Next week kicks off a wave of graduation ceremonies in my neck of the woods. Our city is home to seven high schools and all of them are hosting commencement exercises following the Memorial Day weekend. That means shutterbugs and their cameras will be working overtime in the coming days.
While it’s tradition to snap shots of grads on commencement day, it’s also a good idea to take a few photos before the big event. This is especially true if you are planning to craft a graduation-themed scrapbook or feature pictures of your high school senior at a post-commencement party.
In order to showcase your student in the best possible light, it’s critical that you do some homework before taking aim. Make sure you have the right equipment needed to capture decent images. If you have a DSLR camera, remember to bring along a collection of lenses, a flash for fill light, and possibly a reflector depending on what time of day you are planning to take the photos.
Location is another important factor when taking pictures of grads. Select a spot where your student subject is most comfortable, but also a place that has decent lighting and picturesque backgrounds. If your photo subject is a huge sports fan, you might consider setting up a photo shoot at the high school field. Likewise, if your student is a dancer, you might take aim at a local studio. The key is to find a place that speaks to the graduate’s personality.
In regards to poses, it’s critical that you don’t force your subject into an uncomfortable position. Be mindful of posture and hand placement. In addition, you can mix up the angles by moving around. Drop to a knee or climb a stepstool and shoot down to make your photos pop. You could also add a few props to the shots, including a diploma or various medals or awards earned for academic or athletic achievement.
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