The Ultimate Guide to Texas State Graduation Photos
Graduating from Texas State University is more than receiving an Academic degree. It's the celebration of years of dedication, growth, friendships, and unforgettable memories. From late nights studying in the Alkek Library to cheering on the Bobcats. Your college journey deserves to be documented in a way that reflects everything you've accomplished.
Professional Texas State graduation photos are about more than wearing a cap and gown. They tell your story, celebrate your achievements, and preserve one of the most exciting milestones of your life.
Whether you're planning to use your images for graduation announcements, gifts for your family, LinkedIn, or beautiful artwork for your home, this guide will help you prepare for an unforgettable graduation session.
As a Texas State graduation photographer, I've created this guide to answer the questions graduates ask most. From the best places on campus for photos to what to wear, when to book, and how to make the most of your session.
"Your degree is a once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment. Your photos should be planned with the same care."
Jessie Reyes
Why Graduation Photos Matter
Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. It's a moment you've worked toward for years, and it's one that deserves to be remembered long after commencement day.
Your graduation portraits become more than social media posts. They become keepsakes for your parents, artwork displayed in your home, gifts for grandparents, and reminders of everything you've accomplished.
Unlike the quick snapshots taken after the ceremony, a dedicated graduation session allows you to slow down, celebrate your journey, and create portraits that truly reflect your personality. You'll have time to visit your favorite spots around campus, change outfits, and capture a variety of images that you'll treasure for years to come.
When Should You Book Your Texas State Graduation Photos?
One of the biggest mistakes graduates make is waiting until their cap and gown arrives to start planning their graduation photos. By that time, many photographers are already booking their busiest dates, especially during December and spring graduation seasons.
I recommend booking your Texas State graduation photos at least three months in advance. This gives you time to choose the perfect date, plan your outfits, and create a stress-free experience leading up to graduation.
Your graduation portraits are an important milestone, and choosing your photographer early ensures you have the opportunity to work with someone whose style and experience match what you envision.
If you would like to work with Jessie Reyes Photography for your TXST graduation photos, I offer a retainer fee to reserve your session date and place you on my graduation calendar for the semester you graduate. This allows us to start planning ahead and ensures your session is scheduled during the season you need it most.
Whether you're graduating in December or during the spring semester, these dates fill quickly. Don't wait until the last minute! Secure your graduation photographer early and enjoy the excitement of celebrating this incredible achievement.
Your degree is a once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment. Your photos should be planned with the same care.
The Best Places for Graduation Photos at Texas State University
One of the best parts about a Texas State graduation session is the incredible variety of locations across campus. Each spot offers something unique, allowing your gallery to feel diverse and personal.
Old Main
Old Main is the most recognizable building on campus and a must-have location for nearly every graduate. Its historic architecture creates timeless portraits that immediately say "Texas State."
The Arch
The Arch is one of Texas State's most beloved traditions and a meaningful stop during your graduation session. As a symbol of your journey from student to graduate, it's the perfect place to celebrate this incredible milestone.
Alkek Library Stairs
The grand stairs at Alkek Library offer a modern, elegant setting that photographs beautifully. The clean architectural lines create a sophisticated look that's perfect for both graduation portraits and professional branding images.
The TXST Sign
The large TXST sign is a favorite stop for graduates who want a fun, recognizable photo that proudly represents their alma mater. It's a great way to add school spirit to your gallery and makes an excellent image for announcements and social media.
What Should You Wear for Your Graduation Session?
Choosing the right outfits can make a huge difference in the final look of your gallery. I always recommend bringing two or three outfits to create variety.
A white dress remains a timeless favorite for graduation portraits, while business attire is perfect if you'd like professional headshots for LinkedIn or your first career.
Casual outfits featuring jeans, a Texas State shirt, or your favorite outfit can add personality and make your gallery feel more authentic.
Don't forget to bring your cap, gown, honor cords, stoles, graduation sash, and diploma cover. These details represent everything you've earned and deserve to be included in your portraits.
Comfortable shoes are also highly recommended since we'll be walking throughout campus.
What Should You Bring?
A little preparation helps your session run smoothly.
Bring:
- Cap and gown
- Honor cords and stoles
- Diploma cover
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hairbrush
- Lipstick or makeup for touch-ups
- Water bottle
- Phone charger
- Safety pins
- Class ring
- Champagne (where permitted)
Having everything ready before your session allows us to spend more time creating beautiful portraits and less time searching for missing items.
What to Expect During Your Session
Graduation sessions are designed to be relaxed, fun, and personalized.
We'll meet on campus before sunset and spend time visiting several beautiful locations. Along the way, you'll have opportunities to change outfits, celebrate your accomplishments, and enjoy the experience.
Don't worry if you've never been professionally photographed before. I'll guide you through every pose, help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and create natural expressions that reflect your personality.
The goal isn't just beautiful photographs. It's creating an experience you'll always remember.
Graduation Photo Ideas You'll Love
Every graduate has a unique story, and your gallery should reflect that.
Some favorite graduation portraits include:
- Tossing your cap
- Walking through campus
- Holding your diploma cover
- Looking back toward Old Main
- Celebrating with champagne
- Portraits with parents
- Photos with roommates or best friends
- Close-ups of your class ring
- Sunset silhouettes
- bottle pop celebrations
- Sitting on campus steps
- Editorial portraits in business attire
These images create a gallery that feels complete, personal, and timeless.
"The goal isn't just beautiful photographs. It's creating an experience you'll always remember."
Jessie reyes
FAQ
How long does a graduation session last?
Most sessions last between one and two hours, allowing plenty of time for multiple campus locations and outfit changes.
What if it rains?
If weather prevents us from creating the best possible experience, we'll work together to reschedule your session.
Do you allow outfit changes?
Yes! I encourage 2-3 outfits for optimal variety and to show your personality.
Can I bring my family?
Absolutely. Many graduates include parents, siblings, grandparents, or significant others for a few portraits.
Celebrate Your Texas State Story
Graduation is one of life's biggest milestones, and your portraits should reflect the pride, excitement, and memories that come with it.
My goal is to create timeless graduation portraits that you'll love today and treasure for years to come. From planning your outfits to guiding you through every pose and helping you choose heirloom artwork for your home, I'm here to make the experience enjoyable from beginning to end.
If you're looking for a Texas State graduation photographer in San Marcos, I'd love the opportunity to help you celebrate your achievement.
Ready to start planning your Texas State graduation session? Contact Jessie Reyes Photography today, and let's create portraits that tell your story.
