University Graduation photos: Memories that matter
Guest blog: Words by Emma Renée
My graduation day was something I had to wait through 5 years of university to get to. The time passed in a flash, but somehow at times also felt like it would never end.
My time at university spanned over the last part of my teen years and into my early twenties, and during that time I grew up a lot, learned a bunch, and met a load of people, including a few that I now consider some of my closest friends.
I was just 17 when I left home and travelled 3 hours south with my mum to Edinburgh, every inch of the car packed with my belongings. I still remember how I felt during those first few weeks of uni, the feelings of independence and endless possibility.
It’s a huge thing to dedicate several years of your life to the study of just one subject, but with each exam and assignment deadline that passed, I got one step closer to the end.
Celebrating graduation
When the time came for me to graduate, I was excited to have my whole family with me to celebrate.
I consider myself incredibly lucky to have so many amazing, talented people amongst my nearest and dearest. This includes, of course, Auntie Sus (Susan of Kingshill Studios).
Having also been lucky enough to work alongside her for many years at weddings, I feel like I have a special insight into how much dedication she puts into everything she does. I’ve seen how her personal and authentic style adds even more magic to the most special days in her client’s lives.
If you follow her on Facebook and Instagram I’m sure you’ve seen this first-hand. Her photographs speak for themselves! Anyone who has had photographs taken by Susan would say the same.
Precious family moments captured for eternity
I am so lucky to have had many of the most precious moments of my life documented by Auntie Sus. From milestone birthdays to precious family gatherings.
It was a no-brainer that I should ask her to document this next big milestone in my life. I wouldn’t have wanted anyone else to take my graduation photos.
My graduation pictures
I got super emotional the first time I saw the gallery of images she had taken at my graduation. Even knowing all-too-well how talented Susan is, I was still totally blown away by how beautifully she’d captured everything.
Growing up, I remember visiting friends’ houses and seeing their older siblings’ graduation photographs proudly displayed on the wall.
Being the oldest of the ‘kids’ in my extended family, I was the first to pack up and move away from home to take on this new challenge. I knew one day I wanted to have a similar photograph to share with my family one day, and now I do!
Here’s just one example, my smiling face proudly on display in my mum’s house.
On my own shelf, I’ve got a photograph of me and some of my closest friends from university. Each time I look at that photo, it’s a wonderful reminder of those amazing years we spent together. It’s been a while since we’ve all been together, which makes these memories all the more special.
The importance of printing photographs
Something I’ve definitely grown to appreciate over the last few years is the importance of actually PRINTING your photographs, rather than leaving them on a USB. Filling your home with precious memories means they’re a constant reminder of happy times.
Your graduation pictures are so important
Your graduation is a HUGE occasion. Your hard work has paid off, so it’s important to celebrate properly! Although recent times have resulted in a massive change in graduation ceremonies, the chance to properly commemorate the experience in a set of professional portraits shouldn’t be missed.
It’s now more important than ever to celebrate life in every way we can and find new ways to share these moments with our nearest and dearest.
Your graduation photographs become more and more precious as the years go by, and are the perfect gift to loved ones who I’m sure will be missing you loads throughout this time.
Authentic portrait photography
Anyone who’s familiar with Susan’s style of photography will know how well her authentic style translates to any occasion. My graduation photographs perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the day – I don’t ever think I’ve seen myself smile so big!
When the image above was taken, it was pouring rain (you can see everyone behind us rushing inside), but Susan worked her magic and it’s probably my favourite photo from the day. It’s been my phone screensaver for 2 years now and I still smile every time I see it!
Are you, or is someone in your family, graduating this year?
So, if you’re graduating this year and want to capture the occasion in the best way possible, get in touch with Susan! If a loved one is graduating, why not arrange a portrait session on their behalf?
I don’t think there’s a better gift than that of captured memories they can treasure for years to come.
Thanks again, Auntie Sus.
Love,
Em x