Hello again,

I had the honor of spending part of May 30th with 103 students, some of them Juniors, that graduated from Desert Hills High School.  The first part of the day was their rehearsal so they would know where to line up, when to walk in and when they needed to be on stage for the various awards.  Never having photographed a graduation ceremony at the Mesa Arts Center, I took the time in the morning to scope out where I was going to set up lights and where I was going to stand as the graduates received their diplomas.

The challenge came at the end of the morning rehearsal.  That is when the group photo is done.  I had thought about taking them outside on to some steps.  However, when I arrived in the morning, I saw where the sun was going to be and there was no way that was going to be a good image.  With the sun almost directly overhead, there would be very dark shadows over their faces from their graduation caps.  I could have compensated with strobes, giving them a suntan at the same time, but I knew if I was on those steps, I would be squinting.

Time for "plan B".  Plan B was to take the picture in the auditorium.  In working with the crew at the Mesa Arts Center, I was able to get the image using only the stage lights.  The crew at the Mesa Arts Center was a big help getting light down where the orchestra would be if it wasn't covered and generally providing even lighting over the front of the stage.

The problem with "plan B" wasn't the lighting but getting enough elevation to see all the students.  Again thanks to the very helpful sound technician, I was able to get into the balcony to take the picture.  I think it turned out rather well.  You can see for yourself:



Between the time this picture was taken, at about noon, and 5pm when I returned for the actual ceremony, I was able to get the 11x14 version of this printed, matted, and framed to give to the principal that evening.  He was very surprised and happy to receive the framed image so quickly.

One of the amazing things about this graduating class is that more than 30% (I don't have the exact number) of students that graduated, received scholarships to either Junior College, an Arizona State college or a private college.  I don't know how graduating classes at other high schools compare but that seems like rather large percentage to me.

Class of 2008, I wish you all the best as you venture forth to follow your dreams.

Until next time...


Paul
Owner - Paul Rogers Photography
Preserving memories for all time
http://www.MemoriesForAllTime.com/