I love photographing Grad sessions, but this one was really special because it was for my daughter and her roommates/bffs — and it didn’t hurt that we did the session at the Lincoln Memorial at sunrise.
When we arrived it was still dark, and we were almost the first ones there (which would not have been the case if we’d done a sunset session!)
These four met in Fall of 2019, and little did they know that their college experience would be interrupted by a pandemic after only a semester and a half of dorm life, and that they’d spend all of Sophomore year taking classes online from an apartment that they found just weeks before school was to start. But these young women made the most of it, and they will forever have the bond of being together during that time. Four years later, here they are – grown up, resilient, accomplished, and still best friends.
This Lincoln Memorial grad session was the perfect way to cap off their time at American University, and celebrate their friendships and their achievements — having been together through thick and thin and motivating each other along the way (which would have been the case, pandemic or not!).
I was thrilled that they were willing to arrive before sunrise. I knew it would be great light, and we’d have the place almost to ourselves for at least a little while (until lots of other graduates arrived with their photographers!).
I wanted to celebrate these girls individually and as a group so we made sure to get a mix of photos of them separately and together.
A cap and gown photo session with friends is a chance to spend quality time together, reliving your favorite memories from your time in school. Sharing laughter, reminiscing about shared experiences, and encouraging each other to shine in front of the lens deepens the bond you’ve formed over the years. It’s an experience that strengthens your friendship and creates unforgettable moments you’ll cherish for a lifetime. I’m so happy that they had fun with this session, and I feel so lucky to have been part of it.
I love that they will have these photos together in their caps and gowns, and hope that they will serve as a reminder of challenges they’ve overcome, the friendships they’ve made, the lessons they’ve learned, and the possibilities that lie ahead.
Grad sessions are definitely not all posed shots. I tried to capture candids as we went — as you can see, these girls had a lot of fun!
And of course, no college graduation photo session would be complete without champagne. 😉
I had so much fun with all of you — Grace, Sofia, Sarah, and Sophie! I hope these photos serve as a testament to the friendships you’ve built and all the good times you’ve shared together. I’m so proud of you all, and I can’t wait to see what comes next. 💞
Cristen Farrell is a Boston Photographer, photographing offers a variety of high school and college seniors as well as families. These grad session photos were taken at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC, but depending on timing, Cristen may be available for sessions there. Cristen strives for photos that feature a natural and authentic style, and wants her clients to have fun along the way! Cristen can be reached by clicking on the contact form on this page. Don’t forget to follow Cristen Farrell Photography on Instagram, too!
