High school senior girl standing on large rocks by the ocean at Sandy Beach in Cohasset, MA. She wears a white and pink floral dress, looking directly at the camera with a gentle smile. This portrait showcases the scenic Cohasset Beach backdrop for a senior photoshoot.

Senior Portraits

Cohasset Beach Photographer Captures Unforgettable Senior

When Sammy booked her senior photo session with me, a Cohasset beach photographer, she already had a few big decisions under her belt—most notably, her early commitment to Boston College’s Division 1 rowing team.

Yes, you read that right! She’s going to row for BC, a top-tier accomplishment in itself, but the story gets even better. Sammy only took up rowing a year ago!

After tearing her ACL and having to change sports, she discovered a natural talent for rowing. Now, here she is, poised to row at the collegiate level in her very first year of eligibility. And the best part? Sammy is so humble, I didn’t even know the full scope of her success until nearly the end of the session!

Since Sammy loves the beach, we decided on two locations. Her aunt’s home in Cohasset and Sandy Beach in Cohasset for her senior pictures—two location that truly brought her personality and spirit to life.

We started the session at her family’s private home and then headed down to the beach, where we captured beautiful shots as the sun dipped toward the horizon.

Sammy also wanted a few shots with Boone, her aunt’s dog, who was more than happy to make his modeling debut. Watching Boone trot around the sand and Sammy laugh as he struck his best doggie poses gave the photos so much character and warmth. It was the perfect way to capture Sammy’s lighthearted, down-to-earth spirit.

Are Senior Pictures Still a Thing?

Absolutely, they are!

Senior pictures are more than just a high school milestone—they’re a celebration of the young adult you’ve become.

For Sammy, these photos capture a special season of her life as she transitions from high school to college and steps into her new role as a BC athlete. It’s a moment to remember who you are right now: your passions, your accomplishments, and your favorite things.

And let’s be real– who doesn’t love a few gorgeous photos to share with family and friends, for graduation announcements, or even for LinkedIn?

Senior pictures have both sentimental and practical value. They’re a way of saying, “This is me,” in a season when everything is changing fast.

Is It Too Late for Senior Pictures?

One question I get often as a Cohasset beach photographer is, “Is it too late to book senior photos?” And the answer is no, it’s never too late!

While summer or early fall is ideal if you’re working with a yearbook deadline, senior photos can be taken any time of the year.

Fall sessions have that cozy, layered look with natural colors, while winter photos can be absolutely stunning if you’re game for braving the cold or if you have an indoor location in mind.

The truth is, anytime you want to capture who you are during this time of your life is a perfect time for a senior session.

Where is the Best Place to Take Senior Pictures?

This is another one of those questions without a single right answer. The “best” location is one that makes you feel at ease and connected to the surroundings.

For Sammy, Sandy Beach in Cohasset was a natural choice. It’s where she’s spent countless hours relaxing and enjoying her love of the ocean, and the setting complemented her personality beautifully.

Beaches are always close to my heart, and the Cape and South Shore have so many options—from the classic sand-and-surf look to rocky, dramatic coastal cliffs.

But honestly? Any place that feels meaningful or makes you light up is a wonderful choice for senior photos. Whether that’s your family home, a favorite park, or a place that reflects a special interest, the goal is to capture you in a location that helps tell your story.

What Not to Wear for Senior Photos

Outfit choice is such a fun part of planning a senior session, and I like to keep things easy when it comes to offering advice.

The main tip from a Cohasset beach photographer? Wear what makes you feel fantastic!

That said, there are a few small pointers to help ensure your images look timeless and your features pop. For instance, avoiding super dark or very bright neon colors can help your skin tones look natural in photos, especially in softer natural light. Dark colors can sometimes feel heavy, while neon colors can reflect back on your skin, creating an effect called “color cast.”

Another tip is to balance form-fitting outfits with ones that give you room to move and play. A fitted outfit can look sleek and striking, but it can limit posing options—if you want that twirl effect, bring a flowy skirt or dress that lets you show a bit of movement and personality.

The most important thing, though, is that you feel comfortable and confident. Sammy brought a perfect mix of stunning and relaxed outfits for her beach session, which let her personality shine through naturally.

What is the Best Month to Take Senior Pictures?

There’s no “perfect” month, but certain times of the year do add a unique beauty to your photos.

Spring through October is the sweet spot for outdoor sessions on the South Shore, with warmer temperatures, blooming landscapes, and golden sunsets that seem to last forever.

If you’re after that warm, breezy beach vibe, summer and early fall are your best bets. But every season has its charm, and if you’re more of a winter lover, snowy scenes can create an ethereal, magical look that’s hard to beat.

Ultimately, the best time to take your senior photos is when you’re ready and excited to capture this special season. Sammy chose early fall, which gave her photos a classic, golden-hour glow that matched her perfectly.

What’s the Difference Between Senior Photos and Graduation Photos?

The terms “senior photos” and “graduation photos” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they’re not quite the same.

Senior photos are all about capturing you—your interests, your personality, and your style—while you’re still in high school or college.

Graduation photos, on the other hand, typically include a cap and gown to celebrate the culmination of your journey, usually taken closer to graduation day itself. Both types of photos are valuable keepsakes and can be done separately or together, depending on what you’re looking for.

Closing Thoughts: A Senior Session to Remember with a Cohasset Beach Photographer

Sammy’s senior session was the perfect mix of laid-back beach vibes and celebration of her hard-earned achievements. From the moment I arrived at her aunt’s home, her ease and grace were clear. We captured stunning images of her as she steps into an exciting new chapter of life.

The fact that she’s also an incredible rower is just the icing on the cake. Her love for the beach, her humility, and her love for her family (and Boone the dog!) shone through every shot, and it was such an honor to be a part of capturing her story.

To anyone considering a senior session, I’d say don’t wait! This is a moment worth capturing, whether it’s on a beach, in a favorite park, or at home with family. And if you’re on the fence, just remember: photos are one of the best ways to keep memories alive, and they’ll be a legacy you can look back on with pride.

So, if you’re ready to capture this exciting season of life, let’s chat about making it happen. Senior year only comes once, and there’s no better time to celebrate you. Click here to fill out my inquiry form so we can get started!