March 12, 2023
Sunny November Graduation Session at UNC | Olivia
- Graduation
Hi soon-to-be Graduate (or Alum)!
It's great that you're even on this page because I myself almost forgot to get graduation photos taken when I got my master's degree, and I don't even have any from my college graduation! There are so many personal reasons why you might want to get your photos taken, and I am here to learn about them to make your session extra special.
I love graduation sessions because I get to celebrate your achievements with you and learn about what the future has in store for you! I know it's a pivotal moment in your life, and I want others to actually have photos to look back on, unlike some of us (ahem, me). It is worth documenting! Working with me means that you feel comfortable with me from the beginning and fully prepared for your session. From inquiry to photo delivery, your experience will be memorable in the best way possible.
Working with me
A sneak peekOnce you inquire, I'll send over my pricing information. We'll set up a time to chat so we can get to know each other and talk about any ideas you have and how to make your graduation session reflect your personality.
After we get you booked with your signed contract and 50% retainer, you'll get a Client Experience Guide. We'll have a blast at your session, and then you'll get your photos 3-4 weeks after your session!
Recent Graduation Sessions
What's Included in each package
- complimentary 30-minute virtual consultation
- Client Experience Guide to help you feel prepared and confident for your session
- high-res, edited images delivered via an online gallery
- personal social media & printing rights
Graduation Sessions
Starting at $215 for 30 minutesI offer three graduation packages that range in length from a 2 hour session (for those who want it all) to a 30 minute mini session (for those who just want a few photos).
The 30 minute mini session includes 1 outfit, 1 location, and 10 edited images. For details on all packages and pricing for both individual and group sessions, click the button below to submit an inquiry, and I'll send over my pricing guide.
The Important Questions
How long is a graduation session?
I have packages that range from up to 30 minutes to up to 2 hours. We'll talk through which package is the best for you based on how many locations you want to go to, how many people are in your group if you're doing a group session, and the number of photos you're wanting.
When is the best time to take photos?
MAY GRADUATES
Hands down March or early to mid-April if you're a May graduate. The end of April and early May before graduation day gets hectic (especially at UNC at popular spots like the Old Well, the Seal, and the Bell Tower), and it's nice to get pictures done earlier with plenty of time to get them before graduation. If you're a UNC student who likes flowers, the flowers around the Old Well bloom mid-April, which makes the background extra beautiful.
Be aware that the closer you shoot to graduation weekend (2 weeks or less out), having people in the background is a risk you'll have to take. Sometimes this is avoidable with strategic body placement, but when it's really busy, it is not always possible to get every single person out of the background.
AUGUST GRADUATES
June and July are off-peak months, so you won't have to worry about long lines. The main thing you'll have to worry about is humidity and heat with North Carolina summers, so really it's based off your tolerance for both of those things.
DECEMBER GRADUATES
This depends on what you're looking for. September will be fairly warm but no fall foliage. October should be pretty mild in terms of weather (but sometimes it gets hot - it was 70-80 degrees when I did my photos in mid-October!). Early to mid-November should have fall foliage but may be chillier.
Should I book an individual or group session?
This depends on your budget and preferences. Group sessions will be cheaper per person, and you get a variety of photos with friends in addition to individual photos. Downside is trying to coordinate a day and time that works for everyone (I know it's a busy time!). An individual session will let the focus be on you only, which is awesome if that's your vibe, and you'll get a lot more solo shots since it's all about you.
During your consultation call, we can discuss the best option for you if you're still unsure as to which direction you'd like to go. I'm a firm believer in guiding clients towards the package that best fits their needs and not pushing you for one that doesn't, so you'll get my honest opinion.
Can you help with locations?
Definitely. My Client Experience Guide (sent after you book with me) has location suggestions with links to galleries that have photos for you to look at. I usually defer to you to pick which locations you want to go to, but I'm always happy to provide input.
What should I bring to my graduation session?
At a minimum: comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, makeup to touch up (if you plan to wear makeup), and of course, your cap and gown. I also encourage you to bring props!
When you book a graduation session with me, you will get access to my Client Experience Guide that outlines everything in detail to help you prepare for your session.
Can I bring pets?
ABSOLUTELY. If you do want to bring pet(s), I just ask that there is someone who can help with watching them when they're not in photos, giving snacks, maybe grabbing their attention for photos, etc.
What happens if there's bad weather?
If there is a forecast of bad weather or the weather turns on us during the session, we can reschedule. Do not worry about the forecast if it's more than 3 days out because it can change quickly. I will work with you 1-2 days before your session date to figure out a new game plan if the forecast isn't looking great. I'm pretty flexible with this and will work with you for weather reschedules!