Graduation Photos Don’t Have to Be Awkward — Here’s How We Make Them Fun
By Austin Durand | Durand Digital
Graduation shoots are special because there’s this relaxed, meaningful excitement throughout the session. Graduates can expect a fun, laid-back — yet exciting — walk around campus, reminiscing on the fact that they’re actually graduating. It’s a time to reflect on everything they’ve been through and start getting excited about what’s next.
I graduated in December 2023 and walked in Spring 2024. At the time, I was busy shooting everyone else’s senior portraits… and never did my own. It didn’t feel that important — it wasn’t my #1 priority. But now that some time has passed, I definitely regret it.
University was four years of my life, and I wish I had photos to remember it by. That’s a big part of why I love doing these sessions. In the moment, it’s fun and maybe doesn’t feel all that serious — but over time, those photos really start to mean something.
A lot of grads worry about posing — trust me, it’s not scary. I do something called “mirroring,” which basically means I’ll do the pose first while you watch (it might look super goofy, but it helps, I promise). Then you jump into a similar pose that feels natural and comfortable to you.
I also use fun prompts and movement to keep things feeling fresh. Nothing stiff. Nothing overly forced. I want you to feel confident — not awkward.
What to Bring
Your cap and gown — decorated if you want (though heads up, we could be tossing it)
An outfit or two that makes you feel confident and shows off your personality
Props or personal touches — sports gear, coffee, music things, your dog (yep, I’ve done one with a pup before). Seriously, bring whatever feels like you and we’ll incorporate it
A bottle of dry champagne for the shake — make sure it doesn’t have sugar. Trust me, you’ll thank me later
Comfy shoes — stilettos are totally cool if that’s your thing, but also bring a pair that won’t pierce the earth like a tent stake. Spring grass is soft, and that combo can be a headache
Friends or family — bring the people who hype you up! It’s a celebration, not just a photo shoot
The Champagne Mystery
There’s a particular brand of cheap champagne that’s especially explosive — I can’t remember the name, but I know it’s a screw cap. That stuff launches like a rocket. I’m planning to do a video one day where I test out different champagnes to finally track down the culprit. For science, of course.
Don’t worry though — we always save the champagne shake for the very end. They always pop and spray — some just more dramatically than others. Whether it’s a standard pop or a full-on eruption, it’s hilariously fun. And hey, if you end up smelling like a winery afterward… totally worth it.
Let’s Make It Happen
Graduating soon? Let’s celebrate it with photos that actually feel like you. Whether you’re in Lititz, Lancaster, or somewhere nearby — we’ll keep it relaxed, fun, and personal. We’ll laugh, walk around campus, and yes, probably end up covered in champagne.
