I remember getting my high school grad proofs and the horror that followed. I remember reasoning, "this one's not so bad" - basically choosing the least worst of the bunch and ordering a set because... well, because graduating from high school is a big deal. On the one hand, I wanted to remember it - but, on the other hand, I didn't want to remember myself looking so terrible.
The grad portraits at Lesley Wong Photography are definitely not the awkward, boring, and old-fashioned grad photos you get at school. These photos are modern, unconventional, and fun. More importantly, these photos are meant to showcase your unique personality in a way that will make you and your parents beam with pride. Because, let's face it, cookie-cutter cap-and-gown grad photos don't show who you really are.
Grad portraits are called "senior portraits" or "modern senior portraits" in the U.S. and they are already super popular down there - just google it and you will see how many high school grads have them done. I hope these modern grad photos take Toronto by storm because they are a great reminder of what it was like to be young and carefree (and also a lot of fun to shoot).
I have been looking forward to shooting my first set of grad portraits for months now. Chloe is my younger sister and she is graduating from high school this year. I was so happy to photograph her at this pivotal moment in her life. It was a bit of an emotional shoot for me because I felt proud, excited, and protective at the same time.
How beautiful does she look in these photos!
I love this one of Chloe trying not to laugh.
What is Chloe thinking about here? Going to university? The next 5 years of her life? Or, if she's anything like me, she's thinking about what to have for dinner! Seriously though, I love how thoughtful she looks in these next photos. When I imagine grad photos, I envision a young adult, lost in thought and contemplating the future.
These next two photos are a couple of my favourites. Vince normally creates the framed photos but, because he wasn't available for the shoot, I gave it a try. I love how they turned out!
We played a little with lighting. I love love love the effect of backlighting - it's so dramatic and glamorous. It's addictive lighting at its best.
Then Chloe changed into her 3rd outfit - a super cute dress!
Chloe, I'm sure I've told you this before but you have become such a beautiful, intelligent, and loving young lady. I can't wait to see all that lies ahead for you!
(Make-up by Sonia Sahi.)
