If you’re a Hickman Kewpie (or the parent of one) starting to think about senior portraits, this guide is for you. David H. Hickman High School has one of the richest histories of any school in Columbia — and your senior year deserves photos that match that significance.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan a session you’ll be proud of for years to come.
When Should Hickman Seniors Book Their Photos?
The ideal booking window for Hickman seniors is spring of junior year through early summer before senior year — roughly April through July.
A few reasons this window matters:
- Yearbook deadlines. Hickman’s yearbook, The Cresset, has submission deadlines that typically fall in the early fall. Getting your senior portraits done over the summer gives you finished, edited images well before that window closes.
- Summer availability is limited. Senior portrait season is the busiest time of year for photographers. Popular dates — especially weekend evenings with good golden hour light — fill up fast. Booking in spring for a summer session gives you the best selection.
- More flexibility for planning. When you’re not rushing, you have time to think about locations, plan outfits, and make sure the session reflects your student’s personality rather than just checking a box.
If you’re already in senior year, you still have options. Reach out and we’ll figure out a plan that works for your timeline.
Best Locations for Hickman Senior Photos in Columbia, MO
Hickman is located in north-central Columbia, which puts it close to some great session spots — and a short drive from several more.
Downtown Columbia: Hickman’s urban location makes downtown a natural fit. Brick buildings, painted murals, covered walkways, and architectural textures create a backdrop that’s full of personality. Students who want something that feels contemporary and individualistic often love downtown for this reason.
Shelter Gardens: A few miles from Hickman, Shelter Gardens offers manicured flowerbeds, a gazebo, water features, and classic landscaping. It’s a timeless setting that photographs beautifully in any season. Ideal for students who want polished, elegant portraits.
Stephens Lake Park: A relaxed outdoor option with a natural lake backdrop, open grassy areas, and treeline framing. Great for students who want the outdoors without a full hiking session. The park works especially well in late afternoon light.
University of Missouri Campus: The Mizzou columns, Francis Quadrangle, and the surrounding red-brick campus make for a recognizable and meaningful Columbia backdrop. Many Hickman students have a connection to MU — either a family tradition or their own college plans — and it adds a personal layer to the session.
Rock Bridge Memorial State Park: A bit of a drive from Hickman, but worth it. The wooded trails, natural rock formations, and creek crossings make this one of the most photogenic locations in all of mid-Missouri. Perfect for outdoor-loving students.
What Should Hickman Seniors Wear?
Outfit planning matters more than most families realize going in. Here’s practical guidance:
Two outfits is the standard. One more formal (a dress, blazer, or something you’d wear to an event), one more personal (something that reflects your everyday style). This creates natural variety in your gallery without feeling forced.
Solid colors photograph better than busy patterns. Large graphics, bright logos, and tight geometric prints can pull the eye away from your face — which is the whole point of the session. Keep it simple.
Wear something that makes you feel like yourself. Stiff, uncomfortable, or “not really me” clothes show up in photos in ways you can’t always anticipate. The best portraits happen when the student is comfortable and confident.
Bring something meaningful. A sports uniform, an instrument, soccer/basketball, a jersey — props and accessories from your student’s activities make portraits personal and specific to this moment in their life.
Think about color relative to your location. Neutral tones are the safest choice across all locations. If you want to wear something bolder, we’ll talk through which locations that works best with.
Capturing Hickman Activities and Passions
Hickman has a long tradition of excellence in academics, athletics, arts, and extracurriculars — from Kewpie football and basketball to its nationally-recognized academic programs. Senior portraits are a chance to reflect that.
Bring a jersey, a debate trophy, a camera, a painting, a team photo — whatever has defined your experience at Hickman. These details transform a portrait session into something genuinely personal.
I’m happy to plan activity-focused portraits as part of any session. Just let us know at booking.
What Do Parents Need to Know?
Can parents come to the session? Yes. Parents are encouraged to be part of the session or bring a best friend.
How long does a session take? Sessions can run 1 to 2 hours depending on the package. I’ll give you a clear time estimate at booking.
When will we receive the photos? Edited galleries are typically delivered within 2 weeks of the session. If you have an earlier deadline (like a yearbook submission), let me know upfront and I’ll note that in your booking.
How much does it cost? Session packages vary. contact me directly and I’ll walk you through options based on your goals.
