When Should You Book Your Grad Photos in DFW? (Don't Wait Too Long)
Every semester, I get a wave of last-minute messages from graduating students who waited too long. My calendar fills up fast - especially during peak graduation season in May and December — and I hate having to turn students away. So I wrote this guide to help you plan ahead and lock in your session at the right time.
The Short Answer
Book 2-3 months (6–12 weeks) before your graduation date. If you're graduating in May, that means booking in March or early April. Graduating in December? Book in October or November. Trust me, your college grad portraits are the last thing you want to be stressing over. Book today with Eric Aaberg Photography to reserve your shoot with the ability to reschedule/move your booking around!
Why Does It Fill Up So Fast?
DFW is home to dozens of universities, and graduation season creates a concentrated surge of demand for professional photographers. A single day might have multiple UTD grads, UNT grads, and SMU grads all trying to book sessions. Photographers with strong reputations fill up first - often weeks before anyone realizes the rush is happening.
Graduating May?
Book by March 1 - April 15th.
Busiest season. Warm weather, lush campus greenery. Book early.
Graduating August?
Book by JUNE - JULY.
Summer graduation - lighter demand, earlier morning shoots recommended for heat.
Graduating December?
Book by OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 15.
Second busiest season. Fall foliage is beautiful. DFW weather at its best.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long?
You'll likely still find a photographer - but probably not your first choice. Overbooking leads to rushed sessions, less attention per client, and photographers stretching beyond their best availability windows. Your graduation photos are a once-in-a-lifetime shot (literally). Don't compromise on them because of a scheduling miss.
What to Prepare Before You Book
- Your graduation date and any related events (commencement, family dinners, etc.).
- 2–4 outfit ideas in mind (check out our What to Wear Guide for inspiration).
- 1–3 locations on campus you love and want to shoot at.
- Whether you want to split the session with friends and their availability.
- Whether you want cap and gown shots, casual portraits, or both.
Early Booking Advantage
Students who book early get first pick of dates, times, and day-of-week — which matters a lot for lighting. Golden hour slots (the last hour before sunset) are the first to fill. If you want that warm, cinematic light, book early and request it explicitly.
I shoot grad portraits for students at UTD, UNT, SMU, UTA, TWU, and more across the DFW metroplex. Current booking calendar is open — grab your spot before the rush.
How to Book With Eric Aaberg Photography
I've captured hundreds of college and high school graduates in the DFW Metroplex from UNT, UTD, SMU, UTA, TWU, and more. I take pride in ensuring the client process is as stress-free as possible - with the ability for you to book without having to go back and forth (like most traditional photography sites). Feel free to book instantly yourself or drop me a message and I'd be happy to answer any questions you have!
Packages start at $299 for a 1-hour session with 100–200 fully edited portraits, delivered in 4–7 business days. Sessions can be split with up to 5 friends, making it one of the most affordable ways to get professional graduation photos in DFW.
