Spring in New York City is the most sought-after time for graduation photos—and for good reason. Cherry blossoms, soft morning light, and the energy of the season make it the perfect backdrop for senior portraits. And yes, the obvious answer: It’s when the majority of students graduate from NYC’s countless colleges and universities. Recently, I photographed five undergraduates from New York University (NYU) in Washington Square Park, capturing a mix of individual portraits, group photos, and candid moments that reflect both their friendships and their individual personalities.

Why Morning is the Best Time for Senior Portraits

We scheduled this session early in the morning—and that decision made all the difference. Here’s why morning sessions work best:

#1 REASON - No crowds, especially important in a busy location like Washington Square Park
#2 REASON - More flexibility to shoot at multiple spots without interruptions from people passing by, sitting in the background, and whatever else NYC can throw at us.
Soft, flattering light - ideal for skin tones and no harsh shadows

For anyone planning graduation photos in NYC during peak spring season, early morning is key to getting those clean, editorial-style images.

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Capturing Individual & Group Graduation Portraits

Photographing five seniors together was a lot of fun! It allowed for a dynamic and versatile gallery. During this session, we focused on both individual portraits, group photos, and posed vs candid moments with varying looks feels; gown on, gown off, holding gown, walking, posed, and cap in hand.

Individual Senior Portraits

Each graduate had time for solo portraits highlighting their personality, style, and academic achievement.

Locations

We captured all throughout Washington Square Park and the surrounding area. I was mindful to get those iconic shots with the arch, but I also maintained a true Spring look with blossoming trees.

Book Your Session Today!

Ready to celebrate your graduation with stunning professional photos? As a dedicated professional graduation photographer in NYC, I’ll guide you through every step—from location scouting, to selecting the right time of the day for lighting and crowds, to helping you pose.