Prop Ideas
One way to jazz up your graduation photos is through fun props. They can create some natural moments of laughter, show your interests, or even make memories! Here are some prop ideas for graduation photos that will help you capture this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
My Top favorites...
I. CHAMPAGNE
... or sparking grape juice! We will normally take photos popping the bottle at the end of the shoot because of the mess. Please make sure to bring something to carry/conceal the bottle (such as a bag) as we walk on campus! Also, consider bringing more than one bottle as popping it can be a scare the first time. Additionally, if you have photos on the WSU Pullman campus, we have been asked us not to pop bottles on the field (but this is something that could be done on the practice field).
II. Your Dog... please
Or honestly any pet they allow on campus. Photos with your pet alwayssss look cute. If you would prefer to not walk with them on campus for the whole session, arrange for them to be picked up or dropped off at the beginning or end!
III. Props from your major
A great way to celebrate your degree during your photos is to incorporate some props from your field of study! This can include books, a stethoscope, or even an apple for those going into teaching!
IV. Props that express YOU!
I love when people get creative with props. Bring things that you love and express who you are! I'd had people bring flowers- to taking pictures with their cars. If you want creative/aesthetic photos, do bring some props!
And some other ideas...
I encourage you to bring anything that you'd like to celebrate, such as cultural items, picture frames of loved ones, or flags. I also love balloons or flowers! For more creative photos (which I love more than anything), I've even had chairs be brought! If your play a sport, bring gear or your jersey. And of course, bring your decorated (or not decorated) cap, your gown, and any stoles and cords you have.
If you do wish to bring confetti- please bring a biodegradable one.
Timing your session: WSU Pullman (This is only for spring)
Another thing I'd like to mention is the timing of your session according to the places you'd like to take pictures on campus. Here are the best hours various places on campus:
Thompson flats + surrounding buildings: Earliest sessions of the day
The wall on Bohler (picture below): Before 11-12ish AM depending on sunrise time or the latest sessions (this wall does not look the same when the light shines on it!)
The art building (red wall): Afternoon sessions (wall looks very dark early in the morning and late in afternoon)
Game/practice field: All times of the day look great here honestly, but give different looks to the photos (but I prefer the afternoon or evening sessions). Reminder that the actual field being open is up to luck, but the practice field is open more often and looks very similar.
The trees on Terrell Mall (picture below): Looks great in all session times except early afternoon (where light is not on either side of the trees).
The atrium (aka the nipple of knowledge.. aka the library thing): Between 5-7pm or earliest sessions of the day
Wilson-short: All session times
Trees + logo in front of chinook: All session times
1-hour sessions can typically account for 3-4 of these locations. Furthur locations (like the cougar statue, the arch, or areas near the Spark) take up much more walking time and typically only allow for 2-3 locations.
