Graduation Vs Senior Photos: What's the Difference?

Graduating is a huge milestone, and capturing this moment with professional photography is a great way to celebrate your achievements.

BRANDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Kate Jenkins

2/28/2025

Graduating is a huge milestone, and capturing this moment with professional photography is a great way to celebrate your achievements. However, many people aren’t sure whether they need graduation photos, senior photos, or both. While these sessions may seem similar, they serve different purposes and have unique styles. If you're in Cache Valley, Utah, and wondering which session is right for you, here’s what you need to know.

What Are Senior Photos?

Senior photos are typically taken before or at the beginning of a student’s final year of high school or college. These images focus on showcasing the senior’s personality, interests, and future aspirations.

Key Features of Senior Photos:

  • Personalized Locations: Taken at meaningful places like Logan Canyon, USU’s campus, or even a favorite hangout spot in Cache Valley.

  • Varied Outfits: Multiple outfit changes to show different aspects of the senior’s personality and style.

  • Props & Hobbies: Often include sports equipment, musical instruments, books, or other items that represent the senior’s passions.

  • Relaxed & Fun Atmosphere: More creative and stylized poses to highlight individuality.

Senior photos are often used for yearbooks, graduation announcements, and social media. They are a way to celebrate who you are before moving on to the next phase of life.

What Are Graduation Photos?

Graduation photos are taken at the end of a student’s senior year, usually in the weeks leading up to or right after graduation day. These images celebrate the achievement of completing high school or college and often have a more formal feel. Typically This is the photoshoot where you will be wearing your cap and gown!

Key Features of Graduation Photos:

  • Cap & Gown Focus: The classic graduation look, often taken on campus or at iconic locations like Old Main at USU.

  • Diploma or Class Ring: Props that emphasize the accomplishment.

  • Family & Friends: Graduation sessions may include loved ones to commemorate the occasion.

  • Timely & Formal: Often used for announcements, thank-you cards, and graduation party invitations.

Which Session Should You Choose?

If you want to document your journey and personality, a senior photoshoot is the way to go. If you’re looking for images that highlight your achievement and graduation day, a graduation photoshoot is ideal. Many students opt for both to fully capture their senior year experience.

Book Your Senior or Graduation Photoshoot in Cache Valley!

Whether you're looking for a creative senior photoshoot or classic graduation portraits, professional photography can help you preserve these special moments. If you're in Cache Valley, Utah, and need high-quality, personalized photos, let’s work together to create images that celebrate your achievements. Contact me today to book your session!