Graduation Photos with Dr Hollie Carter
Capturing a PhD Milestone
There’s something truly special about being asked to photograph a milestone for someone you’ve known for years — and recently, I had that honour. I was invited to capture the graduation day of a long-time family friend, Hollie Carter, as she received her PhD from St Andrews University.
A Personal Assignment with a Professional Touch
Graduation days are always filled with energy, pride, and just the right amount of chaos — and Hollie’s was no exception. I spent most of the day with her and her family, capturing a beautiful mix of formal graduation portraits (perfect for the family mantelpiece!) and candid, emotional moments as she celebrated with her friends, professors, and loved ones.
Whether it was laughter shared with old classmates or the proud glances exchanged between family members, every image told part of the story of Hollie’s academic journey and the joy of finally crossing the finish line.
St Andrews University: A Stunning Backdrop for Graduation Photos
If you’ve ever visited St Andrews University, you’ll know how stunning the location is. With its historic stone buildings, lush green quads, and views that stretch to the sea, it’s an ideal setting for graduation photography.
We were lucky - the Scottish weather smiled on us that day, with clear skies and soft, flattering light that made every shot pop.
Community Behind the Camera
One of the unexpected highlights of the day was meeting a couple of fellow photographers who were also there capturing moments for their clients. We shared tips, admired each other’s gear (as photographers do!), and, of course, connected on Instagram. It’s always encouraging to see creatives supporting one another - a reminder that while we often work solo, we’re part of a much bigger, collaborative community.
Why Graduation Photography Matters
Moments like Hollie’s graduation are once-in-a-lifetime. Having them documented professionally means being able to relive the day — the emotions, the people, the atmosphere — for years to come. Whether you're finishing your undergrad, collecting a master’s, or (like Hollie) walking proudly with a PhD, a graduation photoshoot is a celebration in itself.
