Taking Greener Graduation Pictures

Two Students in graduation gowns posing in front of magnolia trees with cap raised

With the semester coming to an end and spring in full bloom, get ready to see purple graduation gowns all over campus—it’s graduation season!

Washington Square Park is a common backdrop for NYU graduation photos, but photoshoots can sometimes lead to trampled grass and flowers and littered props. While glitter and balloons may seem like fun options in the moment, they are often left behind and cause pollution and harm to our environment. Let’s create timeless memories of this special time while showing our local wildlife and green spaces some love! Watch our reel for some examples! 

Consider using these tips to add a sustainable touch to your graduation pictures: 

Student posing with graduation gown and sunglasses with blurred train passing behind1. Avoid Single-Use Props: 

    • Use Natural Backgrounds – No balloon could ever compete with thebeautiful, natural backdrop of vibrant flowers or a blossoming tree. Find natural backdrops that stand out instead of buying items like balloons that will just be thrown away. Even if disposed of correctly, balloons take many years to decompose (even biodegradable balloons) and can end up being consumed by wildlife.
    • Use Sentimental Props – Imagine a photo under the Washington Square Arch with the emotional support snack that got you through college. Or holding your favorite textbook in front of Bobst Library. Or walking through the streets of NYC wearing your favorite sunglasses, holding an NYU banner, or photographing yourself on your favorite park bench. All of these will make for timeless, meaningful photos that are also nice to the planet.
    • Play with Angles and Poses Instead – Find some creative angles and poses that will make your photos stand out. Try holding your gown over your shoulder, candid photos laughing with friends, or even low-shutter speed blurry movement photos.

2. That Being Said… Keep Our Park Green:Student in graduation gown sitting on park bench with greenery in background

      • Stay Outside Fenced-Off Areas – Fences are there for a reason! Park staff work hard to keep our plants thriving. There may be seeds waiting to sprout or grass that is being preserved in the fenced-off areas. Avoid stepping over them, which may kill plants, especially when hundreds of recent graduates are doing the same.
      • Don’t Pick Flowers! – The flowering tulips and cherry blossoms are beautiful, so let’s keep them that way! Let’s let them live by not picking them. 

3. Cap Toss > Glitter Toss: Glitter and/or confetti are often left behind in the park, which contaminates the soil and gets into waterways. This can damage ecosystems and make wildlife sick. If you’ve ever used glitter or confetti, you may also know that it is extremely difficult to clean up. Consider doing the classic cap toss instead!Student in graduation gown tossing cap in front of the Washington Square Park Arch

4. Borrow & Thrift Your Outfit: Although your targeted Instagram ads may say otherwise, you don’t need to buy a brand-new outfit for graduation! Fast fashion has a major environmental toll. Check what you already own, attend a clothing swap, borrow from a friend, or thrift something instead. 

We can’t wait to see your sustainable graduation photos!

 

 

Congratulations to the NYU Class of 2025!