Written by:  Jude Bokovoy

For the graduating senior class, the time has come where many get professional pictures taken to commemorate the milestone and to share with friends and family. There is more time and effort put into the act than one may think. Although it is mid April, many graduates have been overwhelmed with the feeling that it might be too late to schedule with a local photographer. Whether or not this is true or one already has a grasp on the process, here are some things to keep in mind.

The photographer — Look into one’s options, friends, family or a professional photographer. No matter who it is, think about the pictures that one truly wants. Think about the style of photography. Does one want them to be highly edited, bright and crisp? These are some of the many aspects to think about when selecting a photographer.

Time frame — Now that caps and gowns are in one’s hands, so is the timing of the photoshoot. Weather, flowers and atmosphere vary within the months leading up to graduation. Make sure to look into the best time to take photos to determine what lighting will be best. 

Tester photoshoot — Instead of relying on one person on one day to grant one all of their graduation photo desires, take matters into one’s own hands. Doing a tester photoshoot beforehand can ensure what poses and outfits are best before the big day. 

People one is taking pictures with — Does one want to have photos with a few of their closest friends or take it on solo? Either way, make sure it is what one wants to do. It’s not anyone else’s decision to make. As long as one is happy with the photos that could be on one’s professional desk for decades, that is all that matters.

Locations — What campus locations are meaningful? Is it where one took their favorite classes? Or where one spent time with friends? Wherever it may be, make sure to include them in one’s photoshoot. 

Graduation day — There are plenty of opportunities to take photos at graduation. This is the perfect time to take photos with friends if they did a solo photoshoot. 

Contact the author at howllifestyle@mail.wou.edu