Shanique’s Graduation Shoot – Class of 2024, UTech Jamaica

 

 

Some moments deserve to be celebrated in style—and Shanique did just that. Traveling all the way from Westmoreland to Portmore, Jamaica, she trusted me to capture one of the biggest milestones in her life: graduating from the University of Technology, Jamaica (Class of 2024). This was her very first professional photoshoot and the first time wearing makeup—and you’d never guess it by looking at the final images. She absolutely nailed it.

 

Playful graduation photo with student holding gold balloons against yellow background.

 

The Concept

This shoot was all about celebrating Shanique’s academic achievement with personality, pride, and a little bit of flair. She came prepared with props to mark the occasion, and we built the session around two looks that brought out both her school spirit and her sleek, confident style. Despite it being her first time in front of the camera, Shanique delivered like a pro—graceful, poised, and glowing with accomplishment.

 

Graduate in navy sweatshirt and white skirt sits on wooden stool holding celebration balloons.
Joyful graduate poses on stool with gold balloons in casual graduation outfit.

 

The Looks

Shanique started with a playful academic look—a pleated skirt, her UTech sweater, and heels—set against a bold yellow backdrop. The color choice was intentional, adding energy and warmth to the shots while complementing her skin tone and the joy of graduation.

For her second look, Shanique switched gears into something chic and empowering—a tailored all-white pantsuit paired with heels. We moved to a clean gray background to match the minimalist elegance of the outfit. The result? Timeless, editorial-style graduation portraits with a modern edge.

 

Graduate in navy and white outfit strikes dynamic pose while holding cap against yellow background.
Graduate in navy sweater and white skirt poses playfully with bouquet against yellow backdrop.
Graduating student in navy sweater poses with decorative bouquet against vibrant yellow background.

 

The Results

Shanique’s session turned into one of my favorite graduation shoots to date. Her joy, vulnerability, and confidence came through in every image. It was inspiring to witness and capture someone celebrating such a huge personal and academic win.

This wasn’t just a graduation shoot—it was a statement of growth, self-love, and bold new beginnings. And I’m honored she came all the way from Westmoreland just to work with me.

 

Glamorous studio photoshoot featuring a model in white outfit and brown boots posing with gold balloons.
Dynamic fashion poses in an all-white ensemble against a grey studio backdrop.
Energetic dance-inspired poses in a crisp white pantsuit and baseball cap.
Professional studio portraits in white business attire against dark grey background.
Confident poses in white business wear showing professional style and attitude.

 

All images were shot and edited by Leon Mullings, a portrait photographer from Jamaica who helps everyday women feel confident, powerful, and radiant through stunning and intentional photography.


The Gear

For Shanique’s shoot, I used:

  • Camera: Sony A7III
  • Lens: 85mm f/1.8
  • Lighting: 3-light studio setup

The Sony A7III and 85mm lens combo gave us crisp, flattering portraits with beautiful subject isolation. The three-light setup allowed us to sculpt soft shadows and highlight her features—especially important since this was her first time in makeup, and we wanted everything to look natural and polished.