Graduation photos are more than just something to post. They are memories you can look back on, maybe even memories to show your future kids one day. I have never been the most comfortable in front of a camera, but this shoot felt right, and I am so happy I did it.
As a shy girl, it was important to me to find a photographer who could ease my nerves and make the experience feel natural instead of stiff or awkward. Having someone who gives direction made all the difference for me. Luckily, I know an amazing photographer: @marycathphoto.
If you are planning your own graduation shoot, here are a few things I learned along the way. If you attend UCF in sunny Florida, don’t book your session in April or May unless you are prepared to be sweating through your makeup. The weather is no joke. My session was in early February, and it was perfect. We shot from about 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., right before sunset, and the lighting was soft and flattering without being too harsh.
I also recommend bringing props like flowers or even your pet if you can. They help you feel more natural and give you something to do with your hands, which is a lifesaver if posing is not your strong suit. Order your stole early and consider making a vision board or Canva board ahead of time so you and your photographer are on the same page. Also, bring an extra bag for shoes, makeup touch-ups, or little extras. You will thank yourself later.
Now for the fun part, the poses and locations that made the shoot.
- John C. Hitt Library Pose
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This one is a personal favorite. Pulling a book from the shelf or looking off in the distance made for some really cute academic photos.
Mary Cath @marycathphoto - Nails, Dress, and Stole
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A more editorial-style photo that highlighted the coordination of my look, from the polka-dot nails to the dress and stole.
Mary Cath @marycathphoto - Front of the Library Cap Moment
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This one was completely spontaneous, but it ended up being one of my favorite shots. I felt like it was unique and something I hadn’t seen yet.
Mary Cath @marycathphoto - Flowers as Props
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Flowers were honestly a game-changer. They helped me move naturally, kept my hands busy, and made me feel less stiff in front of the camera.
Mary Cath @marycathphoto - UCF Bridge Near Student Union
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A classic campus shot using the stole and flowers again. Props like this make every location feel more intentional and elevated.
Mary Cath @marycathphoto - Full-Body Bench Moment
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A simple but powerful shot that captured the full dress and let me really take in the moment. I couldn’t believe I’m really graduating.
Mary Cath @marycathphoto - Palm Tree Row
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Located near the accounting building, this one screams University of Central Florida. It gave the photos a very classic UCF feel.
Mary Cath @marycathphoto - Rustic Wall Outside Foxtail Café
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A more casual full-body pose that balanced out the more polished shots.
Mary Cath @marycathphoto - Fun Jog Across the Road
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Not perfect, but a great in-the-moment memory. The movement made this one another personal favorite.
Mary Cath @marycathphoto - Nicholson School Stairwell
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This location gave unique lighting and a creative backdrop that felt a little different from the rest of the shoot. I was really feeling myself here, but that’s the point!
Mary Cath @marycathphoto - Flowing Dress in the Sunlight
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This shot felt like the perfect mix of movement and emotion. It captured that feeling of stepping out of your comfort zone and fully leaning into the experience.
Mary Cath @marycathphoto
Bonus Locations I wish I had included
- Reflecting Pond
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Go at a quieter time if you can, so you are not worried about people watching.
- The Knight Statue
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A must for any Knight and a very iconic graduation shot.
Marycathphoto via Instagram - Pet moment
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This is such a fun and personal idea if you want something a little more unique.
- Stadium Shots
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A classic football moment that really brings the school spirit.
Marycathphoto via Instagram
At the end of the day, the goal of these photos was to have fun, be creative, and capture something real. The best photos are not always the perfectly posed ones. They are the ones where you are laughing, moving, or just being yourself.
Let your personality shine through every shot. Don’t be afraid to go full glam, run across campus, or laugh until it feels a little ridiculous. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.