Congratulations on your upcoming graduation! 🎓 Senior year is such a whirlwind with late-night study sessions, big games, prom, and that bittersweet feeling of knowing you’re about to step into new adventures. Senior photos are one of the best ways to celebrate this season, and I’m here to help you plan the perfect session.

If you’re dreaming of senior photos in Minnesota, this guide will walk you through everything: when to schedule, what to wear, where to go, and how to make your session fun and unforgettable.

Why Should You Schedule a Senior Photography Session?

Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I even schedule a senior photo session?” You may even hate having your pictures taken… I believe senior year is such a HUGE milestone. It’s the end of an era and the start of a new adventure – whatever the future has in store for you! These photos are a way to freeze this special moment in time. 

There’s something about a professional photo shoot that makes you feel AMAZING. It’s a day where you’re the star, which can be a big confidence booster! It also helps if you have an experienced Minnesota senior photographer there to hype you up *wink wink*!

And if you still need convincing, another great reason to have your senior photos taken is the chance to express yourself! Let’s show the world who you are, your hobbies, your passions! Years from now, you’ll look back at these pics and remember your youth, hopes, and dreams. It may be cheesy, but I think you’ll be really happy to have these memories. 

When Are Senior Photos Taken?

One of the most common questions I get asked is, “When’s the best time of year for my senior pictures?” The truth is, the PERFECT time for senior photos is totally up to YOU! I can snap gorgeous senior portraits any time of year, rain or shine.

If you love blooming crabapple trees and soft pastels, spring is your season. Summer is golden and dreamy, perfect for lakefront sunsets and fields of tall grass. Fall is the most popular time, with vibrant red and orange leaves making the whole state look like a painting.

So, what’s the most important thing in deciding when to take senior pictures? It’s all about YOU – how packed your schedule is during the school year, what you plan to do with the photos, and your preference about the seasons.

For example, if you want to use your photos for your yearbook, I recommend doing them during the summer or early fall. Most seniors book 3–6 months in advance, for this time of year particularly. And if you’re unsure, you can always message me, and I’ll help you decide on the best timing for your senior photos in Minnesota!

Tips for Taking Your Senior Photos in Minnesota

Outfit Choices

Choose 2-3 Outfits: I always recommend choosing 2-3 different outfits to give your gallery a nice variety. You could go for a casual look, a dressy option, and something that shows off your hobbies or interests! You can also always ask for my advice if you choose me to capture your Minnesota senior photos!

Colors and Patterns: Solid colors are great, and so are subtle patterns. Just avoid anything too loud or busy that might take the focus off of YOU!

Be Comfortable: Choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfy! I recommend wearing an outfit you already have in your closet that you LOVE! Skip anything that feels stiff, uncomfortable, or not like “you,” because if you don’t love how you feel in it, it’ll show in the photos.

Bring Props: These are always fun, whether that’s your guitar, your sports jersey, or even your dog tagging along for the session.

Don’t Forget About Shoes: Shoes might not be the first thing you think of when planning your outfits, but they can really impact your photos (and your comfort!). If we’re walking through fields, along trails, or across the beach, you’ll want something practical to slip on and off. Bring a pair of comfy shoes for getting from spot to spot, and then switch into your dressier shoes once we’re ready to shoot. That said, your shoes can be part of your look, too. Boots in the fall, sneakers that show off your style, or even bare feet on the beach

Stay Natural and True to You

You want your senior photos to truly reflect you, so I don’t recommend trying out a brand-new hairstyle or makeup you wouldn’t normally do. If you use makeup, apply it as you do daily! If you want to splurge, you can also get your hair and makeup done professionally. However, make sure it still remains natural and true to you!

Also, please avoid a fake tan! Those tend to look very orange, come out uneven, and overall unnatural. Your natural skin tone is the best!

Location Ideas for Your Senior Photos in Minnesota

Minnesota has some of the most GORGEOUS backdrops for your senior photos. If you’re near Bemidji, Duluth, or Fargo, ND, here are a few of my fave spots!

• Lake Bemidji State Park: It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for natural, outdoorsy photos. Imagine walking through fields of tall grass, leaning against a wooden bridge, or dipping your toes into the lake at sunset. With its mix of trails, trees, and water, you get so many different looks in one location.

• Downtown Bemidji: Looking for an urban vibe? Downtown Bemidji has the coolest murals, brick buildings, and trendy spots that give your photos a modern, artistic edge. We can explore side streets for hidden gems or find a flower-filled corner for a softer touch.!

• Enger Park: Want a mix of lush greenery and stunning city views? This is your spot! You’ll find lush gardens, stone structures, and sweeping overlooks of the city and Lake Superior. It feels both natural and a little magical.

• Canal Park: For another more urban setting with a touch of nature, Canal Park offers fantastic views of the Lake Superior shoreline. Absolutely gorgeous!

• Forest River Park: For a beautiful, foresty location just outside Minnesota in North Dakota, this park is a great choice for your senior photos.

• Downtown Fargo: This is a gorgeous downtown area in Fargo, ND. It’s full of cute coffee shops, murals, and creative architecture that give your photos a cool, city energy. If your personality leans more trendy and artsy, this location is a perfect fit.

Making the Most of Your Session

Almost everyone feels a little awkward in front of camera at first, and that’s totally normal. We’ll put on some music, laugh a lot, and get you moving so it feels more like hanging out than posing stiffly. My goal is for you to leave saying, “No way, that was actually so much fun.”

Your senior photos in Minnesota should feel authentic, comfortable, and full of personality. At the end of the day, this isn’t about looking like someone else! It’s about celebrating YOU!

Kind Words from a Senior Mom

“Amelia Jo Photo-just wow. I can see why she’s so popular. Amazing photos. Plus, it took my shy Brooklyn about 0.7 seconds to feel like she was having a photo shoot with her best friend. I cannot recommend her enough!”

Contact Me to Capture Your Senior Photos in Minnesota!

I hope you’re as EXCITED as I am about your upcoming senior photo session! I hope that these tips have been helpful to you! 

I’m Amelia, a Minnesota senior photographer, and I’d LOVE to capture your senior photos! You can check out my portfolio here! If you like what you see, contact me, and let’s plan and capture the perfect session together!