How to make a graduation video from a photo

Updated October 21, 2026 · Reviewed by The Rift team

Short answer

Add your graduation photo in Rift and tell Spark, Rift's video agent, what happens: caps thrown in the air, a slow walk across the stage, confetti over the family. Spark keeps the faces and gowns and adds the movement. Or share a trend and say 'me in my gown, doing this'. Tap Make for a video up to 15 seconds to post or send.

Add your graduation photo and tell Spark the movement, such as caps in the air. A few seconds of motion makes yours stand out.

What you need

An iPhone with Rift.
Your graduation photo, ideally in gown and cap.
A childhood photo, if you want a “then and now”.

Step by step

Add the photo in Rift.
Say the moment: caps in the air, the walk, the hug.
Check the Draft and tap Make.
Send it to the family chat or post it.

Lines to try with Spark

“Caps thrown in the air, slow motion, sunny lawn.”
“Me walking across the stage, the crowd standing.”
“My parents hugging me, confetti falling.”
“My 6-year-old self hands me the diploma,” with a childhood photo.
“Me in my gown, doing this trend,” with a trend you share.

Tips

Slow motion suits the cap toss. Say it.
Wide photos leave room for confetti and the crowd.
Then and now works best with a clear childhood photo, face to camera.

Questions people ask

Can I use a group photo of my class?

Yes. Say "everyone throws their caps" and ask your friends before posting.

Can I make a "then and now" video?

Yes. Add a childhood photo and say "my 6-year-old self hands me the diploma".

Can I use my school's logo?

Keep logos and crests out of what you post. School colours read just as well.

Does it work for other milestones?

Yes: a new job, a first apartment, a finished marathon. Same steps.