fun, relaxed and natural

Graduation Photographer – Durham University & North East Universities

Durham University, Newcastle University, Northumbria University, York University, Sunderland University

DURHAM UNI & BEYOND

Graduation Photographer – Durham University & North East Universities

Capture your graduation day with professional, relaxed, and fun outdoor photography for Durham University, Newcastle University, Northumbria University, Sunderland University, and York University students.


Your graduation deserves more than quick snapshots — it deserves beautiful portraits that capture the joy, achievement, and memories of this milestone.

Graduation photographer in Durham photographing Durham University graduates near the cathedral
Emily Carey photographer (ME)

DURHAM & NORTH EAST UNIVERSITIES

Looking for a graduation photographer in Durham?

I’m a professional Durham graduation photographer, specialising in relaxed, modern graduation photos for Durham University and universities across the North East of England. I photograph individuals, friends and families on graduation day, creating natural images at iconic campus locations with minimal posing and a calm, friendly approach.

relaxed and fun

Why Choose a Professional Graduation Photographer in Durham?

A young man in a graduation cap and gown smiles at the camera. Captured by a Graduation Photographer DURHAM UNIVERSITY, he stands outdoors in front of a stone building with arched windows. The image is in black and white.
A Newcastle university graduate walking through Newcastle University campus with her family on Graduation day with the arches behind

Graduation day is one of the most important moments of your life. As a Durham-based graduation photographer, I specialise in creating natural, candid, and fun outdoor portraits for graduates and their families.

Whether you’re walking around Palace Green, capturing iconic college lawns, or exploring local landmarks, I make your session relaxed, enjoyable, and tailored to your style. I photograph graduations for students from Durham University, Newcastle University, Northumbria University, Sunderland University, and York University, ensuring every session is memorable and unique.

BOOK YOUR GRADUATION PHOTOGRAPHER IN DURHAM
A young woman in a graduation cap and gown stands smiling on a path in a lush, green outdoor setting, surrounded by trees and plants—perfectly captured by a Graduation Photographer York UNIVERSITY.
A smiling graduate in a black cap and gown holds a bouquet of flowers and a diploma, standing outdoors with green trees—captured by a professional Durham Graduation Photographer.

Graduation Photography Packages

Here’s the lineup of our fun and memorable graduation sessions, designed to suit different budgets and styles.

A graduate in a gown stands smiling inside Durham Cathedral, with high vaulted ceilings, intricate stonework, and stained glass windows—captured perfectly by a skilled Durham Graduation Photographer.
A woman in a long blue dress, black academic graduation gown, and white boots walks and smiles in front of historic Durham cathedral—an ideal moment for a Durham Graduation Photographer to capture amidst tall towers and leafless trees.
01

Snap & Cap

A young man wearing a graduation cap and gown stands smiling on grass in front of Durham Cathedral with arched windows.

Quick, casual portraits for grads on the go.

  • Up to 20 minutes outdoors
  • 12 fully edited images
  • One campus location
  • Online gallery
  • Extra images available (£10 each or £70 for 10)

20 Mins

£150

02

Campus Stroll

A person in graduation attire stands smiling on the steps outside St. John’s College, captured by a Durham Graduation Photographer, in front of a wooden door and stone building with a college shield above the entrance.

Our classic session — relaxed portraits around your favourite spots.

  • Up to 45 minutes
  • 25–35 edited images
  • 1–2 campus locations
  • Family & friends welcome
  • Online gallery

45 Mins

£250

03

Uni Moments

A young woman in graduation attire stands smiling in a stone archway, surrounded by four family members in formal clothing, with an old stone wall and gothic windows behind—a perfect moment for a Durham Graduation Photographer to capture.

The premium experience with more time, more locations, and more memories.

  • Up to 1.5 Hours
  • 50+ edited images
  • Multiple campus locations or nearby landmarks
  • Family & friends included
  • Priority editing (48–72 hours)
  • Online gallery

1.5 Hours

£325

04

Grad Squad

Two graduates wearing black gowns with maroon and white hoods stand outside, smiling and hugging in front of Durham Cathedral with greenery and daffodils in the background.

