7 Tips for DIY Grad Photos - Grad Photos Kitchener-Waterloo

Here are my 7 of my favourite tips for DIY grad photos that look amazing!

This year’s grads deserve something special and unique after the craziness of the past year. Why not head out with your grad and capture some really special and unique grad photos?

1. Pick a great spot!

You really can’t go too far wrong with nature as a backdrop. As long as there’s room to put some distance between your grad and what’s behind them, you can choose just about anywhere green - a park, trail, schoolyard, or green space near you will be great!

2. Get that portrait look.

Speaking of distance between the grad and the background, did you know that’s the key to that blurred-out background look that makes the person in the portrait stand out? The further your grad is from what’s behind them, the more blurry the background becomes.

3. Strike a great pose! 

Here are a couple of examples of my favourites. These poses can be adapted to all gender expressions, generally by changing the position of the hands. Usually, if you give your grad the first part of the instruction, you’ll see what comes naturally to them. Whether it’s hands together, in a pocket, or on their hip, follow what’s natural for them. If they don’t know what to do with their hands (which is pretty common!) I’m including some ideas with each pose.

Pose #1

Have your grad sit on a rock, step, or bench. Ask them to put both elbows on their knees, and clasp or dangle their hands loosely. They should keep their back straight, and lean forward slightly. Alternatively, they can place both hands on their knees, or one elbow and one hand. Bonus pose that works for a more feminine look: right elbow on the knee, and the left hand holding the right shoulder (or vice versa).

Pose #2

Have your grad stand, and angle their body slightly to one side. You can achieve this by posing them, or if they’re feeling awkward, just have them walk toward you. One hand in the pocket (thumb out) or on the hip, and the other hand either in the pocket, loosely at their side, in their hair, on the back of their neck…lots of options with this one.

4. Celebrate something they love!

Include musical instruments, sports gear, favourite books, or anything else that has been important to them throughout their high school journey.

5. Be sun smart!

When you’re looking to create great photos, a bright sunny day isn’t always your friend. Head out on an overcast day, or aim for the hour before sunset, when light and shadows won’t be so harsh.

6. Get in close!

Avoid using the zoom on your phone, and just get closer with your feet instead. This way, you’ll keep the best possible quality in your image, and you can print your grad photos for framing and sharing!

7. Let them dress like themselves!

This is a great way to capture their style and look at this moment in time. If they want to do a prom look and an everyday look, great! Don’t forget those sports jerseys, school spiritwear, or even their work uniform. It’s all memory capturing and will be fun to look back on later.

Would you rather have someone else take care of the grad photos for you?

I love working with teens to capture photos that shine with personality and celebrate their accomplishments. Head over to www.erinwattphotography.com/contact and get in touch with me!