How to have a great grad session at UCLA.

I love shooting graduation sessions on campus at UCLA. Walking the campus with soon-to-be graduates, chatting about their experiences and the relationships they built in higher education is a joy. After working on campus for years, I’ve learned a few things that you can do to make sure you have the best grad session possible. TL;DR - PLAN AHEAD

Get started early! January is the best time to start planning your session. Talk to your friends about planning a group session. Look at your exam schedule for the next two quarters to figure out the least stressful time for photos.

Scheduling your session depends on having your sash and other regalia. It can take six weeks to receive your order once it is submitted.

Place your order in January or February. https://www.uclastore.com/students/students-graduation-resources/graduation-essentials?page=1

Want photos at Bruin Bear, Royce Hall, Janss Steps? Book in March. The closer your session is to graduation, the crazier campus gets. There can be a dozens of people in the background of your photos in May and June. Scheduling early means that we can cover more of the popular locations and be sure to grab the spots that you love. In town for Spring Break? You will have campus to yourself for some epic shots.

Will you be in town after graduation? That is a GREAT time for photos. The campus has been beautified for commencement and it is wonderfully quiet. Also, you are not juggling class, interviews and activities.

Be authentic. You don’t have to wear a white dress or dark slacks with a white button down. Yes, that is the most-common styling choice. Are you all about bold colors? Get that floral dress. Do you have an artist’s vibe? Khaki’s and Birkenstocks might be the best choice. And of course, break out those shades!

Think about styling in advance. It can be hard to find the perfect outfit that feels authentic to you. Start shopping early, try everything on, break in those shoes. Feeling comfortable and confident shines through in your images.

Think out of the box. Did you spend hours studying in Powell? Is there a spot you regularly meet up with your friends? Do you love the sculpture garden? Let’s make your session unique to you and your experiences.

Need a LinkedIn photo? Let’s knock that out during your session. Head into your professional life with a photo that shows your professional side.