There’s something magical about capturing the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, and there's no better place to do it than at the College of Charleston. With the iconic Cistern Yard, the lush greenery, and historic charm, it's the perfect backdrop for graduation portrait photos. I recently had the pleasure of capturing some memorable moments at a Charleston College graduation senior portrait session in early May, just a couple of weeks before the big day, and it was a session to remember.

Starting at Clerks Coffee in the Emeline Hotel
For her College of Charleston senior photos, my client and I began our session at Clerks Coffee Company, located in the charming Emeline Hotel, where she works. This spot, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious brews, provided a personal and intimate start to our shoot. The familiar environment helped ease any initial camera jitters, and we captured some candid moments that reflected her daily life and journey through college.

Strolling Through the Historic Cistern Yard

From there, we made our way to the Cistern Yard. Known for its stunning live oaks and the historic Cistern, this area is a favorite for College of Charleston graduation photos. The iconic white dress looked perfect against the backdrop of classic Charleston architecture and lush greenery. It's no wonder why this spot is so popular for graduation sessions.

Popping the Champagne: A Celebration to Remember
One of the highlights of the shoot was the champagne pop. Nothing says celebration like popping a bottle of bubbly! As the cork flew and the champagne sparkled in the late afternoon sun, the excitement and joy were palpable. These moments are always fun to capture, and they add a lively and festive feel to the photos.

Timing is Everything: The Golden Hour
For those planning their own graduation photo session, choosing the right graduation photographer and getting the timing right is crucial. The best time to start your session is about two hours before sunset. This golden hour provides the most flattering light, adding a warm glow to your photos. Our senior portrait session lasted about an hour, giving us plenty of time to explore different locations on campus and capture a variety of shots.

Including Family: Making Memories Together
Graduation is a milestone not just for the student, but for their families as well. Including parents in your graduation photos can add a special touch and create cherished memories. We had some wonderful moments with the senior’s parents, capturing their pride and joy as they celebrated this significant achievement.

Kissing the Cougar: A Must-Do Tradition
No College of Charleston graduation session would be complete without kissing the Cougar. This beloved tradition symbolizes good luck and a fond farewell to the college years. As the sun dipped lower, we added a touch of flash to highlight this iconic moment, ensuring it stood out in the twilight.

Best Time for Graduation Photos: Mid-April to Early May
If you're planning your own senior portrait session, aim for mid-April to just before graduation. The weather is usually perfect, and the campus is vibrant, with blooming flowers and greenery. Plus, you'll have your photos ready in time to share with family and friends on graduation day.

Capturing the Essence of Your College Journey
Graduation photos are more than just pictures; they’re a celebration of your journey, achievements, and the exciting future ahead. Whether you’re popping champagne, kissing the Cougar, or simply strolling through the historic Cistern Yard, each moment is a memory in the making.

For those considering a graduation photo session with a professional Charleston graduation photographer at the College of Charleston, I hope this gives you a glimpse of what’s possible. It's a time to celebrate, reflect, and look forward to the adventures that await. So, grab your iconic white dress, gather your loved ones, and let’s create some unforgettable memories together!

Finding the Perfect White Dress
Your graduation day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and finding the perfect white dress (and the perfect photographer) is an essential part of the celebration. By considering your personal style, the fit, the weather, and accessorizing wisely, you’ll be sure to find a dress that makes you feel confident and radiant on your special day. Start shopping early to secure your favorite dress, and enjoy the process of preparing for this exciting milestone.

Congratulations on your achievement, and here’s to a fabulous graduation day!

Amy Quinn Hill Photography specializes in lifestyle and documentary photography, with work featured in newspapers, magazines, and online platforms. Serving Charleston, SC, and beyond, Amy is ready to capture your moments. Ready to book a session? Connect with Amy HERE!