Planning Your Senior Pictures in Shenandoah National Park


So you're thinking about doing your senior pictures in Shenandoah National Park? If you're looking for a breathtaking backdrop for your photos, Shenandoah is a great choice. This place is seriously stunning year-round, and it's one of my favorite locations for capturing senior portraits. Whether you're a local or planning a trip to visit Virginia’s mountains, I’ve got some tips to help you make the most of your session.

A woman in a white dress stands atop a stone wall with rolling mountains and lush greenery in the background.

Why Shenandoah National Park is perfect for senior pictures

Between the mountain overlooks, waterfalls, and wildflower-filled meadows (not to mention fall color that’ll make your jaw drop), it’s a dream location. Here’s what makes it extra special for senior photos:

  • Tons of variety in one single area: overlooks, trails, woods, fields
  • Golden hour from up high is a whole other vibe
  • You get images that feel adventurous and unique, yet timeless
Someone in a white dress with pink accents stands looking out over mountain scenery while holding a small purse.
Graduate in white dress throws diploma papers in front of rock tunnel on rural road, celebrating achievement.
Someone poses casually on a large rock with a scenic waterfall cascading down rocks in the background.

When to schedule your session

Shenandoah’s beauty shifts with the seasons, so here’s a quick breakdown:

Spring (May–June): Fresh greens and blooming wildflowers.

Summer (July–September): Lush, full foliage and longer evenings—great for that dreamy golden sunset glow.

Fall (Late September–October): The foliage is chef’s kiss. Peak leaf peeping is usually the second or third week of October, and it can be difficult to get into the park during this time. Traffic at the entrances backs up for hours on these weekends. If you do want to try for a weekday, you'll still need to book early to make sure you get your preferred date!

Winter (November–early April): Moody vibes, snow-dusted trails, and icicles. Bring blankets and your cozy sweaters and jackets. It’s cold, but gorgeous in its own way.


Pro tip: Weekdays are best (in any season) if you want fewer people around.



What to Wear (And What Not To)

Outfits with movement (think flowy dresses) photograph beautifully. Keep it comfy—you’ll probably be walking around a bit—and bring shoes you can hike in if we’re heading to an overlook. You can always change at the top. For drive-up spots and short hikes, I have a pop-up changing tent available to use.


Avoid neon colors or tiny patterns that can be distracting. Classic neutrals and solid jewel-tone colors (blue, green, purple, etc.) look great against Shenandoah’s natural backdrops. If you're planning to bring your cap and gown, make sure you have something appropriate to wear under it. If possible, steam your gown ahead of time to remove the wrinkles.

Three graduates in navy blue caps and gowns stand together smiling on grassy field with mountains in background.
Graduate in turquoise cap and gown holding white and silver honor cords stands in front of cascading waterfall.
Someone in a pink robe and white dress tosses paper airplanes against a scenic mountain backdrop on a cloudy day.

Coming from out of town? Here’s what to know

If you're driving in for your senior pictures in Shenandoah National Park, here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Cell service is spotty, especially deeper in the park. Download directions or pin the meeting spot in advance.
  • Skyline Drive requires an entrance fee (currently $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days).
  • Bring snacks + water, especially if we're doing a longer hike or shooting at sunset.
  • Weather changes fast—layers are your friend, and I’ll keep an eye on the forecast leading up to your session.
  • Consider making a day of it! Grab lunch in Luray, explore a trail, or book a cozy Airbnb or B&B nearby.


Let’s make this a vibe

Senior pictures should feel like you—your personality, your energy, your style. My job is to help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, have fun, and walk away with photos you’re actually excited to share. I'll send you a questionnaire before your session, and we can create a moodboard together to share ideas.

A woman in a white sundress sits on grassy hillside at sunset with sunlight creating a warm backlit glow.
Black and white portrait of a person in a strapless dress standing in a meadow with mountains in the background during sunset.
Graduate wearing white dress and decorated graduation cap with pink flowers poses outdoors against scenic mountain backdrop.
Young person in a white cap and black Carhartt t-shirt posing outdoors by a lake.
Someone wearing a white cap and black t-shirt sits relaxing on green grass in a sunny park setting.
Graduate in white cap and gown stands on mountaintop overlooking scenic green rolling hills on cloudy day.
A hiker stands among large boulders and autumn trees on a rocky forest trail covered in fallen leaves.
Smiling person in black shirt sitting on rocky terrain surrounded by autumn leaves.
Someone in a white dress sits under a large tree on a grassy hill during golden hour sunset.

Ready to plan your own senior session in Shenandoah? Reach out here and let’s start dreaming up your perfect shoot. You can also check out some of my favorite locations for pictures in Shenandoah National Park here.