven schools often collect senior portraits in early fall of senior year. Allow 2-4 weeks after your session for gallery delivery and cropping. If you're targeting graduation announcements, order proofs soon after your summer shoot so print labs meet mail dates.

How far in advance to contact your photographer

For West Michigan summer weekends, book about 3-4 months out. Shoulder seasons (May, September), about 6-8 weeks. Last-minute openings happen. Ask, but don't count on one for your only outfit at Holland State Park on a Saturday in July.

Check availability or read about senior portrait packages.