Graduation Announcements for High School Seniors | San Diego Senior Photographer
Graduation Announcements Demystified
A simple guide for parents of high school seniors
Every spring, I hear the same question from parents of high school seniors:
“What are we supposed to do about graduation announcements?”
After many years of working with seniors — and going through my own kids’ graduations — I can tell you this: there’s no single “right” way to handle announcements. There are just a few common options, and the best choice is the one that fits your family.
What types of graduation announcements do people send?
Traditional school announcements
These are the classic announcements ordered through companies like Jostens and often include the school logo. Many families tuck a small photo inside — sometimes the yearbook photo, sometimes a more casual image.
Photo graduation announcements
Custom photo announcements from online companies have become very popular. You choose a design and add your senior’s photo directly to the card. These feel more personal and are a great way to show your student’s personality. See TIPS below.
Both options are perfectly appropriate — and many families even use a combination.
Why send graduation announcements?
Graduation announcements are really about celebrating a milestone. They let friends and extended family share in an important moment after years of hard work — for your student and for you.
They’re also commonly used to:
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Invite loved ones to the graduation ceremony
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Invite friends and family to a graduation party or celebration
This information can be included on the announcement itself or added as a small insert.
One gentle reminder
Senior year moves quickly, especially that final semester. Between schedules, deadlines, and all the “lasts,” it’s easy to overthink details like announcements. Keep it simple, make it meaningful, and enjoy this season while you can.
Blessings,
Cindy Kyle
Thinking About Photos for Graduation Announcements?
If you’re still deciding what photos to use for graduation announcements, spring senior sessions are a great option. I offer relaxed, natural sessions that work beautifully for announcements — no stiff posing, no pressure, and no coat and tie required.
If you’d like more information or want to check availability, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help you decide what makes the most sense for your senior.
Tip for horizontal cards:
Leave some room off to one side for text. The online cards often have "Class of 2026" and room for the student's name off to one side.
Tip for vertical cards:
Choose a card online that places the text (name, etc) in an area of the image where is will be clearly visible.
Family, Fur, and Milestones
There's something so special about photographing seniors at home, surrounded by the people (and pets!) who love them most. This session felt extra meaningful - capturing not just a milestone year for their senior, but also the connections that shape who he is. From laughter in the backyard to quiet moments in front of the house, and of course a few sweet appearances from the family dog, these images capture of glimpse of home, love, and new beginnings. The youngest is graduating, both sons will be off to college, and they are spending their last few weeks in the home where their teens lived high school life to the fullest. What a joy it is to freeze these fleeting moments before the next big chapter begins!
Anderson at Balboa Park
Our location choice was obvious.
Anderson and his mom chose to come full circle by returning to the place where we first took their photos when he was three, Balboa Park.
We've done images regularly since that first session, always finding fun spots in their San Diego home town.
What a delight to capture so many stages of life for them, and how amazing to watch the young boy grow into such an amazing young man.
Congrats, Anderson! Graduation is just a new beginning!
Lilly in Little Italy
Full Length Session with Lilly
After we did her yearbook photos, Lily and her family opted for an expanded photo session. And what a fast paced adventure we had in Little Italy!
We walked through this downtown community snapping pics with all the fun city vibes.
Lilly nailed it, totally unfazed by the busy streets and sidewalks.
And we finally celebrated with her parents by enjoying a good Italian cup of coffee!
