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Year In Review: 2019 Grad Photos

My favorite images from the 2019 Graduation Photo Season

By Matt Pendleton Photography

December 24^th, 2019

Year In Review

Grad photo sessions are a major part of my core business. I meet so many different and interesting clients who are starting the next chapter of their life. This year, I photographed tons of doctors, dentists, tv reporters, lawyers, and almost every single graduating Florida Gators Lacrosse athlete along with volleyball, gymnastics, and football athletes.

Before you scroll to check out 2019's best photos, check out last year's Year In Review!

Now, scroll down to explore my images from the 2019 #GradPhotoSzn.

The Gear

I'm fortunate to use Profoto gear to power my grad photo sessions. The ability to shoot with wide open apertures on prime lenses in bright natural light allowed me to create unique, well-lit images. I also love to use only available light.

Here's the gear I use for grad photo sessions:

Camera Gear: Canon 1D-X Mark II, Canon 50mm f1.2L, Canon 85mm f1.4L IS, Lexar 32GB Memory Cards, and Tiffen UV filters
Lighting: Profoto B1X with Profoto OCF Beauty Dish Silver or available light

Bull Gator @ Gator Walk

The older of the other Bull Gator statues, this location provides great opportunities for beautifully lit shots.

Bull Gator @ College of Business

This is one the newer Bull Gator statues on campus.

Bull Gator @ Gate 18

This is one of the largest Bull Gator statues on campus

Gator Walk

The brick entrance to the football stadium is an iconic spot for my grad photo clients. Gator Chomps are the best way to kick off a session.

It's also a great place for groups or just take a walk.

Props and unique outfits really enhance the location.

Don't forget a nice champagne pop at Gator Walk

Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

The stadium is one of our most requested locations. There are so many different looks that I can shoot all in one place. The light is best in the afternoon.

The iconic walls of the stadium also make for a great backdrop!

We can even pull off some amazing silhouette shots too!

The Gators Tunnel

This is the tunnel that the Florida Gators football team uses to enter the stadium. This is also one of our favorite spots to shoot with both groups and individuals alike.

The Gator Head Logo

I'm going to let you in on our secret location inside the stadium tucked away above the north endzone. This gives me a great background with soft light.

Where the Gators Play

Field access is restricted most days of the year exception for the few days leading up to graduation. I take full advantage of that exclusive access especially when the sun is perfect. Not all grads get to shoot on the field so book early!

Plaza of the Americas

This has become a very beautiful spot over the last few years. UF has invested heavily in their landscape master plan and focused a lot on this area. Early mornings and golden hour produce some great light. This is another fun champagne popping spot.

More Locations

Over the years I have shot in many non-traditional locations. Mostly at the request of some really creative clients but also to ensure I continue to create original images.

Athletes are great to work with as I get to use their home fields/stadiums/gyms to create exclusive content. Plus they have some of the best gear and props.