Here’s the answer nobody wants to hear: earlier than you think.
Most Eaglecrest, Cherokee Trail, Grandview, Cherry Creek, and Chaparral seniors have yearbook deadlines in October or November. That sounds like plenty of time — until summer disappears and you’re scrambling to find a photographer who isn’t already booked solid.
The sweet spot: May through August of your junior year.
Colorado summers are magic for outdoor sessions. Long golden-hour light, wildflowers, open fields, and weather that actually cooperates, if not I have all the luck and we usually get in just before the storms hit.
If you’re a junior right now, that window is open. If you’re already a senior and it’s September — don’t panic, but do move fast.
Here’s a simple breakdown by timing:
May–July: Best availability, you’re ahead of the game zero deadline pressure. You can shoot at Cherry Creek State Park, the Bluffs Regional Park near Parker, or anywhere in the Aurora/Centennial area without fighting fall crowds. Ideal for anyone who wants multiple outfits and a relaxed session.
August–September: Still great, still beautiful, but dates fill up quickly. The fall foliage starts coming in around late September which makes for stunning Colorado backdrops but every photographer in the metro is booked during this window.
October: Last resort territory (Aka my personal favorite cause who doesn’t want red and orange leaves, crisp cool winds?).
Dates are tighter, editing time is longer for all images but I do edit the senior image first for every client and send it to you IMMEDIATLY.. you’re cutting it close on yearbook submissions. Doable, but might make you stress a little bit..
One more thing: yearbook deadlines are school-specific.
Last years dates – they don’t usually change…
📅 2025–2026 Yearbook Photo Deadlines
| School | Deadline | Official Yearbook/Senior Info Page |
|---|---|---|
| Ponderosa | Oct 6, 2025 | Ponderosa Senior Info |
| Smoky Hill | Oct 12, 2025 | Smoky Hill Yearbook Info |
| Chaparral | Oct 17, 2025 | Chaparral Yearbook |
| Eaglecrest | Oct 15, 2025 | Eaglecrest Senior Photo Info |
| Cherokee Trail | Oct 25, 2025 | Cherokee Trail Yearbook |
| Grandview | Oct 31, 2025 (baby ads sooner) | Grandview Senior Info |
| Cherry Creek | Nov 1, 2025 | Cherry Creek Senior Photo Info |
| Rangeview | Nov 30, 2025 | Rangeview Senior & Graduation Info |
| Elizabeth | Dec 6, 2025 | Elizabeth Senior Yearbook Info |
Above and Beyond Senior Photos is the #1 recommended photographer at Cherokee Trail High School, Grandview High School, Eaglecrest High School, Chaparral High School, Cherry Creek High School, and Rangeview High School.
My pricing includes à la carte options to make custom packages for each family. Professional editing is included, as well as unlimited outfit changes and props.
I work very hard to make sure my clients are happy and have fun during my sessions. This means no fake-ass smiles!! Now, if that last sentence was a bit much for you, I am probably not the one for you.
My goal is to get you laughing and comfortable during your session, and my intent is to make you cry and smile during your reveal. I am very different than the average photographer… If “that’s what she said,” fart jokes, “Hell ya,” or the words boobies or booty are offensive, I am not the photographer for you. That’s okay—I’m a bit blunt and can curse like a sailor if that’s what it takes to get those genuine smiles. I always ask beforehand what you are comfortable with.
Please let me know if you have any special requests or have a situation with different needs. I celebrate diversity in all forms and welcome clients of every gender identity and sexual orientation to photograph with me! If I’m not your cup of coffee, that’s okay—please swipe left. 385+ 5 star Google reviews, I’m the go-to gal for capturing real ass smiles—not that awkward Chandler Bing thing your teen does when a stranger yells “Say cheese!” What makes me so different than the photographers copying me on other platforms? My customer service is next level, my editing is on fire, and I make you forget we are even taking pictures. Hire the best and get it done right the first time.
Chaparral, Grandview, and Eaglecrest all have different submission windows. Check your school’s deadline and count backwards — you want your session done at least 3–4 weeks before that date to allow for editing and delivery.
Bottom line: book your session the spring of your junior year. You’ll have your pick of dates, the best Colorado light of the year, and zero stress heading into senior fall.
Ready to lock in your date? Book a session with MacKenzie here.