Then and Now Graduation Photo Idea: A Sentimental Twist You Can Recreate This Year
Photo Credit: Immanuel Offei
The Concept: Then and Now Graduation Photos
There’s something incredibly powerful about seeing a side-by-side photo of who you were and who you’ve become. The Then and Now concept encourages you to bring your earliest graduation photo and recreate it today. The magic lies in the contrast: your transformation, your resilience, your growth.
Whether it’s a kindergartener in an oversized gown or a middle school snapshot on your childhood porch, this idea helps reconnect you with where you started—and gives you space to celebrate how far you’ve come.
While we don’t formally advertise this as a service, we’re happy to help guide you through recreating your own Then and Now moment—or to include it as a creative twist in your personalized session.
Why It Works
Visual storytelling – Captures a graduation journey in one powerful image.
Emotional connection – Especially meaningful for families and parents.
Social media friendly – Ideal for reels, announcements, and memory walls.
Legacy-building – Creates keepsakes that last well beyond the graduation party.
Personal Reflection
As a photographer, I often reflect on my own journey through images. I love how I can take accountability by looking through my pictures on social media. I can literally see how far I’ve progressed this month and reflect on how much I’ve grown in the year. Taking pictures almost daily has allowed me to track my progress not only in my photography but in my health, writing, networking, business management, and advertising. It's the only time instant gratification actually feels positive—because I'm watching my own story unfold, one image at a time.
That’s the heart of this idea. Your graduation is a chapter in that visual autobiography.
How to Recreate a Then and Now Graduation Photo
Find Your Original Graduation Photo – Whether it’s printed or digital, choose a photo from an early milestone.
Match the Pose and Details – Think about expression, outfit elements, or setting.
Select the Perfect Location – Revisit the school or front yard where it began—or recreate the vibe on your college campus.
Add Meaningful Props or People – Use your diploma, pets, childhood toys, or invite family members to join.
If you'd like support, we’re happy to incorporate this concept into your professional shoot.
Top Graduation Photo Locations in Southern California
Los Angeles County
UCLA (View) – Royce Hall and Powell Library create an iconic academic backdrop.
USC (View) – Alumni Park and Bovard Auditorium offer classic grad vibes.
Cal State LA (View) – Hilltop views, fountains, and bold architecture.
Orange County
UC Irvine (View) – Modern lines at the Student Center and lush landscapes in Aldrich Park.
Cal State Fullerton (View) – Titan Walk is perfect for both solo and family photos.
Chapman University (View) – Beautiful historic red brick buildings and shaded staircases.
Inland Empire
UC Riverside (View) – Bell Tower and Botanic Gardens offer serene backdrops.
Cal State San Bernardino (View) – The university sign and green spaces are ideal for large group shots.
Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) (View) – Great for simplicity and clean design elements.
Temecula Area
Old Town Temecula (View) – Rustic storefronts and boardwalk charm.
Temecula Wine Country (View) – Golden hour vineyard light for timeless images.
Lake Skinner – Perfect for sentimental family-based recreations.
San Diego County
UC San Diego (UCSD) (View) – Geisel Library and coastal cliffs offer both classic and bold visual options.
San Diego State University (SDSU) (View) – Hepner Hall is a local favorite for its timeless arches.
Want Help Capturing It? Our Milestone Graduation Package is designed to be flexible enough to bring your ideas to life. While we don’t specifically market the Then and Now series, we’re always happy to bring creative visions into a session.
Milestone Graduation Package Includes:
1-hour personalized session
30 edited high-resolution images
One meaningful location in Riverside or San Bernardino County (no travel fee)
Sessions available in San Diego, Orange, or Los Angeles County (additional travel fee applies)
Two outfit changes (cap and gown + one personal look)
Can include family, friends, pets, props, or special locations
Let us know if you’d like to incorporate a Then and Now element—we’d be happy to make it happen.
Final Thoughts
Your graduation story deserves to be told in a way that reflects both where you started and who you’ve become. The Then and Now idea is a heartfelt concept you can do yourself—or let us help bring it to life with professional quality and care.
Whether you recreate a childhood photo with your family or want something more polished to frame, we’re here to help make your graduation unforgettable.
Book your Milestone Graduation Package today, and let’s celebrate how far you’ve come—one image at a time.
