1.
commemorative album; memorial photo album
A photo album created to preserve memories of a special occasion such as a graduation, wedding, or school year.
Combines 記念 (commemoration, memorial) with the loanword アルバム (album). In Japan, 卒業記念アルバム (graduation albums) are a deeply rooted tradition. Most schools produce professional-quality albums at the end of the school year, and they are treasured keepsakes.
Common collocations
- 卒業記念アルバム: graduation commemorative album
- 結婚記念アルバム: wedding commemorative album
- 記念アルバムを作る: to make a commemorative album
- 記念アルバムに載る: to appear in a commemorative album
Cultural note
Japanese school graduation albums (卒業アルバム) typically contain class photos, individual portraits, and candid shots from school events throughout the year. They are produced by professional photographers and are a standard part of the graduation experience at all school levels.