Sophie - A Saint Mary's Graduate


Saint Mary's College in South Bend, Indiana, is truly such a beautiful campus. I go there often for family photos and portraits for those who never even attended the university. One of my favorite sessions was with Sophie, who was graduating with her M.S., CF-SLP.


Graduate poses by reflective pond with castle-like building and willow trees in background.
Graduate in white dress poses in front of ornate gothic church entrance with stone statue above.

This was my first college "senior" of 2024. We met in early spring, right as the flowers bloomed. I was anxious leading up to the shoot that everything would be dead, but we utilized the most gorgeous willow trees and budding pink flowers. The architecture at Saint Mary's College is beautiful, even without the foliage.


Sophie came prepped with inspo for her shoot. Some photographers hate this, but I actually love it! I can't read minds, so having inspo from clients is what helps us collaborate and create photos I know you'll love.

Graduate seated on stone steps surrounded by blooming white daffodils in spring garden setting.
Graduate poses in archway framed by blooming pink magnolia flowers against brick building.
Close-up portrait showing graduate with cap wearing white dress and blue stole.
Graduate celebrating on campus sidewalk with historic university building in background.
Graduate in cap and gown sits on steps holding tassel while posing in front of campus building.
Elegant white mini dress and high heels photographed in front of a brick archway with wooden bench.

It's been almost a year since this shoot, but it's still one of my favorites. The sun was perfect, her dress was amazing, and the colors were *chef's kiss*. I may have changed my editing a bit in recent months, but I still look back on these for inspiration from time to time. All photos were taken on the Canon 5D Mark IV with a 35mm lens.

White dress silhouette against golden sunset by lake with overhanging branches.
Spring graduation photo with blooming magnolia trees and collegiate architecture.