Gilbert Class of 2026: Why Now is The Time to Plan Senior Portraits in Arizona (Yes, Even in the Heat)
Class of 2026: Why Now is The Time to Plan Senior Portraits in Arizona (Yes, Even in the Heat)
Senior year doesn’t tiptoe in—it shows up like a freight train.
One minute they’re asking to borrow the car, and the next you’re Googling cap and gown deadlines.
If you’re the parent of a Class of 2026 senior, here’s your permission slip to start planning senior portraits now, while your calendar still room on your calendar and before school chaos kicks in.
I’ve never had a parent tell me they wish they waited longer.
And no, we’re not doing sessions in 110°. That's what planning is for.
Why Start Now (Even if It’s 114° Outside)
Arizona heat doesn't just melt makeup, it limits options. By planning your senior session
Now, you get:
Priority access to fall’s best dates: When it’s cool enough to breath, laugh, and layer.
A Real Plan: not a last-minute “grab what’s left” in between sports and school.
Time to Make it Yours: Chose the right wardrobe, the perfect location and create something meaningful.
Zero Panic Before yearbook deadlines or college aps roll in.
Show me where.
One of my most vivid memories from high school isn’t a football game or a dance—it’s my senior portrait session. That portrait still hangs in my parents' hallway, and every time I visit, I stop and stare at it.
I remember being 18. I was a little unsure of myself, probably more self-conscious than I’d ever admit. But that photo? It reminds me that I was radiant. Confident, even if I didn’t feel it. That portrait captured something I couldn’t see yet—but I’m so grateful it exists.
It’s more than a picture. It’s proof of who I was—and a reminder of how far I’ve come.
The Full-Service Difference
This isn’t just another photo session.
At Andria May Photography, we take time to make it personal– so your senior doesn't just look like themselves, they feel like themselves in every photo.
We take time to:
Pre-Session Planning Consultation: We talk through who your senior is, what they love, and what kind of story we want their session to tell. This isn’t about stiff poses. It’s about capturing their confidence, creativity, or even their quiet strength.
Wardrobe + Location Guidance: You're busy, we get it. We will help style and scout so you don't have to overthink a thing. We’ll find a location that feels like them and guidance on outfits that bring it all together.
Finished Wall-Worthy Artwork You won’t just walk away with “just digitals.” These portraits are made to be seen, membered and passed down– not forgotten on a hard drive.
Class of 2026—Let’s Kick Off Senior Year in Style
To celebrate the start of senior year, we’re hosting a LIVE event this August in Gilbert, Arizona just for Class of 2026 seniors and their families.
Here’s what you can expect:
A back-to-school Photo Booth to capture the excitement of this once-in-a-lifetime season
A chance to connect with other local families
Sneak peeks at senior artwork, style tips, and booking info
Exclusive event-only bonuses for those who attend
No pressure. No sales pitch. Just a fun, relaxed way to celebrate the Class of 2026 and start the year off right.
✨ Details coming soon. Make sure you're on the list—you won't want to miss it.
This summer, I’m launching something bold: the 10 Session Challenge—ten fully custom portrait sessions in just 30 days.
And here’s the exciting part:
I’m saving just two of those sessions for the Class of 2026—one girl and one guy.
These aren’t mini sessions.
They’re full-service, deeply personalized experiences with:
Wardrobe support
Location planning
Artwork design
And one of the ten sessions will even be featured in an international art show
📅 The challenge starts July 10.
First come, first served—and these senior spots will go fast.
👉 Click here to claim one of the Class of 2026 spots
Because your teen isn’t just worth remembering—
They’re wall-worthy.
Q: What is the best month to take senior pictures in Arizona?
A: In Arizona, I recommend scheduling senior portraits during late summer or early fall. Summer gives us more flexibility, golden light, and time before school stress kicks in. Fall offers cooler weather, but those dates go fast—booking early gives you options.
Q: When should we schedule senior portraits?
A: The best time to book is during the spring or summer before senior year begins. That gives you access to the best weekend dates, more time for wardrobe planning, and space to create something truly custom. I’ve never had a parent wish they booked later—only sooner.
Q: Where do you take senior portraits?
A: I personalize every session based on your senior’s style and personality, but here are some of the most popular East Valley locations we love:
No-fee or easy-access favorites:
Riparian Preserve (lush, natural, great light)
Veterans Oasis Park (desert trails and open skies)
Downtown Gilbert (urban charm + color)
Mesa Arts Center (modern architecture + color)
San Tan Mountain Regional Park (sweeping desert views)
Downtown Tempe & the pedestrian bridge (city vibes + water reflections)
Permit or site fee locations:
Desert Botanical Garden* (desert elegance + iconic cactus backdrops)
Agritopia* (editorial charm and farm-style texture)
Coon Bluff Recreation Area* (adventurous mountain scenery)
*Locations marked with an asterisk require a photo permit or site fee.
If you're not sure what fits best, that’s part of the full-service experience—we help guide you every step of the way.
Check Out Why I started to Blog in My Last Blog Post Here: https://andriamayphotography.com/post/gilbert-family-photography-blog-introduction
With Warmth,
Andria May
