Celebrating Wail’s Graduation Shoot at UCT 🎓
- Ashley Chapman

- Sep 11
- 3 min read
There’s something special about graduation shoots – the excitement, the relief, and the pure joy of finally reaching such a huge milestone. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Wail’s graduation at the University of Cape Town, and let me tell you, it was an absolute breeze from start to finish.
From the moment we met, Wail brought such a laid-back and confident energy to the shoot. He was game for just about anything, which made capturing his personality so much fun. Whether it was leaning casually on the steps of UCT’s iconic buildings or strolling through campus with effortless style, every moment felt authentic and natural. He made the whole session feel less like a formal photoshoot and more like a celebration, which is exactly how graduation should be remembered.

The Setting: UCT’s Timeless Backdrop
One of the reasons graduation shoots at UCT are so striking is the backdrop itself. The mix of classic architecture, leafy pathways, and wide-open spaces makes every shot feel cinematic. For Wail, the location perfectly complemented his sharp suit and graduation gown, giving us the chance to create images that looked stylish and professional while still being fun and easy-going.
As a Cape Town photographer, I’m constantly reminded how lucky we are to have such stunning locations right on our doorstep. UCT is iconic for a reason – it doesn’t just represent achievement and knowledge, it also provides the perfect canvas for capturing milestone moments like this.
Why a Graduation Shoot is an Investment
A lot of people wonder if booking a professional graduation shoot is worth it. After all, friends and family can take a few snaps on their phones, right? While those quick photos definitely have their place, there’s something completely different about investing in professional photography.
Here’s why:
Quality that lasts – Professional images are timeless. They’re not just for the day; they’re for decades to come.
Capturing personality – A photographer knows how to bring out your unique character, not just your outfit and cap. Wail’s easy-going nature shone through in every frame.
Stress-free experience – Instead of worrying about lighting, angles, or blurry shots, you get to simply enjoy the day.
A milestone worth remembering – Graduation is years in the making. Why not celebrate it with the same effort you put into achieving it?
Behind the Lens: A Fun and Easy Session
What stood out most about Wail’s shoot was how easy-going the whole experience felt. He wasn’t afraid to try different poses, add his own flair, and even throw on a pair of sunglasses for a confident, cool look. That willingness to have fun is what makes a shoot memorable. The result was a gallery filled with variety – from classic gown portraits to lifestyle-inspired shots that look like they belong on the cover of a magazine.
It’s these kinds of sessions that remind me why I love what I do. Photography isn’t just about clicking a button; it’s about capturing moments, personalities, and stories. And when clients bring their energy and openness to the shoot, the photos naturally reflect that.

Celebrate Your Own Milestone in Style
Graduation is more than just a ceremony – it’s the closing of one chapter and the exciting start of another. It’s a day filled with pride, joy, and the satisfaction of years of hard work. Booking a professional graduation photoshoot ensures that you don’t just have photos, you have memories beautifully preserved.
If you’re graduating soon and looking for a Cape Town photographer who can capture your achievement in a way that feels authentic, fun, and timeless, I’d love to be part of your celebration. After all, milestones like this deserve more than just a snapshot – they deserve an investment in memories you’ll treasure forever.

















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