5 Things to Consider When Searching for a Graduation Portrait Photographer

From the endless hours of studying to the unforgettable memories made, the journey to graduation is nothing short of extraordinary. As you stand on the brink of a new chapter, preparing to toss your caps into the air, there are a few key considerations when it comes to hiring a graduation portrait photographer.

1. Finding the Perfect Photographer: Who’s the Right Fit?

Searching for the right graduation portrait photographer can feel like finding a needle in a haystack – overwhelming and daunting! When narrowing down your choices, analyze each photographer’s distinct style and envision yourself in those frames. Does their work resonate with you? Do their clients look comfortable? Do they feel like someone you’d want to befriend? Your chosen photographer should not only capture stunning images, but capture your essence and the importance of this milestone. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, your graduation day will be immortalized in a series of images that reflect your unique journey. If you click on a personal level AND love their portfolio, add them to your list!

2. Posing Predicaments: To Smile or Not to Smile?

We've all seen those cringe-worthy graduation photos where smiles seem forced and the posing looks stiff, but the right photographer will make you feel comfortable and allow you the freedom to open up, be yourself, and share your creativity! Who you work with should understand the art of natural posing and know how to guide you, showcase your personality, and ensure your photos exude authenticity. I accomplish this by taking the time to get to know my clients, calming their nerves, and make the experience enjoyable! It shouldn’t be a chore, but a time to celebrate this massive accomplishment and document a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

3. Styling Stumbles: Dress to Impress

Choosing the right outfit for your graduation portraits is crucial. You want to look stylish and put-together, find something timeless that you won’t cringe at down the line, and also feel like yourself! Collaborate with your photographer and listen to insight they may have on what will photograph well. As a photographer, I can help narrow down your choices based on colors that work well with the shoot location as well as what silhouettes are most flattering. It’s also never a bad idea to bring multiple outfits in case you want to change during your shoot!

4. Timing Tangles: Sending Out Announcements

Sending out graduation announcements is an art. Send them out too early and you risk being lost in the pre-graduation shuffle. Send them out too late and your grandma might miss the festivities. It is important to give yourself plenty of time to book the shoot, plan your outfits, get your gallery back, and design your announcements. I recommend booking your photographer first - graduation season is very busy so get yourself on the books ASAP.

Your photographer will work with you to capture images well in advance, giving you ample time to choose the perfect shot for your announcements. Discuss your timeline with your photographer so they can help you plan the perfect photo session to align with your announcement schedule.

5. The Cap and Gown Conundrum: When Will I Have Them?

Caps and gowns – the quintessential graduation attire. But what if you're unsure when you'll get your hands on them? Planning your photo session without these iconic garments can feel like trying to dance without music. Communicate with your photographer in advance and discuss any potential delays. Your photographer can help with a backup plan ensuring that even if the cap and gown are fashionably late, your photoshoot won't be compromised.

To sum up…

Make sure to carve out some time to capture this major life moment with a professional photographer. Select a photographer whose work resonates with you, who understands how momentous graduation is, and who you could see yourself getting a cup of coffee with. It is important to communicate openly with your photographer so they can guide you on posing, styling, and timeline. Your graduation portraits should not only reflect a special moment in life, but who you are as a human. This is the end of an era and the start of a new one - it’s a big deal and 1000% worth being captured. Here's to crossing the stage with style, grace, and the perfect photographer by your side!

Save this blog post for future reference, share it with fellow graduates, and let the countdown to graduation begin!

Am I the right fit for your graduation portraits? Let’s chat about next steps!