When you’re planning your Clemson graduate portrait session, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to book a weekday or weekend slot. Both options have their advantages, and the right choice really depends on your priorities and schedule! Let me break down the pros and cons of each so you can decide what works best for YOU.
Weekend Sessions: The Popular Choice
Weekend sessions are incredibly popular, especially with students who have packed weekday schedules full of classes, labs, and part-time jobs. Here’s what makes weekends appealing:
The Pros: You won’t have to worry about missing classes or rushing from campus commitments. You can take your time getting ready without the stress of a tight schedule. If you want family members to join for some portraits, weekends make it easier for parents who work during the week to be there. Plus, you can really relax and enjoy the experience without thinking about what assignment is due tomorrow!
The Cons: Weekend sessions are in HIGH demand and book up quickly, so you’ll need to reserve your spot further in advance. Clemson campus can be busier on weekends with campus tours, events, and other activities happening. Popular spots like Bowman Field might have more people around, which means we sometimes need to wait for clear backgrounds. Weekend dates also tend to fill up first, especially during peak seasons like fall!
Weekday Sessions: The Hidden Gem
Weekday sessions don’t get as much attention, but they come with some really great advantages that might surprise you!
The Pros: Campus is typically much quieter during weekday afternoons, especially if we can schedule around class times. You’ll have those iconic Clemson locations almost to yourself, which means less waiting and more shooting time! Weekday slots tend to have better availability, so if you’re booking closer to your desired timeframe, you’ll have more options. The relaxed, quieter atmosphere often helps students feel more comfortable and natural in front of the camera.
The Cons: You might need to work around your class schedule or take time off from work or other commitments. If you’re hoping to include family members who work traditional hours, coordinating schedules can be trickier. Some students feel rushed if they have other obligations before or after the session.
How to Decide What’s Right for You
Choose a weekend session if:
- Your weekday schedule is packed with classes and you can’t easily take time off
- You want your family to participate in some portraits
- You prefer having the entire day free without other commitments
- You’re planning well in advance and can secure your preferred date
Choose a weekday session if:
- You have flexibility in your schedule or can skip a class
- You want a quieter, more private experience on campus
- You’re booking closer to your desired timeframe and weekends are full
- You prefer a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer people around
- You’re looking for last-minute availability
My Honest Recommendation
If your schedule allows for it and you’re comfortable taking a few hours on a weekday, I often recommend weekday afternoon sessions! The quieter campus makes for a more relaxed experience, and we can move through locations more efficiently without crowds. That said, I’ve captured absolutely stunning portraits on both weekdays and weekends, so there’s truly no wrong choice here!
The most important thing is choosing a time when you can be present, relaxed, and excited about your session. Whether that’s a peaceful Wednesday afternoon or a fun Saturday morning, we’ll make it work beautifully!
Pro Tips for Either Option
For weekend sessions: Book 2-3 months in advance to secure your preferred date, and be flexible with your time slot if possible. Earlier morning sessions tend to have fewer crowds than mid-afternoon.
For weekday sessions: Choose a day when you don’t have major exams or deadlines looming. You want to be able to fully enjoy the experience without stress about what’s coming next!
Still Not Sure?
Let’s chat about your schedule and what would work best for you! I’m happy to talk through your options and help you find the perfect timing for your Clemson graduate portraits. Whether you choose a weekday or weekend, I promise we’ll create stunning images that celebrate this incredible milestone!
Ready to book your session? Contact me today and let’s get your perfect date on the calendar, whether that’s a quiet Tuesday afternoon or a beautiful Saturday morning. I can’t wait to capture your Clemson graduate portraits!
