Memorialize Graduation Day with Photography
Photography is a daily warm hug that reminds us of the big events in our lives. That’s how I know you are going to want some great photos of this milestone occasion. So will your graduating Gator. You’ll want a balance of family photos, grad (and friends) photos, and photos that include UF’s beautiful campus…their home for the last four years. They’ll want pictures of the place and time that will remain with them wherever they go from here.
Where to Start?
Start by deciding if you (or they) want to book a photographer to take pictures ahead of time. Personally, I would rather invest in these photos more than just about any other graduation cost. You’ll find that many students (particularly photography enthusiasts or photojournalism majors) gladly offer their photography services at reasonable prices. Your student may know some of them from their circle of friends. These photographers, student or professional, try to take a wide range of personality-filled pictures around campus in the days before graduation, and their ability to relate to your student and their common experience really lends to the emotional quality of the photos.
One of my favorite photos of my daughter and a few of her besties (they shared the cost of the photographer) was taken on the football field. There’s nothing more iconic on the UF campus than The Swamp itself. And, of course, everyone wants a picture in front of Albert and Alberta, so the crowds there will be massive. Encourage your student to book any photo session early in the morning to avoid the worst crowding and hottest weather. I’d also suggest a short chat beforehand with the photographer to plan for preferred photo sites (besides the usual ones). Is there a special place or building on campus that your grad wants to be captured in their photo story? And what about props? For example, is your graduate a musician who never goes anywhere without their instrument?
The Big Day
At the risk of advice too basic, make sure your phones, cameras, video recorders, etc. are all fully charged! Too many times, in all the hustle and bustle, parents forget to charge their devices and wind up not capturing that special moment…or have enough charge for the many, special moments. Also, try to arrive on the scene somewhat ahead of time for those family pics with your student adorned in cap and gown. If you leave it for right before or directly after the ceremony, you will be one of many among the throngs. That’s what everyone else will do, and you will literally wait in theme-park-like lines to snap a hurried few by the famous statue and sites.
Some Popular Photographers
If you are looking for photographers, students and other parents recommend the following:
- Alison Frank Photography
- Amy Xie – A graduate of UF, Amy has been shooting grad photos for a while and is highly recommended.
- Ben Cabral Photography
- Footstone Photography
- Helen Jay Photography
- iP Photography
- Maia Schulte
- Matt Pendleton Photographer – specializes in grad photos. He offers two packages and can provide rush processing.
- Pixl Photography
- R.Weber Photography
- Tommy Wolfe Photography
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