0045.jpg

Blog | Merry Ohler | Wedding Photographer Kansas City

Kansas City Wedding Photographer | Ethereal, Cinematic, Intimate. | Merry Ohler writes about elopements, weddings, photography tips and more. Check out the most recent post today!

Senior Photos in Kansas City | Liberty MO Senior Photographer

Senior Photos in Kansas City: Don't Wait Until It's Too Late to Book!

Senior year goes by in the blink of an eye. One minute, you're touring colleges and planning prom, and the next, you're ordering your cap and gown. In that whirlwind of excitement and deadlines, one thing often gets pushed to the bottom of the to-do list: senior photos.

If you're a parent or a soon-to-be graduate in the Kansas City area, consider this a friendly reminder—don't wait too long to book your senior session. Whether you're looking for a Liberty MO senior photographer, a Kearney MO senior photographer, or someone in Parkville, Lee's Summit, Overland Park, or any of the beautiful communities around Kansas City, booking early is key to getting the date, season, and style you want.

Image of student holding a backpack in front of a brick wall.


When Should You Book Senior Photos in Kansas City?

It's a question I get all the time: "When is the best time to book senior pictures?"

There isn't one perfect answer—it depends on the look you love, the time of year you envision, and your schedule. But here's a general rule of thumb:

  • Spring and Summer (March-August): These months offer lush greenery, warm sunlight, and long golden hours.

  • Fall (September–November): By far the most popular season! Think cozy sweaters, boots, and vibrant foliage.

  • Winter (December–February): Underrated but absolutely magical for a minimal, modern vibe.

The most important thing? Book 3–6 months ahead. Senior photographers in Kansas City and surrounding towns like Plattsburg and Excelsior Springs often fill up quickly—especially for fall dates. Feel like you missed your window? It’s not too late. Contact me today to schedule your session and lock in your spot on my calendar!

Liberty MO Senior Photographer

Photo of graduates tossing their caps in the air at sunset.

Why Waiting Can Hurt You

I've heard the panic more times than I can count:

"We waited too long and are down to the wire! Can you squeeze us in?"

Here's what can happen when you wait:

  • Limited availability (especially in peak seasons like October)

  • Missing your school's yearbook deadline

  • Rushed planning (outfits, locations, hair and makeup, etc.)

  • Less flexibility if weather changes or reschedules are needed

Booking early gives you peace of mind and time to plan a session that truly reflects your personality.

What to Look for in a Senior Photographer Near You

Not all senior sessions are created equal. You deserve more than stiff poses and awkward smiles. Whether you're searching for a Gladstone, MO senior photographer or someone in Overland Park, look for these qualities:

  • Experience working with high school seniors

  • A portfolio that shows variety and personality

  • Help with styling, location scouting, and posing

  • A documentary approach that captures you as you are

  • Options for digital downloads, prints, and heirloom albums

I specialize in unposed, storytelling-style portraits that celebrate this season of life in a natural and memorable way.

How to Prepare for Your Senior Session

Once you've booked your date, the fun begins! Here's how to make the most of your shoot:

  • Outfits: Bring a few different looks—something casual, dressy, and something that reflects your passions (sports, music, art, etc.)

  • Hair + Makeup: Whether you DIY or hire a pro, aim for a polished version of your everyday style

  • Props: Letterman jacket, instruments, books, car, pet—whatever helps tell your story

  • Mindset: Come ready to laugh, explore, and make memories

Don't worry—I'll help you plan every detail.

Excelsior Springs MO Senior Photographer

Silhouette of a young man sitting in an open window staring at the sea.

Best Photo Spots in the Kansas City Area

Each neighborhood has its charm. Here are some of my favorite locations in the communities I serve:

  • Liberty, MO: The historic Liberty Square, surrounding alleys and scenic nature options

  • Kearney, MO: Open fields and rustic barns with golden hour glow

  • Parkville, MO: English Landing Park and downtown's cobblestone streets

  • Lee's Summit, MO: Downtown murals, gardens, and quiet lake views

  • Overland Park, KS: Thompson Park, Arboretum, and urban vibes

  • Plattsburg,, MO: Gravel roads, fence lines, and timeless rural backdrops

  • Excelsior Springs, MO: Hall of Waters and the Elms Hotel grounds

  • Gladstone, MO: Public parks and hidden murals downtown

I offer location suggestions for each session based on your style and vision.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • What should I bring?

    • Bring a few outfits, any props you love, water, and good energy!

  • Can I include family or pets?

    • Yes! I love including parents, siblings, or pets for a few images.

  • What if it rains?

    • We'll reschedule or pivot to a covered location if needed.

  • When will I get my photos?

    • You'll get a sneak peek within a few days and your full gallery in 3 weeks.

  • Do I get digital images?

    • Yes, plus, there is the option to order prints and albums directly from your gallery.


Plattsburg MO Senior Photographer

Black and white photo of back of graduate.


Booking Is Now Open for Senior Sessions in 2025

If your student is graduating in 2025, now is the time to book. I only take a limited number of seniors each year to ensure a personalized experience. Once my calendar fills, I won't be able to squeeze in more.

Let's make your senior portraits more than just pictures. Let's tell your story.

Client Love:

"Merry captured our daughter’s spirit so perfectly. Every photo feels like her. The experience was easy, fun, and incredibly special. Worth every penny." – Sarah T., Liberty MO

Whether you're in Liberty, Parkville, Lee's Summit, or a small town like Plattsburg, your senior deserves photos that reflect who they are in this once-in-a-lifetime season. Let's create something meaningful together before the moment passes you by.

XO,

Merry

Thanks for reading about senior portraits in Kansas City! Tell me your favorite feature about this session in the comments below!

Do you think I might be the right senior photographer in Kansas City for you? If you’d like to check my availability, email me today (read: right this minute, friend! Dates go fast!)!

Want to peep more senior photo sessions in Kansas City? Check out Leyton’s senior tennis photo session, or Eden’s sunrise senior session at Stocksdale Park!

family, senior photography, senior picturesMerry OhlerMerry Ohler Photographyfamily photographer, kansas city photographer, senior photographer kansas city, senior pictures kansas city, senior photos kansas city, kansas city senior photographer, kansas city senior pictures, kearney mo senior photographer, liberty mo senior photographer, parkville mo senior photographer, plattsburg mo senior photographer, st joseph senior photographer, north kansas city mo senior photographer, overland park ks senior photographer, mission ks senior photographer, independence mo senior photographer, blue springs mo senior photographer, lees summit senior photographer, excelsior springs mo senior photographer, leawood ks senior photographer, lawrence ks senior photographer, claycomo mo senior photographer, riverside mo senior photographer, gladstone mo senior photographer, lathrop mo senior photographer, lawson mo senior photographer, polo mo senior photographer, grandview mo senior photographer, lenexa ks senior photographer, cameron mo senior photographer, holt mo senior photographer, mosby mo senior photographer, richmond mo senior photographer, roeland park ks senior photographer, kansas city mo senior photographer, kansas city ks senior photographer, belton mo senior photographer, raymore mo senior photographer, bonner springs ks senior photographer, weston mo senior photographer, odessa mo senior photographer, wellington mo senior photographer, randolph mo senior photographer, westport mo senior photographer, shawnee ks senior photographer, olathe ks senior photographer, gardner ks senior photographer, lansing ks senior photographer, basehor ks senior photographer, louisburg ks senior photographer, buckner mo senior photographer, glenaire mo senior photographer, oak grove mo senior photographer, tonganoxie ks senior photographer, edgerton ks senior photographer, eudora ks senior photographer, saint joseph mo senior photographerComment