One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is the incredible opportunity to collaborate with remarkable individuals who are embarking on new chapters in their lives! This sentiment rings particularly true when I think back to the delightful graduation session I had the privilege of photographing for Chloe, a recent graduate from the prestigious American University in Washington, DC!
Our celebratory morning together was an absolute joy, filled with laughter, candid conversations, and an infectious enthusiasm that perfectly encapsulated the spirit of this milestone achievement in Chloe’s life!
With the iconic Lincoln Memorial under renovation, we decided to kickstart our photographic adventure at the Reflecting Pool, a location that offered a quintessential glimpse into the heart of Washington, D.C. As the golden hues of the morning sun began to make their way into the sky we captured Chloe’s radiant smile against the backdrop of this iconic setting, creating a series of images that would forever remind them of their time in the nation’s capital!
Our journey then took us to American University’s campus, where we ventured towards the very building that had witnessed Chloe’s academic pursuits – Kerwin Hall. This building on campus held a special significance, as it was here that Chloe had dedicated countless hours to their double major in Political Science and Women and Gender Studies, two disciplines that will undoubtedly serve their future goals and aspirations.
Despite the crisp December air and our early morning meeting time, Chloe’s enthusiasm remained undaunted as we set out to photograph their AU grad photos.
As we explored the campus grounds, exchanging stories and laughter, I couldn’t help but admire Chloe’s ability to embrace the moment, to revel in the accomplishments that had brought them to this point, and to eagerly anticipate the adventures that lay ahead. We chatted about their family and their plans to visit them for the holidays and graduation celebrations that were planned for just a few days away from our time together!
As fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community, we found ourselves engaging in open and honest dialogues about our experiences as queer individuals. Chloe is one of the chillest, most down to earth people, and it was so incredibly special to have some time together where we could both be our true, authentic selves!
Chloe’s plans to continue their academic pursuits by working towards a Master’s degree in Justice, Law, and Criminology.
Moreover, I discovered that Chloe had played an instrumental role as a Peer Advisor within the School of Public Affairs, a position that allowed them to guide and support fellow students as they navigated their academic journeys at AU. (As a reminder, YES, they also earned TWO degrees simultaneously.) Chloe’s compassionate nature and their commitment to fostering a supportive community within the university setting (and beyond!) is so evident in everything they do!
From the way they share their story to the degrees they are working towards, the future job titles they hope to have, and the student activities they have involved themselves in, Chloe has a big heart for leaving the world a better, safer, and more inclusive place for all.
I so hope you enjoy a scroll through their AU grad photos! We had such a blast creating these images together.
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UMD College Grad Photographer | Zainab
American University Grad Photos on the National Mall | Catherine
