Graduation Day Photo Tips

Graduation Day sits high on the list of special days to record and remember. Amid the feelings of pride and bittersweet sadness (your grad has, after all, completed a big phase of her life and is moving onto the next), don't forget to photograph the faces, details, and overall scene.

Consider this post a gentle reminder to not leave photo planning to the last minute. Here are some tips to get some great shot of your grad, family, and friends on the big day—a day that is usually hectic and filled with crowds.

Number one, the basics. Get your camera ready. Charge or change batteries the day before the big day. Make sure your memory card is not full; delete some photos and carry a spare memory card in case you get carried away with photo ops. Go over your camera's operating procedures in all kinds of settings— bright daylight, indoors, twilight. Take some photos to make sure your camera is working well.

Take photos before the ceremonies begin. You'll want lots of candid shots of the day, sure, but you know you'll also want some nice portrait shots of your grad and the people who matter most to them. Get the full cap and gown shot, but also zoom in on your grad's face for a close-up portrait shot. This is also a good time to get photos of the grad with family members and friends if they are nearby before the crowded and hectic ceremony begins and the parties follow.

Photograph the scene. Before the ceremony begins, take shots of the school banner, the crowds assembling, and anything else that captures your eye. You may not be able to get the close-up action shot of your grad receiving her diploma that you want, so take plenty of scene shots, as well and before and after portraits of the grad. Which leads me to...

Know the rules. If you want to take photos during the ceremony, know the rules first. Some schools will prohibit flash shots during indoor ceremonies, which could mean terrible lighting and terrible results, depending on your camera. Also, since most point-and-shoot cameras do not have a range longer than about 10 feet, you've got to be positioned pretty close to the action to get a decent shot. If you've got a digital SLR and a zoom lens, you've got a better chance of getting in position to get a shot of your grad as she accepts her diploma, but don't count on it.

Go for the detail. Zero in on some details that tell the story of the day. A school banner. The empty seats on the field before Pomp and Circumstance plays. The ceremony program, particularly the page with your grad's name on it.

Capture the emotion. When the ceremony is over, take candid shots of your grad hugging friends, crying, smiling. Then think about the staged photos.

Take lots of photos. Of your grad with friends. With the family members who came to watch his big moment. Take them now because your grad and friends will quickly disperse to family celebrations and graduation parties.

Use your flash. Even on sunny days, you may need to use your flash outside to fill in shadows on photos of your posing grad and family and friends.

Any avid photographers who want to add their own experienced tips, please share!