Duke Graduation Portraits | A Joyful Afternoon with Four Incredible Graduates

Spring at Duke University is nothing short of magical. The cherry blossoms bloom across campus, the Gothic architecture feels even more iconic, and everywhere you turn, there's a sense of excitement and accomplishment in the air. I recently had the honor of capturing graduation portraits for four amazing Duke students, and it was a beautiful reminder of the joy, pride, and friendship that mark the end of this chapter.

We began our session at the heart of campus—Duke Chapel, which never fails to take your breath away. The late afternoon light filtered through the trees, giving everything that soft, golden glow that makes Duke graduation photos feel timeless. These four grads showed up with so much energy and love for one another—you could feel their bond instantly.

Four Women In Dresses Hugging Outside

What I love about Duke grad portraits is that they're not just about the cap and gown—though those are definitely part of it. They’re about capturing this once-in-a-lifetime moment. The friendships. The hard-earned joy. The mix of nostalgia and excitement for what’s next.

Each graduate had their own style and spirit. One wanted classic shots by the Perkins Library, another asked for candid walking photos near Abele Quad, and they all ended the session popping champagne (as one should!).

These Duke University graduation portraits turned into more than just pictures—they became a celebration of resilience, growth, and deep friendship. I’m always honored to be part of these milestones, and this day was no exception.

If you’re looking for Duke University graduation photography or planning ahead for your own senior portraits at Duke, I’d love to help tell your story in a way that feels real, joyful, and true to you.

Ready to book your Duke grad session?

Let’s capture your story in a way that feels effortless and meaningful. I offer solo, group, and cap-and-gown mini sessions throughout the spring.

Group Of Four Women In Graduation Gowns Duke University
Girl In Blue Graduation Gown In Front Duke Chapel
Girl Smiling In Blue Graduation Gown Duke University
Group Of Four Women Popping Champagne
Group Four Women Popping Champagne Laughing
Four Duke University Seniors Sitting On Bench On Campus
Four Women Walking Hand In Hand
Four Women Smiling And Hugging
Portrait Of Four Women At Duke University
Four Graduates At Duke University In Blue Graduation Gowns
Four Duke Graduates Tossing Caps
Four Graduates On Duke University Campus
Four Duke University Graduates In Commencement Gowns Smiling
Four College Graduates Blowing Kisses
Four Duke University Graduates Laughing
Four Duke University Graduates In Gowns Walking Down Road
Four Women In Dresses At Duke University Gardens
Four Women In Dresses Holding Hands In Front Duke Chapel
Four Women On Bench Laughing
Two Women Smiling And Hugging
Two Women Smiling Hugging In Front Pink Flowers
Woman Pink And White Dress Laughing
Woman Smiling Holding Graduation Cap
Woman Hands In Dress Pockets Duke Chapel
Woman Pink White Dress Smiling
Woman Wearing Floral Dress Duke ChapelDurham
Portrait Woman In White Dress
Woman In White Dress On Bench
Woman Leaning Against Column White Dress
Woman Laughing In White Dress
Woman Laughing In White Blue Floral Dress
Woman Leaning Against Column Duke Chapel
Woman Hands In Hair Duke Chapel
Woman Smiling Wearing Blue Graduation Gown
Woman Smiling Wearing Blue Duke Graduation Gown
Woman Kicking Up Leg In Graduation Gown
Woman Holding Graduation Cap In Air
Woman In Graduation Gown Holding Cap In Air
Women In Dresses Walking Through Green Trees
Group Four Women Throwing Graduation Caps In Air Duke Chapel Durham

Hello there and thank you for stopping by! I’m Katrina, the heartbeat behind Fifty Two Hundred Photo + Film, in Durham, North Carolina. I specialize in capturing meaningful and precious memories for remarkable families in North Carolina. I hope you enjoyed this story I shared today and if you are interested in learning more about The Time Capsule membership, or let’s connect. Not quite ready to connect, but you would like to follow along the journey? Follow me on Instagram and let’s be friends!

Katrina is a family photographer and family filmmaker in Durham, North Carolina. She offers lifestyle newborn photography, family photography and family videography which focuses on capturing authentic and honest moments for families. Her clients love that not only do they get digital files from their session but artwork to display in their home. She is happy to custom albums so you can revisit your favorite memories for years to come! Be sure to check out the Adobe partnership to see Katrina sharing her knowledge on capturing magical light to highlight the essence of each family. 

Want an easy way to make something beautiful out of all your phone photos and videos? Learn more about the Time Capsule Membership here. 

katrina williams