Paige’s Graduation Session: Golden Hour Grad Photos at the University of Montana – Celebrating Paige’s Journey

 

This session? One for the books. But let’s be real—I say that a lot. And every time, I mean it.


Photographing one of my closest friends' grad sessions was something extra special. It wasn’t just about the cap and gown; it was about capturing years of memories, growth, and late-night Diet Coke runs (because yes, Paige and I bonded over our shared love for the good stuff). We met our freshman year through UM Advocates, quickly realized we both had "What's Poppin" by Jack Harlow on repeat, and the rest? History. Including a trip to Seattle to see him in concert.


If you know Paige, you know she’s the kind of person who lights up any room. She’s effortlessly confident, endlessly supportive, and the type of friend who hypes you up no matter what. As a business major, she spent her college years stacking up leadership and communication skills like a pro—so obviously, her grad session had to match that same level of excellence.


We kicked things off in the heart of UM’s campus, right in the middle of the Oval. Golden hour was putting in the work, highlighting Paige’s natural glow (and making my job way too easy). And, of course, no grad session is complete without a champagne pop—because nothing says we did it quite like a bottle of bubbly mid-air. The best part? The cheers from people across campus. That’s what I love about UM—the community, the support, the energy.


Next stop? Monte, UM’s legendary grizzly mascot. Because let’s be real—what’s more Montana than a grizzly bear celebrating your graduation with you? After that, we headed to Main Hall, the oldest building on campus and an absolute must for any UM senior session. The bell tower, the history, the energy—it’s the perfect backdrop for that “hell yes, I’m graduating” moment. Paige was a natural in her cap and gown, radiating excitement (because who isn’t thrilled to say goodbye to weekly exams and 2 AM study sessions?).


And because Missoula never fails to bring the magic, we had a little surprise twist. Turns out, another group was doing a spooky-themed photoshoot nearby, and they were cool enough to let us borrow some of their props. Pumpkins, fall vibes, and even a bouquet of sunflowers? Yes, please. It was the perfect mix of festive, fun, and totally Paige.


Paige’s session was incredible—not just because of the dreamy October light, the crisp fall leaves, or UM’s stunning campus. It was amazing because of her. Because grad sessions aren’t just about crossing the finish line—they’re about celebrating who you became along the way.


Paige, you’re my superstar. I’m beyond lucky to have captured these moments for you and even luckier to have had you on my college journey. Call me soon.


Five graduating students in academic regalia pose outdoors against autumn foliage and campus buildings.
Autumn trees with vibrant red and orange maple leaves create a scenic backdrop along a paved walking path.
A series of graduation photos showing someone in a black cap and gown with pink attire underneath posing on a brick plaza.
A collage of four black and white photos showing autumn leaves fallen on grass with trees in a park setting.
A group of young people in casual summer outfits standing together for a group photo at an outdoor location.
Graduate stands in academic regalia in front of ornate stone university building entrance with brick walls.
A whimsical Halloween photo series showing six images of a pumpkin head figure posing around a college campus.
Person in a white dress photographs historic brick building with clock tower against blue autumn sky on campus.
Graduate in cap and gown stands in front of collegiate stone building entrance during commencement ceremony.
A montage of autumn campus scenes shows historic buildings, fall foliage, and scenic pathways at a university.
A row of people's legs and feet seen hanging off the edge of a stone wall in summer, suggesting relaxation and leisure.
A series of photos show acrobatic poses in front of a historic brick university building on a sunny autumn day.
Student walking across sunny collegiate campus quad near red brick buildings wearing pink dress in autumn.
A graduate sitting on stone steps while smiling and holding a diploma during a sunset graduation photoshoot.