Milestone Moments: Capturing a Friend’s Graduation Journey
Project Detail
Role
Duration
Tools
Graduation Portraits at Oregon State University
Photographer
Creative Director
June 2025
(1.5 hrs)
Canon EOS Rebel T8i DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens
Capturing more than
a moment —
preserving a milestone.
Graduation is more than a ceremony — it’s a celebration of growth, perseverance, and new beginnings. I had the honor of photographing my friend’s graduation, capturing not just posed portraits, but the joy, pride, and candid emotions of a significant life chapter. This collection reflects my eye for meaningful storytelling through photography and my dedication to making personal moments timeless.
Discovered
I discovered that environmental factors like wind, harsh sunlight, or uneven lighting can easily disrupt a shot. I also realized how much a subject’s comfort level influences the overall outcome of the photos.
Learned
I learned to look for soft, even lighting to avoid facial shadows and distractions, and how to guide poses while creating a relaxed atmosphere to help the subject feel confident and natural.
Takeaway
I used warm tones in editing to create a sun-kissed, celebratory look. This project reinforced the importance of timing, environment, and communication in capturing meaningful, polished portraits.