There’s something special about graduation sessions at Emory University—no matter how many times I photograph there, it never feels repetitive. The architecture, the soft light filtering through the trees, and that perfect mix of elegance and energy always create the most beautiful setting… especially when the timing is just right.

This session was extra meaningful. Roma, McKenzie, Colbie, and Cate are graduating from the Emory School of Nursing, and from the moment I read their questionnaire, I knew this would be a special one.

They described themselves so simply and so genuinely: they love spending time together—walks, coffee runs, reading, watching shows—and most importantly, they wanted their session to reflect their friendship. Their words stayed with me:
“We just want to have fun… we really love each other and just want our friendship highlighted.”

And that’s exactly what we created.

A Soft & Classic Start on Campus

We began the session at the iconic campus gate and sign, with the girls wearing coordinated white dresses. Each outfit was slightly different, but together they created such a cohesive and timeless look—perfect for graduation portraits.

From there, we walked into campus, letting the session unfold naturally. Some of my favorite moments came from those in-between spaces—laughing while walking, adjusting dresses, linking arms without even thinking about it.

It’s always my goal to guide just enough while leaving room for real moments to happen, and they made that so easy.

Celebrating the Nursing Journey

We ended the session in front of the nursing school building, where they changed into scrubs—and this might have been my favorite part.

Instead of matching, each of them chose a different color: blue, green, pink, and purple. It was such a fun and personal touch that made the images feel even more “them.”

Of course, we captured classic portraits, but we also made space to celebrate. A little chaos with the medical flushes and water brought so much energy and movement to the session! These are always the moments that turn into the most unforgettable images.

The Perfect Mix: Posed & Candid

What I loved most about this session is how balanced it felt.

We created beautiful, timeless portraits—but also captured the laughter, the movement, the genuine connection between them. The kind of images that will mean even more years from now.

Because at the end of the day, graduation isn’t just about the achievement—it’s about the people who were part of the journey.

Thinking About Your Own Graduation Session?

Whether you’re celebrating solo or with your people, graduation sessions on the Emory University campus are always such a special experience.

I offer both individual and group graduation sessions, and group sessions like this one always bring something extra—more energy, more laughter, and so many candid moments you can’t plan.

If your goal is to capture not just how this season looked, but how it felt, a session like this might be exactly what you’re looking for.