Celebrate with your besties. Ideal for friends who want matching photos, shared memories, and tons of fun.

  • Up to 1 Hour
  • Group & individual portraits
  • 20 images per person
  • Additional Grads after 4 people: £50 each
  • Online Gallery for each Gra

1 Hour

£350

Add-Ons and Extras

01.

EXTRA IMAGES

£10 each / £70 for 10

02.

Rush editing

(24–48 hours) — £40

03.

Keepsake album

£85–£150

04.

Framed print

£35–£90

Where I Photograph Graduations

Durham University

From the historic Palace Green and college quads to the riverside paths and cathedral views, Durham University is full of photogenic spots. I guide you through the most scenic areas, capturing both classic solo portraits and fun group shotswith friends. Whether it’s the iconic college stairs, leafy courtyards, or riverside reflections, we’ll make the most of every location.

Two graduates in caps and gowns stand in adjacent arched stone windows in Durham Cathedral Cloisters, smiling and holding a diploma together across the gap between them. Durham Cathedral behind them highlights a classic Durham University graduation photographer moment.
a Newcastle university graduate smiling with backlit sunlight in front of Newcastle University arches on Graduation Day
Newcastle University

Newcastle University offers a mix of modern architecture and historic campus charm, perfect for graduation photography. From the dramatic arches and quads to quiet courtyards, we can capture a variety of candid, natural, and posed shots. Students love exploring both the city campus streets and nearby green spaces for a creative, memorable session.

Northumbria University

With its city campus, open spaces, and striking modern buildings, Northumbria University provides a dynamic backdrop for graduation portraits. We can combine solo shots, friend duos, or small group photos across multiple locations, highlighting both the urban vibe and the personal feel of your special day.

A young man in a graduation cap and gown smiles at the camera, standing in front of Durham Cathedral with arched windows. The image is in black and white.
Two graduates in caps and gowns stand outdoors at Durham University, smiling and holding diplomas. The man holds a bouquet of flowers, and the woman has one foot lifted playfully. Durham Cathedral and Palace Green is in the background—perfect for a graduation photographer.
Sunderland University

Sunderland University’s mix of green spaces, city landmarks, and riverside areas makes it ideal for outdoor sessions. I can create a balanced mix of fun, relaxed, and iconic shots, whether you prefer quiet corners for intimate portraits or open spaces for playful group photos with friends and family.

A woman wearing a graduation gown with a maroon and white hood smiles on a cobblestone path at Durham University. Her intricate bun complements her blue patterned dress—an ideal moment captured by a skilled Graduation Photographer.
A woman in a graduation cap and gown stands by a pond with tall grass, smiling, as a water fountain and trees frame the scene—perfect for a Graduation Photographer York UNIVERSITY portfolio.
York University

From lakeside paths and bridges to beautiful academic buildings and nearby parks, York University is full of scenic spots. I work with you to capture classic solo portraits, group photos, and candid moments with friends and family. The combination of natural light, historic architecture, and green spaces ensures a timeless collection of graduation memories.

Every location offers something unique

I photograph graduations across the North East, including Durham University, Newcastle University, Northumbria University, Sunderland University, and York University. Each campus offers unique and iconic spots perfect for portraits, and I know the best corners for natural light, minimal crowds, and stunning backdrops.

A person in graduation attire walks towards the entrance of Durham cathedral on a frosty day, as benches, gravestones, and a cross dot the grounds—captured by a Graduation Photographer Durham.
A woman in a graduation gown smiles on the grass at Durham Cathedral with towers and arched windows, under a blue sky—captured by a skilled Durham Graduation Photographer.

What to Expect

Your graduation session is designed to be:

01.

Relaxed & Natural

I guide you through poses in a way that feels effortless, so your photos capture your true personality, not stiff or awkward expressions.

A young woman in graduation robes stands on a stone path before a historic, Durham Cathedral smiling and looking to the side. Captured by a talented Durham Graduation Photographer, the cool, cloudy weather highlights her joyful moment.

