Celebrate Your Achievement with Timeless Graduation Portraits
Classic elegance meets authentic moments. Serving the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia) area, Shenandoah Valley, and beyond with photography that honors this milestone exactly as it deserves.
About
Your graduation marks a monumental achievement—one that deserves to be celebrated with portraits that feel as significant as the moment itself. I specialize in creating elegant, authentic graduation photography that captures both the formality of the occasion and the genuine joy of your accomplishment. With over 7 years of experience and a portfolio that includes weddings across the DMV and beyond, I bring the same level of artistry and attention to your graduation session. My approach blends posed portraits with coached candids, ensuring every image reflects the confidence, pride, and personality you've earned through years of hard work.
What To Expect
From the moment you book, you're in expert hands. I provide personalized location consultation, wardrobe guidance, and detailed planning to ensure your session flows seamlessly. Whether we're capturing you at iconic DC landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and Supreme Court steps, or in the natural beauty of local parks, every detail is thoughtfully considered.
Before Your Session
* Location scouting & recommending the perfect location for you
* Guidance on wardrobe and makeup
The Session
* Guidance on posing and natural expression
* Mix of formal cap-and-gown portraits and personal looks
* Option to include family members in select images
* Early morning or golden hour scheduling for optimal lighting
After Your Session
* Sneak peek within 48 hours
* Full gallery delivered within 2 weeks
* High-resolution digital files with print rights
* Professional retouching with true-to-color editing
Investment
Gold Package: $800
Pre-session consultation and planning
2hr photo session at 1-2 locations
Up to 3 outfits (cap & gown + personal style)
Location scouting and recommendations
25+ professionally edited, high-resolution digital images
Full print rights and personal use license
Online gallery for easy sharing and downloading
Family members are welcome to join
Turnaround within 2 weeks
Silver Package: $500
Pre-session consultation and planning
1hr photo session
1 location
1 outfit (cap & gown + personal style)
Location scouting and recommendations
10+ professionally edited, high-resolution digital images
Full print rights and personal use license
Online gallery for easy sharing and downloading
Turnaround within 2 weeks
Booking Details: Sessions book quickly during graduation season (March-June). I recommend reserving your date 4-8 weeks in advance to secure your preferred time slot and location.
Process/Timeline
How It Works
1. Inquiry & Consultation Reach out through the contact form below. We’ll discuss your vision, preferred locations, timing, and any special requests. I’ll answer all your questions and ensure this is the perfect fit.
2. Booking & Planning Once you’ve decided to move forward, I’ll send your contract and invoice. After booking, you’ll receive a comprehensive planning guide covering wardrobe tips, location details, and session prep.
3. Your Session We meet on location and spend the allotted time creating beautiful portraits. I’ll guide you through everything—no stiff, awkward posing. Just confident, authentic you.
4. Gallery Delivery Within 2 weeks, your full gallery of edited images arrives in your private online portal. Download, share, and print to your heart’s content.
FAQ
When should I book my graduation session? I recommend booking 4-8 weeks before your preferred date, especially for peak graduation season (April-June). Popular locations and golden hour time slots fill quickly.
What should I wear? Be you. Be comfortable, but generally: bring your cap and gown plus 1-2 outfits that reflect your personal style. Think classic, timeless pieces that you’ll love looking back on years from now.
What if it rains? Weather in the DMV can be unpredictable! We’ll monitor the forecast closely and have backup plans ready. If necessary, we can reschedule at no additional charge.
Can family members join for some photos? Absolutely! Family photos can be incorporated into the Golden Package.
Do you provide hair and makeup services? While not included, I have trusted recommendations for professional hair and makeup artists.
How many photos will I receive? Your gallery will include 20+ professionally edited, high-resolution images (Gold Package). You’ll have full print rights and the ability to download all files.
What’s your editing style? I specialize in true-to-color editing that enhances the natural beauty of each image without over-processing. Your skin tones, the sky, the architecture—everything looks true to life, just elevated.
When will I receive my images? Within 2 weeks, your full gallery of edited images will arrive in your private online portal. Download, share, and print to your heart’s content.
Testimonials
“Last Saturday I had the pleasure of being photographed by Shelima. She beat me there, and I was on time, she gave great creative direction and made me feel comfortable. She allowed me to give pose ideas and she is very reasonably priced. She captured a huge milestone in my life and now I am able to look back and have beautiful professional photos to look back on. Thank you Shelima!” -Lachelle Ross
“Very professional and nice. My son doesn’t like to take photos but our photographer made him feel comfortable and even got a smile out of him.
” -Simone Daniels
