Graduation Photographer in Richmond, VA
I photograph graduates in Richmond, Short Pump and Glen Allen, VA: cap and gown portraits on campus or on location, photos with family, and graduation parties. Whether you're finishing high school, college or a graduate degree, your hand-edited photos arrive in a private gallery within 7 days.
Graduation Photoshoot: from $250, 2 hours. Hand-edited photos in a private gallery within 7 days.
What a graduation session includes
A graduation session celebrates a finish line, so it should feel like you. Most sessions mix three kinds of photos:
- Cap and gown portraits - the classic shots with your diploma cover, stole, cords and any honors you earned
- Everyday portraits - a change into your own clothes for photos that show your personality, perfect for announcements and social media
- Family photos - the parents, siblings and grandparents who helped you get here
Playful ideas work too: a cap toss, confetti (check location rules first), your school colors, a team jersey or something from your major. Tell me what you studied and what you're proud of, and I'll help plan shots that reflect it.
I keep sessions relaxed and guided, and mix posed portraits with candid laughs between frames. You can see examples in my graduation portfolio.
Campus and on-location photos in Richmond
The most popular choice is your own campus, because those buildings are part of your story. In Richmond, VCU and the University of Richmond both offer memorable spots, from city streets and brick buildings to Gothic architecture and green lawns. If you're graduating from a high school or a college elsewhere, we can use your school or pick a location that fits.
Good off-campus options include:
- Brown's Island and the Canal Walk for a downtown look
- Libby Hill Park for a skyline and river view
- Deep Run Park if you live near Short Pump or Glen Allen and want greenery close to home
Campuses get very busy in the weeks around commencement, so book early and consider a weekday or an early-morning slot. Universities and parks may have their own rules for professional photography, so check current photography rules. My post on the best time of day for outdoor photos can help you choose a time.
Graduation parties
A graduation party is a different job from a portrait session, and I cover both. At a party I photograph the decorations, the food and cake, the speeches and toasts, the graduate with every group of friends and relatives, and the candid moments across the evening.
Many families combine the two: a portrait session a few weeks before commencement for announcements and invitations, then party coverage on the day itself. Larger parties with lots of guests are often a better fit for event photography, which also includes a high-quality Instagram reel to share with everyone who couldn't make it.
If you're unsure which option suits you, message me with the guest count and length of the party and I'll recommend the right one or put together a custom package that covers both the portraits and the celebration.
What you receive
After your session, you receive hand-edited photos in a private online gallery within 7 days, which leaves time to use them in announcements, thank-you cards or party decor. Every image is edited by hand for natural skin tones and clean color, including black and white gowns that can be tricky to get right.
The number of photos depends on the session, how many outfits you bring and how many family groupings we include.
To book, send me a message on WhatsApp or use the contact form with your school, graduation date and the location you have in mind, and I'll come back with availability and a quote. Need polished headshots for job applications too? Ask about adding them through portrait photography.
Frequently asked questions
When should I schedule graduation photos?
Ideally a few weeks before commencement, so your photos are ready for announcements and party invitations. Spring dates fill quickly, so reach out early.
How much do graduation photos cost?
Graduation sessions start from $250 for 2 hours. Party coverage or combined packages are quoted separately.
Can my family join the graduation session?
Yes. Parents, siblings, grandparents and friends are welcome, and family photos are part of most graduation sessions.
What should I bring to my graduation photoshoot?
Your cap and gown, stole, cords and diploma cover, plus one or two outfits of your own. Steam the gown beforehand so creases don't show.
What if it rains on the day?
Outdoor sessions can be rescheduled based on availability, or we can look for covered spots on campus.
See the Graduation portfolio
From the journal
Other services
Check availability