02.

Fun & Candid

I focus on capturing genuine smiles, laughter, and spontaneous moments, as well as the iconic graduation poses.

Two graduates in black gowns and caps walk outside on a path, smiling and holding diplomas. The background shows a grassy area and an old stone building—perfect for a Graduation Photographer at DURHAM UNIVERSITY to capture the moment.

03.

Meaningful Memories

Every session highlights this important milestone. From the cap and gown to the campus backdrops, your photos will tell the story of your achievement.

Four graduates in caps and gowns walk on grass in front of Durham Cathedral, smiling and holding hands, with two more people visible in the background—captured by a Graduation Photographer at DURHAM UNIVERSITY.

Our photos were infinitely better than the standard graduation type!”

04.

Inclusive & Social

Family and friends are welcome in most sessions. Whether you want intimate portraits or lively group shots, I make sure everyone feels comfortable and included.

Two women stand close on a cobbled street. One wears a teal top and black trousers, the other is in a graduation gown and cap, smiling together—a joyful moment captured by a Durham Graduation Photographer.

05.

Guided & Supportive

You don’t need to worry about posing or timing. I’ll guide you through every shot, so you can enjoy the experience and focus on celebrating your achievement. By the end of your session, you’ll walk away with beautiful, timeless photos that capture the excitement, pride, and personality of your graduation day.

A person in graduation attire walks along a path before Durham cathedral with tall towers. Captured by a Durham Graduation Photographer, the black and white scene features benches and a cross on the grass nearby.
A woman in a graduation gown and cap poses confidently on a ledge before an arched stone window. Smiling in heels and a patterned dress, she celebrates her achievement—perfect for any Durham Graduation Photographer portfolio.
A graduate in a cap and gown stands and smiles near the edge of a fountain, with water spraying in the foreground and greenery behind—captured by a skilled Graduation Photographer York UNIVERSITY.
A woman in a graduation gown and black dress stands smiling in the aisle of Durham cathedral, beautifully captured by a Durham Graduation Photographer, with wooden pews on both sides and a large stained glass window in the background.
Six people dressed formally stand on the grass in front of a large, historic stone Durham Cathedral at Durham University Graduation. The overcast sky and trees frame the scene, captured by a skilled graduation photographer.
A woman in a blue patterned dress and graduation gown smiles joyfully while standing on grass in front of Durham Cathedral building with arched windows, perfectly capturing the moment for a Graduation Photographer at DURHAM UNIVERSITY

Graduation Gallery

RELAXED, MODERN GRADUATION PHOTOS

A smiling woman with curly hair in a graduation gown stands on grass, at Newcastle University looking back over her shoulder. Captured by a Newcastle Graduation Photographer, she wears a white dress and red shoes, with lush greenery and trees in the background.
A woman in a graduation gown stands on a frosty Palace Green before Durham cathedral. Capture this special moment with a professional Durham Graduation Photographer on your clear, unforgettable day.
Two graduates in caps and gowns stand outside Durham Cathedral on Palace Green at Durham University Graduation. One holds a diploma, the other a bouquet of flowers. Both are smiling, celebrating their achievements with their graduation photographer capturing the moment.
A silhouetted graduate in cap and gown walks through an arched stone doorway into sunlight, captured by a skilled Durham Graduation Photographer, with trees and a building visible outside.
A group of seven people stand together outdoors in front of Durham Cathedral at Durham University Graduation, wearing a mix of traditional African and modern clothing, smiling at the camera—captured by a skilled graduation photographer.
A person in a graduation gown smiles on a cobbled path before Durham Cathedral. The black-and-white image was captured by a skilled Durham Graduation Photographer.
A person in a graduation gown walks through a stone corridor with arched windows, smiling over their shoulder. Captured by a Durham Graduation Photographer, the black and white scene is illuminated by light streaming in from the right.
Four young adults, three men in suits (one in a graduation gown) and a woman in a pink dress, walk together smiling in front of Durham Cathedral
Two women with curly hair hug on a stone path. One wears a floral dress, the other a graduation gown with red shoes and cap in hand—captured perfectly by a Graduation Photographer Newcastle. Greenery and a wooden bench complete the scene at Newcastle University
Two women stand on grass before Durham Cathedral. One, in a graduation gown holding flowers, is kissed on the cheek by the other in a blue dress. Both smile, celebrating—a perfect moment for a Durham Graduation Photographer to capture.

