This graduation season was absolutely incredible. I was able to work with a lot of my friends, but also worked with a lot of new faces. One of my favorite things is meeting new people through photography. Everyone should pick up a side hustle ASAP. I love mine.
Now, I was a nervous wreck for a majority of my shoots because it’s still surreal that people trust me to take their pictures. These are big moments and being able to help someone capture them is a big undertaking. Maybe I’m just over-exaggerating, but I take it so seriously!
Let’s get into my favorite shots of the season. You can always check out more of my work at photographybygcw.com or on my Instagram [@gabbywhiten]. Now, let’s get the photos which aren’t in any particular order; I love them all!
1. All That Glitters | Resha
Resha’s shoot was one of my last ones where I was admittedly a little more confident with posing and directions. I wanted to try out a glitter shot so badly, but it’s pretty involved and can take a lot of time to perfect. We surprisingly didn’t have to wait to use the old well and had a lot of time left over, so I figured we should at least try it. So glad we did because it’s so fun and quirky!
2. Smize | Dara
I’ve seen this pose done on Pinterest a million times, but it’s so fun and sassy which I think fit Dara! This was from my first shoot this season so I definitely was happy with how great it came out!
“Feel free to smile behind the cap if you need to, just look happy with your eyes!” -Me
“Oh, so smize!”- Dara
3. Look back at it. | Dielle
I couldn’t help myself with the title of this shot. I love a good over the shoulder shot and Master’s students were made for them to show off their hoods. Dielle just finished up her Master’s in Social Work and it was so nice to talk about her future plans and get to know her. Such a sweet gal. Also, the Bell Tower was glowing this morning.
4. The Gates | Dielle
Another one of my favorite shots came from Dielle’s session because of the new location. I’d taken so many Bell Tower, Old Well, and seal shots that I was getting bored. I found this cool gate outside the Social Work building and knew we needed some shots with it.
5. McDonald’s Run | Allie
Allie is my girl!! When she threw out the idea of posing at McDonald’s, I was all over it. This was just such a fun location! We got some shots inside and outside, but overall I like this shot from inside. I think I was really able to capture the true McDonald’s aesthetic.
6. Divided | Luke & Rachael
Luke and Rachael were hilarious. The energy was great throughout the entire shoot even when we had to break to head out to Raleigh to shoot on State’s campus. My favorites were probably when they were both in their gowns! We all know which school is the best though, sorry Luke.
7. She Thicc | Anna
Her words, not mine. Anna really wanted to pose with her thesis and I would never deny someone the chance to pose with their work of literary achievement. Right before I captured this candid, Anna’s exact words were “she thicc”. Truly inspirational.
8. Off Guard | Amanda
Amanda’s session was full of twists and turns. We went searching for a Carolina blue door only to find that the photographer had color corrected a grey door. The architecture was still pretty cool in my opinion so I suggested we shoot in front of it anyway. Glad we did that because the photos at this location were so pretty.
9. R.I.P. | Persis & Co.
My friend Persis fell into a fire when we won the Natty. So naturally, the group came to our session with a slew of props in hand to help immortalize the tragic moments. Overall, the energy was good and the jokes were funny. I captured a lot of candids and personality packed pictures!
10. Momma, I Made It | Myranda
Myranda and I had a great time with our mini session at the Old Well capturing some quick photos in the cap and gown! I love a classic candid with the Old Well chilling in the background. Love, love, love.
Want to bookmark these pose ideas for your own graduation shoot? Use the image below!
