~Guest Post by Neyssa Lee
Graduation season brings more than caps and gowns—it marks a turning point, full of personality and possibility. For Snoqualmie Valley photographer Neyssa Lee, senior portraits are about more than a yearbook photo; they’re a chance to capture each graduate’s unique spirit.
In Behind the Lens with Neyssa Lee Photography, Neyssa shares how she works with teens to create relaxed, meaningful sessions that reflect who they are right now—unboxed, authentic, and entirely their own. Celebrate your graduate with photos you’ll cherish. These easy tips will help you take meaningful, candid photos with any camera or smartphone.
How to Take Beautiful, Simple Photos of Your Graduate (No Fancy Camera Needed!)
It’s that time of year — caps are flying, tissues are out, and whether your child is graduating from preschool, high school, or somewhere in between, you’re probably feeling all the things. (I see you, fellow emotional mom!) As both a photographer and a mom of six, I know just how fast these milestones sneak up on us — and how important it is to freeze even a few of those fleeting moments.
The good news? You don’t need a professional camera or hours of planning to take meaningful photos of your graduate. With just a smartphone or basic camera, a little awareness of light, and these simple tips, you can capture images you’ll truly cherish.
Find the Right Light (Hint: Avoid Squinty Faces)
Lighting is everything when it comes to photos. Harsh midday sun can lead to squinty eyes and harsh shadows. Instead, look for open shade — that soft, even lighting you’ll find under a porch, in the shade of a tree, or next to a building that blocks the sun.
If you’re taking photos during golden hour (that dreamy hour before sunset), you can even let the sun hit their back for a soft glow around them — just tap on their face on your phone screen to adjust exposure if needed.
Get in Close
Instead of standing far away and capturing the full body (with lots of background distractions), try stepping closer. Frame them from the waist up or even just a close-up of their face and cap. Getting in closer helps focus on emotion and adds depth and connection to the photo.
Bonus tip: Take a few with just their hands holding their diploma or tossing the cap—little details like that tell a big part of the story.
Let Them Be Themselves
Not every photo has to be perfectly posed. In fact, the best photos often come when you let your graduate just be. Whether they’re giving you their goofiest grin, hugging a sibling, or tossing their cap in celebration, those candid moments are pure gold.
Invite them to do something that feels natural to them: laugh, spin, toss confetti, give you their “I did it!” face. As a Snoqualmie Valley photographer, I always talk with my subject instead of asking them to “say cheese.” Trust me, those are the ones you’ll look back on and remember how they felt.
Don’t Forget the Story
Think beyond just the cap and gown. Is there a favorite teacher, a group of friends, or a special spot on campus that means something to them? Take a quick photo there, even if it’s a selfie or a snapshot on the go. These images help tell the story of their experience — and can be just as meaningful as the formal portraits.
Bonus Tip: Take a Breath and Be Present
Yes, take the photos—but also step back and be there. Soak it in. These are the moments we dream about, and they really do fly by. Take a few thoughtful photos, then tuck that phone away and give them a big ol’ proud mama hug.
This first installment of Behind the Lens with Neyssa Lee Photography focuses on a moment many Snoqualmie Valley families are now experiencing—graduation. Neyssa’s tips offer a simple, thoughtful approach to photographing your senior in a natural and meaningful way.
Whether you’re working with a smartphone or a camera, her guidance makes it easier to capture this milestone confidently. Future editions will offer more helpful insights, covering everything from family moments to everyday storytelling.
Neyssa Lee is a lifestyle photographer based in the Snoqualmie Valley. She specializes in maternity, newborn, and senior portraits that celebrate connection over perfection. A Mount Si High School graduate and mom of six, Neyssa blends personal experience with professional insight to create relaxed, authentic photo sessions. Her work reflects a deep love for family, storytelling, and the local community she’s proud to call home.
You can see more of her work on her Website, Instagram, and Facebook.