Senior Pictures at Hershey Gardens (What to Expect + Tips)
My Favorite Place To Photograph
If you’re planning senior pictures at Hershey Gardens, here’s exactly what to expect and how to make the most of your session.
I’m based in York, PA and photograph seniors throughout York and Lancaster County, and Hershey Gardens is one of the most consistent locations I use when someone from Central PA wants variety without a lot of stress.
If you’re planning senior pictures at Hershey Gardens, you’re choosing one of the best locations in Central PA. I photograph seniors from York and Lancaster here all the time, and it gives you so much variety in one session.
What to Expect During Your Session
Your session will be about and hour and a half to two hours, and we’ll move through a few different areas so your photos don’t all look the same.
At Hershey Gardens, that usually includes:
- a mix of greenery and open space
- stone walls and structured areas
- spots with flowers depending on the season
- bridges and walkways
- the unique trees
- fountains and ponds
You won’t be standing in one place the whole time. We’ll walk, stop, shoot, and keep moving so everything feels natural and efficient.
How Many Outfits to Bring
I recommend three outfits.
- one casual outfit
- one slightly dressier option
- something fun
Keep colors simple so they work with the location instead of competing with it. I love sending out my Senior Lookbook to my clients before the session so they can get a good feel of what works well and what DOESN’T.
The Senior Lookbook is sent to your senior after booking. It is filled with a ton of info including:
- Outfit Insperation
- Accessories and Props
- Where to shop
- and More!
Best Time of Day
Lighting makes a big difference.
I schedule most sessions at in the evening, about an hour before sunset. That’s when the light is softer and more even. But because Hershey has set hours for open and close I always book as late in the date as possible.
Midday can work as well, but it’s harsher and limits where we can shoot.
What Parents Usually Ask
Here are the questions I get the most:
How long does it take?
Between 1.5 and 2 hours.
Do we need a permit?
No! But you will need to purchase your tickets at the front desk. Only $17.50 per person. Bring the whole fam!
Can we bring multiple outfits?
Yes—two is ideal. There are several bathrooms throughout the gardens to change in. Comfortable shoes for walking is highly suggested. You can easily change when we are ready to shoot.
What if they’re not comfortable in photos?
That’s normal. I guide the entire session so you’re not left guessing what to do. It is all about having fun and getting them out of their shell. Which usually only takes about 15 minutes or so.
How to Get the Best Results
A few simple things make a big difference:
- choose outfits ahead of time (don’t decide last minute). That just causes more stress.
- avoid bold patterns or logos
- plan for clean shoes (you’d be surprised how often this comes up)
- trust the process and keep things simple
You don’t need to overthink this. It is always suggested that you send me photos of what you are considering before you make the decision. I can let you know if there is anything that WON’T photograph well.
Location Variety Without Extra Travel
One of the biggest benefits of Hershey Gardens is how much variety you get in one place.
We can go from:
- greenery
- to structured architecture
- to water features
- to stone and brick baths
- to the beautiful flowers in bloom
without needing to drive anywhere.
That keeps your session simple and your gallery full!
Add-On: Mini Family Session
A lot of my senior clients choose to add on a short family session—and honestly, it’s one of the best decisions you can make while you’re already here.
We’re already in a beautiful location. Everyone’s dressed. Hair and makeup are done. You’re feeling good. So instead of trying to plan a completely separate family session later… we just build it right into this one.
It’s quick, relaxed, and doesn’t take away from your senior photos at all.
Because this season? It’s a big one.
You’re about to have a senior… and life is about to shift a little. Having updated photos of your whole family during this time is something you’ll be really glad you didn’t skip.
Serving York & Lancaster Seniors
I’m based in York, PA and photograph seniors throughout York and Lancaster County, including Hershey, Lititz, and Lancaster.
If you’re trying to decide on a location, Hershey Gardens is a solid choice if you want something clean, consistent, and easy to work with.
Ready to Book Your Senior Pictures?
If you’re planning senior pictures at Hershey Gardens, this is one of the easiest locations to get a great result without overcomplicating anything.
April 21, 2026
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