UIUC Graduation Photos by Alex Yuan
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The #1 Graduation Photography Experience at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Trusted by 5,000+ UIUC Students & Families
Graduation is a HUGE milestone, and you deserve photos that highlight everything you've worked for. Whether you’re celebrating years of hard work, friendships, or crazy late nights out, my goal for your photoshoot is to provide a fun, memorable experience, alongside mesmerizing photos that highlight YOU!
I've photographed 600+ UIUC graduates, here's what they've said!
Your UIUC graduation photoshoot experience includes:
- Posing guidance so you look confident and natural in every photo
- My exclusive Session Prep Guide to help with locations, styling, and ideas
- Friend, family, partner, and pet photos included, so you have memories with the ones you love
- Unlimited outfit changes to express your personality
- Flexible rescheduling in case of bad weather
- Printing release allowing you to bring the photos to life
- Complimentary headshot to prepare for your next chapter
- Polaroid prints (Instax Mini film) to take home and showcase
- Canon G7X Mark III to use to capture social media style photos
All that’s left to do is choose the session that fits you best!
Important Note
If needed, a full set of graduation attire can be provided for the photoshoot (cap, gown, stole, tassel)! Dates are limited, prices may increase, and sessions book quickly - early booking is strongly recommended! To reserve your photoshoot date, a retainer and signed agreement are required.
What to expect:
I. Booking Your Session.
Fill out the contact form to ask any questions or begin your booking process! We will discuss availability and determine a date and time for the session type that suits you best. Once everything is decided, a signed agreement and retainer must be completed to reserve your booking!
II. Session Prep and Photoshoot.
Immediately after confirmation, I will send over my Session Prep Guide to help you prepare for your upcoming graduation photoshoot and ensure that your photos turn out the best! I will send a reminder a few days before the shoot to make sure everything's set. Once the photoshoot date comes around, we'll meet 10 minutes beforehand, discuss the plan, and begin capturing your photos!
III. After the shoot.
I will provide Polaroids afterwards and send over sneak peeks in the coming days. Within 2 weeks, I'll send the full gallery for you to share! Additionally, you can order prints and albums through my print shop to bring the photos to life!
A little bit about me!
Hi, I'm Alex! (University of Illinois, Class of 2025)
As a fellow UIUC graduate, I know exactly how meaningful this milestone is and exactly how to capture it! I began this journey over 4 years ago because I always wished to have more memories of my past, so, in turn, I made it my goal to help others capture their most important moments and memories to look back on. I hope to continue connecting with more people and help make each person I work with feel more confident and beautiful, because everyone deserves that!
FAQ
When should I book my UIUC graduation photos?
Most students book their graduation photos 4 to 6 weeks in advance, especially for the busy spring semester. Peak dates around graduation weekends fill quickly, so reserving your session early ensures the best availability and ideal lighting times.
If you’re graduating in May, the smartest time to book is typically between February and early April.
What is the best time of day for graduation photos at UIUC?
The best lighting happens during golden hour, which is shortly before sunset. This creates soft, flattering light and beautiful campus colors.
Evening sessions are the most popular because they provide that warm, cinematic look many graduates love, but the times do book up quickly!
Nonetheless, I help guide every client toward the best time based on season, weather, and campus conditions.
What are the best UIUC graduation photo spots?
Sessions can take place anywhere on or near the University of Illinois campus that you'd like! Some of the most popular, most aesthetic locations include:
• Alma Mater
• Foellinger Auditorium
• Main Quad
• Hallene Gateway + Fountain
• Gies Memorial Stadium
• Krannert Center
• Japan House
• Main Library
Before your session, I help plan a location route so everything flows efficiently and stress-free!
More FAQ
How do I book a session?
A. Booking a session is easy! Simply fill out my contact form to check availability and discuss what you're looking for.
Once we finalize the details, a deposit and signed agreement are required to secure your photoshoot!
How long will it take to receive my photos?
A. The typical turnaround time for edited photos is within 2 weeks. I’ll notify you as soon as your private online gallery is ready for viewing and downloading!
How many photos will I receive?
A. Each package includes a set number of professionally edited, high-resolution images, with the option to purchase additional favorites if you’d like more.
My goal is always quality over quantity - delivering images you’ll genuinely love and want to share for years to come!
What happens if the weather is bad?
A. If rain or severe weather is forecasted, we’ll simply reschedule your session at no additional cost.
I closely monitor conditions leading up to your shoot and communicate proactively so you never have to stress about last-minute decisions.
Cloudy skies can actually create beautiful lighting - but your experience and final images always come first.
What is your cancellation policy?
A. Cancellations made at least 72 hours in advance will receive a full refund of the deposit. Cancellations made less than 72 hours in advance will forfeit the deposit, but I’m happy to reschedule at no extra cost!
Can I include friends, family, or pets in my session?
A. Absolutely! You're welcome to bring friends or family members to join you for some photos at no extra cost. Just let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.
Additionally, the "Celebrate Together" Add-On allows you to bring friends, family, or any other loved ones during extended time to your session!
Do you offer print services?
A. Yes, I offer a range of printing options, including custom-designed photo books, framed prints, and canvas prints! You can order these directly through your online gallery.
What should I wear for my UIUC graduation photos?
A. Most grads choose their cap and gown for part of the session and bring one additional outfit that reflects their personality.
Neutral colors, timeless styles, and outfits you feel confident in tend to photograph best.
After booking, you’ll also receive a preparation guide with detailed outfit tips so you feel fully ready for your session!
What if I feel awkward in front of the camera?
A. You are not alone - most of my clients say this before their session, but don't worry!
My approach is highly guided and relaxed. I direct you through natural poses while keeping things comfortable and fun, so nothing ever feels forced.
Within minutes, most people forget they were nervous at all!
You don’t need modeling experience - just show up ready to celebrate.
Do you retouch the photos?
A. Yes! Every delivered image is professionally edited for color, lighting, and overall polish.
Light retouching is included to ensure you look your best while still keeping everything natural and authentic.
Additional detailed edits can also be requested if desired.
Why should I hire a professional graduation photographer?
A. Your graduation only happens once and professional photography ensures it’s captured with care, expertise, and consistency.
Beyond just taking photos, I help with:
- Location planning
- Natural posing
- Lighting expertise
- Efficient session flow
- Professional editing
The result is a set of images that truly reflect your achievement and this moment in your life.
How do I reserve my session?
A. To secure your date, a signed agreement and 50% retainer are required. Once that’s complete, your session is officially reserved!
From there, I guide you through every step so you feel fully prepared and excited heading into your shoot.