Senior Portraits  ·  Twin Cities, MN

Everything you need
to know before your
senior session.

From outfits and locations to what happens after the gallery drops — this guide walks you through the whole process so there are no surprises on the day.

Senior pictures by Steve Lunden Photography, photographer based in Coon Rapids MN

Senior year is a once-in-a-lifetime chapter.

One minute they're starting kindergarten, and the next you're helping them plan for graduation. I specialize in stress-free, fun, and stunning senior portraits that reflect who your teen actually is — no awkward poses, no forced smiles. This guide walks you through everything you need to know before we shoot.

Seven steps to a perfect session

01

Book Early — The Best Dates Go Fast

Senior portraits are about telling a story. The best way to secure a spot before yearbook deadlines and Minnesota's unpredictable weather get in the way is to lock in your date early. Each season brings something different:

Spring & Summer — Vibrant outdoor shoots with warm golden-hour light.
Fall — Crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy outfit options that photograph beautifully.
Winter — Bold, moody snow-covered backdrops for a more dramatic look.

Think about what fits your senior's personality. If they love warm, earthy tones, summer or fall is the sweet spot. If they want something more dramatic and editorial, a winter session can deliver.

Heads up: Fall sessions fill extremely fast once school starts. If you want September or October, booking in June or July is not too early.
02

What to Wear for Senior Pictures — Looking and Feeling Their Best

Deciding what to wear for senior pictures makes a real difference in how your senior feels and looks in the photos. A few guidelines to go in with:

For Girls

  • Soft neutrals, pastels, or jewel tones photograph beautifully
  • Flowing dresses, layered outfits, and statement accessories add personality
  • Avoid large logos and neon colors — they pull focus from your senior's face

For Guys

  • Solid colors, fitted layers, and classic button-downs work great
  • Mix it up — one casual look, one dressed-up
  • A well-fitted blazer or clean sneakers can elevate the whole look
Pro tip: Bring a few extra outfits. Variety in your gallery means more looks that truly showcase who your senior is.