Creative graduation photoshoot ideas.
Learn more about capturing milestone moments, plus get some creative photoshoot ideas for all ages to inspire your next graduation session.
A graduation photoshoot is a fun way for a graduate and their family to celebrate important milestones and educational achievements. Discover inspiration for the earliest preschool moments to college ceremonies, and everything in between.
Preschool and kindergarten graduation.
While high school and college graduations are traditional milestone markers, photoshoots at a young age are certainly worthwhile — and fun, too. Graduation photos at this age help give kids an early sense of accomplishment and pride.
Here are a few ideas to get started:
- Child holding a chalkboard sign with a fun saying, such as “Kindergarten Bound!”
- White space for sharing a text overlay of what they want to be when they grow up.
- Graduate with props such as a cap and gown, plus colorful balloons.
High school graduation.
For many students, their time in high school is defined by the activities they were involved in, as well as the friends they made along the way. Keep this in mind when you plan the shoot with the graduate and their family.
To help spark creativity, try these out:
- Capture the graduate with props of their favorite activity, such as books or a baseball.
- Do a photoshoot with smoke effects in the school’s colors.
- Shoot an otherwise standard portrait-style session with a unique technique, like photographing through water-filled glasses.
College graduation.
These photoshoots provide a way to capture the college career on camera — a reminder of all those late nights studying, trying new things, and making memories. College graduation photos also make great personalized gifts for parents and grandparents.
Consider these ideas during your next session:
- The graduate blowing confetti directly into the camera.
- Action shot of throwing the cap (use a fast shutter speed).
- Portraits with dramatic shadows found on campus, such as those cast by buildings, sculptures, or through trees.
For even more inspiration, discover additional photography tips and techniques to try.
Explore everything you can do with Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.