Graduation Shoot

Why Choose a Professional NYC Graduation Photographer?

Hiring a seasoned NYC graduation photographer ensures you get more than snapshots—you get a curated experience that highlights your personality, accomplishments, and the essence of New York City. From scouting the perfect lighting to guiding you with flattering poses, a professional photographer makes your graduation photoshoot stress-free and worth while.

As a NYC professional graduation photographer, I specialize in creating timeless portraits that celebrate your achievements in iconic New York City settings. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Lena’s graduation from NYU Law School, capturing her energy across the streets of the West Village, the historic NYU Law School campus, and the vibrant Green of Washington Square Park was a ton of fun.

Tips for Your NYU Graduation Photoshoot

  1. Plan Your Outfit(s): A classic cap-and-gown look paired with an easy outfit change adds variety (jacket vs no jacket, different shoes).

  2. Timing Is Everything: Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to avoid harsh shadows, and crowds.

  3. Embrace the Environment: Use NYC’s architectural gems and natural greenery for diverse backdrops.

  4. Personalize Your Session: Bring meaningful props—diploma, law books, or even a pet—to tell your story.

Book Your Session Today!

Ready to celebrate your graduation with stunning professional photos? As a dedicated professional graduation photographer in NYC, I’ll guide you through every step—from location scouting, to selecting the right time of the day for lighting and crowds, to helping you pose.

Graduation Photos at Fordham University | A Milestone of an Achievement

Graduating from college is one of life’s most exciting milestones. It marks the end of a transformative journey and the beginning of bold new opportunities. As a NYC graduation photographer, I love capturing this unique chapter in a graduate’s life—filled with pride, excitement, and reflection.

Recently, I had the honor of photographing a college graduate who wanted to mark the moment with something truly special. We started our session at the beautiful Fordham University campus in the Bronx and then made our way down to Central Park, capturing timeless portraits at the iconic Bethesda Fountain. The combination of these two locations created a graduation gallery filled with history, elegance, and New York City charm.

Why Fordham University Is a Picture-Perfect Graduation Spot

With its rich history, collegiate architecture, and lush green spaces, Fordham University’s Rose Hill campus in the Bronx offers one of the most beautiful and timeless settings for graduation photography in New York City.

Tips for a Great Graduation Photo Session

Want to make the most of your Fordham graduation shoot? Here are a few quick tips:

  • Book in advance - Spring weekends on campus get busy—schedule your shoot early to lock in the best light and time.

  • Invite friends or family - A few group shots with the people who supported you can make your gallery even more special.

  • Celebrate the details - Don’t forget to photograph your class ring, your decorated cap, and that joyful toss at the end.

Jonathan Heisler is a Professional New York City Photographer specializing in Graduation Senior Photos, Family Sessions, and Headshots / Portraits.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING THIS NYC PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Graduation Photos at Manhattan University in the Bronx | A Celebration of Success

Graduating college is a monumental milestone—and what better way to capture this incredible achievement than with a beautiful photo session on the campus where it all happened? Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing a radiant graduate at Manhattan University (formerly Manhattan College), located in the heart of the Bronx. Over our 1 hour long session, we captured a diverse collection of images full of genuine character and professionalism, which are evergreen. These photos are timeless and tasteful.

Why Manhattan University is the Perfect Backdrop for Graduation Photos

Manhattan University's campus offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern collegiate energy. From classic red brick buildings and manicured gardens to open quads and ivy-covered walls, every corner of the campus is a picture-perfect setting for graduation photography.

For this shoot, we explored several iconic spots across campus. The late afternoon light gave everything a warm, celebratory tone—perfect for highlighting our graduate’s joy and accomplishments.

Jonathan Heisler is a Professional New York City Photographer specializing in Graduation Senior Photos, Family Sessions, and Headshots / Portraits.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING THIS NYC PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Capturing Success: A Graduation Photoshoot at Columbia Business School

As a Professional NYC graduation photographer, I’ve had the honor of working with students all across the city (CUNY Hunter, NYU, Baruch, Columbia, Pace, Pratt, and so on). But few experiences compare to the recent session I had with a fun group of 12 women graduating from Columbia University’s Business School (CBS)..

A Challenging Yet Rewarding Session on the Columbia Campus

The photoshoot took place at the new Columbia University campus at 135th and Broadway. If you know anything about photography, you know how important light is. You’ll also know 1PM isn’t an ideal hour—the midday sun can be harsh and unflattering with shadows. Yet, with a bit of creativity and teamwork we made it work. While we had to make a few compromises—balancing the time of day, crowds, and less than ideal backdrops—our collaborative approach ensured everyone walked away happy.

Celebrating Each Graduate's Individuality

Group shots are important, but my favorite part was capturing individual portraits of each graduate. These women are on the cusp of major careers in business, finance, tech, and entrepreneurship. I made sure each portrait reflected their unique personality, confidence, and professional presence. Whether it was a power pose on the steps of Uris Hall or a candid moment under the trees of College Walk, every image told a story.

These weren’t just headshots—they were portraits of future leaders.

Why Choose a Graduation Photographer Who Gets It?

Graduation is more than a cap and gown—it's a moment of transformation. You need a photographer who understands how to work in tough conditions, who can adapt quickly, and most importantly, who can bring out the best in you, even under the noon sun.

If you're a Columbia University graduate, or a soon-to-be graduate from any NYC school, and want portraits that capture not just what you look like—but who you are—I'm here to help make that vision a reality.

Looking for a Columbia graduation photographer?
Let’s talk about creating portraits that celebrate your journey. Whether it’s group shots with your best friends or individual portraits with personal flair, I’ll help you capture it all.

Capturing the Moment: Senior Graduation Photos at Columbia University in NYC

Capturing the Columbia Legacy: Senior Graduation Photography in NYC

A college graduation is more than just a ceremony—it's a milestone that deserves to be celebrated and remembered. As a professional NYC senior graduation photographer, there’s something truly special about capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments for seniors at Columbia University. Between the historic architecture, Ivy League prestige, and vibrant city backdrop, Columbia offers a perfect blend of tradition and modern elegance for stunning cap and gown portraits.

Book a Professional NYC Senior Photographer Who Knows Columbia

As a seasoned NYC senior photographer, I know the ins and outs of Columbia’s campus, including the best hidden spots, flattering angles, and how to capture your genuine emotion on camera. Whether you're graduating from Columbia College, Barnard, SIPA, or GSAPP, your hard work deserves to be immortalized in images you'll treasure forever.

Jonathan Heisler is a Professional New York City Photographer specializing in Graduation Senior Photos, Family Sessions, and Headshots / Portraits.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HIRING THIS NYC PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER

Kayla's Columbia University Graduation Photos

NYC Grad Photos that will Leave an Impression

Having spent the entire last year of grad school online, Kayla wanted a graduation photoshoot that would show offer her accomplishment and school spirit!

Kayla and I worked around her busy school schedule and New York City’s unpredictable spring showers to plan a grad photo shoot at the beautiful campus of her soon-to-be alma mater, Columbia University. Kayla loved how her photos came out evening leaving us a review: “I am truly happy with how my graduation photos, thanks for helping me capture this moment!”


How Will You Remember and Capture YOUR Moment?

Jonathan Heisler Photography can help you to plan a grad photo session that celebrates you and your accomplishment. We’ll help you pick a day, time, and location that works for you. All you need to bring is an outfit change, a family member or friend, and your smile!

Congratulations Kayla!

Photographer: Trent Campbell