How do I take OSU grad photos that don’t feel posed?
The best OSU grad photos feel natural when the session is relaxed, guided, and focused on movement instead of stiff posing.
OSU grad photos with Aubrey & Anna just felt easy from the start. They’ve been friends since childhood, and you could tell right away. Nothing felt forced, nothing needed over-explaining. It just flowed.
That’s honestly the goal with every session I shoot.
We had about two hours together, which is usually my sweet spot for grad sessions. It gives us enough time to move around campus, hit multiple locations, and still keep everything feeling relaxed instead of rushed. You’re not watching the clock, you’re just enjoying it.
Where are the best places to take OSU grad photos?
The best places for OSU grad photos include Ohio Stadium, Mirror Lake, and the library area because they give a mix of iconic and scenic campus backdrops.
We started at the Ohio Stadium rotunda, which is one of the most classic spots on campus. If you’re doing grad photos at Ohio State, this is almost always on the list.
From there, we walked over to Mirror Lake, then finished near the library. I love shooting in that area because the architecture adds something a little different while still keeping that campus feel.
Most OSU grad sessions naturally flow through a few staple spots like the stadium, Mirror Lake, and the library. It gives you a mix of iconic locations and softer, more scenic backgrounds without trying too hard.
How do you pose for graduation photos if you feel awkward?
You don’t need to know how to pose for graduation photos—I guide you through everything using movement-based prompts so nothing feels stiff or awkward.
The number one thing people say before a session is, “I don’t know what to do with my hands.”
I promise you don’t need to figure that out beforehand.
I guide you through the entire session with prompts instead of stiff poses. We’re walking, linking arms, talking, laughing—there’s always some kind of movement happening so nothing feels frozen.
For hands specifically, I’ll have you hold your gown, adjust your cap, or just keep your hands moving in small ways. One random trick I use all the time is having you play with your fingers or rings. It sounds small, but it instantly relaxes everything.
And honestly, your grad cap does half the work for you. Holding it, tossing it, carrying it between shots—it naturally gives you something to do so your photos don’t feel posed.
Are champagne graduation photos worth it?
Champagne photos are absolutely worth it because they turn graduation photos into a celebration instead of just portraits.
Champagne photos are a must. No debate.
We’ll get the classic spray shot first, and then I usually call out “chug,” which turns into more of a cheers moment between you, your friends, and the camera. It feels way more like an actual celebration instead of a staged photo.
Those always end up being some of my favorites.
What should I wear for OSU grad photos?
The best outfits for OSU grad photos are simple, clean, and layered so they work well with your cap and gown while still feeling like you.
They both wore white mini dresses, which is a go-to for a reason. It’s clean, simple, and layers perfectly with your gown and stole.
They added their OSU stoles, which pulled everything together without taking away from the overall look.
If you want a second outfit without fully changing, I always recommend layering. A crewneck or alumni sweatshirt over your dress gives a more relaxed, college feel and works really well for movement shots or champagne photos.
When is the best time for OSU grad photos?
The best time for OSU grad photos is during golden hour because the light is soft, warm, and flattering on campus.
We shot this during spring golden hour in Columbus, and the lighting was exactly what you want. Soft, even, and warm without being harsh.
Golden hour just makes everything feel better. The light, the mood, the overall vibe—it all comes together.
