Graduation is a time to celebrate a momentous accomplishment and all of the memories you made while at college. What better way to remember your time at Miami than with graduation photos? 

We’ve already shared our top most Instagrammable spots on campus, but there are plenty more things to keep in mind while arranging your senior photos and we’ve got some ideas for how to make the process as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Here are some great Miami options for photographers and advice to keep in mind while scheduling a session.  

What to Look for in a Photographer

Examples. The best piece of advice to follow as you look for a photographer is to request examples of their photos. Many photographers have their own style and editing strategies, so if you like their previous work, you’ll probably like the work they do for you. 

Session length. Pay attention to how long you’ll be with a photographer. An hour seems like a long time, but it can actually go by really quickly, especially during graduation season where there might be lines at popular locations, such as the sundial or Upham Arch. 

Timeline. Ask for a timeline of photos and how many you’ll get. Some photographers take months to deliver photos, which might not be the best if you want to post them for graduation. 

Booking. Make sure you book your photographers in advance! Many local photographers will be booked by the time graduation rolls around. 

Cap and Gown. You may want to order your cap and gown early through Brick and Ivy’s online store so that you have it for photos if you schedule in mid or late April. 

Finding a Photographer

Instagram. Check out the #MiamiOHgrad hashtag on Instagram to see photos posted by grads in previous years. Consider reaching out for the name of the photographer if they aren’t tagged or named. 

Ask for recommendations. Join local Oxford Facebook groups or NextDoor and ask for recommendations. 

Grab a friend. If you don’t want to go the professional route, grab a friend who has a good camera and/or recently took a photography class. 

Still not sure where to start? Here are a few Miami-related photographers who have done grad photos in the past or who are open to doing them in the future. Of course, you should always do your own research before booking anything; Miami doesn’t endorse any particular photographer. 

• Ricardo Treviño is a part time photographer for Miami (who also works full time in Residence Life) and has a long history of taking wonderful grad photos. You can book a session with Ricardo on his website. The best part is…it’s completely free! The dates fill up fast, though so be sure to book sooner rather than later. 

• Amanda Parmo is a Miami alumni who now runs her own photography business out of Columbus. She comes back to Oxford during graduation time to do senior photos. You can book with Amanda through her website, or by messaging her on Instagram. 

• Andrew Fornadel is a first-year media and communications major who runs his own photography business (@andrew.fornadel on Instagram). Since the business is relatively new, it’s an affordable option for grad photos!

• Do you have another photographer to add to this list? Email StudentLife@MiamiOH.edu to let us know!

Grace Cooper