the bh edit

The Senior Year To-Do List You Didn’t Know You Needed (for all the senior parents out there)

Olympia, Washington senior portrait session done at Tumwater falls park by Brittany Hanson Photography. Senior boy on a bridge with his hand lounged on the railing. The background is an arched bridge with lots of greenery around it.

You blinked… and suddenly it’s here.
The last first day. The last homecoming. The last everything.

Senior year sneaks up on parents in a way no one really prepares you for. You’re proud, excited, sentimental — and maybe a little overwhelmed wondering how to make the most of it all before your senior walks that stage.

So here’s my gentle reminder: you don’t need to do it all.
You just need to be present for what really matters.

Capture Who They Are Right Now – Book Their Senior Photos

Senior photos aren’t just about getting a pretty picture for the announcement.
They’re about freezing a season that’s about to change forever. That confident smile, the inside jokes that make them laugh mid-pose, the way they’ve grown into themselves.

If you can, book early. The best lighting, colors, and energy always happen when you’re not rushing to fit it in before graduation.

Start Collecting the Little Things

The ticket stubs. The old Polaroids. The half-scribbled notes from teachers.
Start tucking them away now. Not because you’ll need them later, but because someday you’ll want them.

Senior year flies by, but it leaves little treasures behind if you know where to look.

Celebrate the Ordinary

Not every moment has to be a big milestone.
The drive to school, the messy backpack, the “what’s for dinner?” after a long day — those are the ones that will hit you hardest when the house feels quieter.

Take a picture. Write it down. Laugh about it. That’s the good stuff.

Give Them Space to Grow

This year is full of “lasts” for you… but it’s full of firsts for them.
First college applications. First real steps into independence.
It’s okay to feel all the emotions and it’s okay to let them take the lead a little more.

Look Ahead (Just a Bit)

Graduation, announcements and graduation parties. They’ll sneak up faster than you think.
Make your lists, order what you can early, and give yourself permission to enjoy the chaos when the time comes.

A Little Note From Me

I get to meet a lot of seniors through my lens and trust me, this generation is something special. They’re bold, kind, creative, and ready for the world in ways that will surprise you.

So take the photos. Plan the celebration. Hug them tight.
And when it all feels like too much… just remember: you’re doing it right. 💛

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Olympia, washington + surrounding areas

@BRITTanyHANSONPHOTOGRAPHY

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