NTU Graduation Photoshoot at The Hive & Library

Graduation season at NTU is one of my favourite times of year. This NTU graduation photoshoot was for a master’s graduate who wanted a set of photos to remember her time on campus at Nanyang Technological University.

We picked three places that mean something to NTU students: a circular walkway, the library, and The Hive, the building everyone calls the “xiaolongbao” (小笼包).

NTU graduation photoshoot: quick guide

• Locations: The Hive, the library and a circular walkway on the NTU campus
• Getting there: Pioneer MRT, then bus 179 to the Academic Building South stop, close to The Hive
• Best time: after 4pm, when the light turns soft
• Must bring: your graduation gown, hood and cap
• Best angle at The Hive: low down, looking up

The Hive: NTU’s “xiaolongbao”

The Hive is NTU’s most famous building. Its stacked, rounded towers really do look like a basket of xiaolongbao, which is how it got its nickname. For students it’s one of the best-known study spots on campus, and it has also become a popular stop for tourists.

Shoot it from low down. The Hive is tall, so the best graduation photos come from a low angle looking up. It makes the towers look even bigger and gives the photo a proud, “I made it” feeling that suits graduation perfectly.

Come after 4pm. Inside The Hive the light is very soft. Later in the afternoon, from around 4pm, the light across campus becomes gentler too, so faces look natural and you avoid the harsh midday sun and deep shadows.

Graduation photos in the NTU library

The library is where many of the real student memories are. Rows of shelves make natural leading lines, and the even indoor light is kind to skin.

I asked her to lean against a shelf and flip through a book, as if she was back in the middle of a busy semester. These quieter photos often end up being the most meaningful ones.

Please keep it quiet and respectful in the library. Other students may still be studying.

The circular walkway: lines and window light

The circular walkway gives a completely different look. Curving stairs and strong lines draw the eye straight to the graduate, while the window screens let in soft, filtered light.

Tips for your NTU graduation photoshoot

• Wear your gown. For a master’s graduation, the gown and hood are what make these photos. Bring the cap too, and try a few shots with it off.
• Time it right. Plan the outdoor shots, especially The Hive, for after 4pm for softer light.
• Use low angles at The Hive. Looking up makes the building, and the moment, feel bigger.
• Bring a prop that means something. A favourite book, your thesis, or flowers from friends all add a personal story.
• Mix big and quiet. One proud shot in front of a landmark, then a few calm moments in the library or by a window.

Congratulations, graduate!

A master’s degree takes years of hard work. It deserves more than a quick phone photo in front of the stage. Walking back through the places where you studied and grew is the best way to remember it.

Book a graduation photoshoot in Singapore

• S$200 for 2 hours, covering several spots around campus
• NTU, NUS, SMU or anywhere else in Singapore that matters to you
• 50% deposit to book, balance paid after the shoot, and photos sent to you on the spot

See how a Singapore photoshoot works, or send me a message with your graduation date and campus, and let’s plan your shoot.