Graduation Gallery

Relaxed, modern Graduation Photography

A young woman in a graduation gown stands inside a grand cathedral with ornate arches and a large stained-glass window, smiling and looking back over her shoulder—captured perfectly by a Graduation Photographer Durham.
A graduate in a cap and gown smiles and gestures towards a wooden wall featuring the Durham University Business School name and crest, captured by a skilled Durham Graduation Photographer.
A graduate in a black gown walks towards Durham Castle with arched windows and a clock, on a cobbled path, surrounded by greenery on a cloudy day—ideal for a Durham Graduation Photographer to capture the moment.
A graduate in a gown stands smiling inside Durham Cathedral, with high vaulted ceilings, intricate stonework, and stained glass windows—captured perfectly by a skilled Durham Graduation Photographer.
A woman in a graduation gown stands smiling before Durham University Business School on a rainy day. Wet pavement and bare trees surround her—captured by a skilled Durham Graduation Photographer.

CLIENT LOVE

Emily is so patient

“…she has the best ideas for photos! I had her take pictures at my graduation from Durham University and she worked efficiently to get me the pictures I wanted” – Babatola

A woman in a graduation gown stands on grass, smiling over her shoulder and holding flowers. She wears a patterned dress and heeled sandals, with stone arches behind her—captured by a Durham Graduation Photographer.
A woman in a graduation gown stands smiling in a stone corridor with arched windows and a lit lantern above her, captured beautifully by a Durham Graduation Photographer.

Highly recommended

“We were delighted with the photos that Emily took of my daughter and our family in her graduation gown at Durham Cathedral. Emily was friendly and we had a fun session, despite it being freezing cold (it was January). Photos were infinitely better than the standard graduation type”. – Ali

The photos were amazing

“Emily agreed to cover my son’s graduation at short notice, which was much appreciated. During the photoshoot she was patient, picked some great spots and unusual angles even lying down to get some action shots! The photos were amazing, really captured what was a wonderful day. Would definitely book Emily again in future.” – Pam

A young man in a graduation cap and gown stands on a cobbled path in front of a historic stone archway, at Durham Castle smiling slightly at the camera.

FEATURED BLOG POST

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Yes! Family and friends are welcome in Campus Stroll, Campus Moments, and Grad Squad.

We’ll use beautiful covered spots around campus or rearrange if needed — no stress.

Yes, depending on your package. The longer the session, the more we can explore.

You’ll get a private online gallery to download and share your images easily.

Graduation week books fast — I recommend securing your session early.

Got more questions? Let’s chat!

CONTACT ME

Time to Shine

Two graduates in caps and gowns stand outdoors, smiling at each other and holding rolled diplomas tied with red ribbons. Trees and a large building blur in the background—a perfect moment for a Graduation Photographer DURHAM UNIVERSITY to capture.
How long does a graduation photoshoot take?

Most graduation photoshoots last between 20 and 90 minutes, depending on the package you choose. This allows time for relaxed portraits, group photos and multiple campus locations without feeling rushed.

Do you photograph graduations at Durham University?

Yes — I regularly photograph Durham University graduation ceremonies and know the best photo locations around Palace Green, the Cathedral, college courtyards and quieter nearby spots.

Can family and friends be included in the photos?

Absolutely. Graduation is a shared celebration, and I’m happy to include family members, partners and friends in your graduation photos. I have different packages to suit your needs.

What should I wear for my Durham graduation photos?

Your graduation gown and hood are the focus, but neutral or classic outfits underneath photograph beautifully. I’m always happy to offer styling advice before your session.

When should I book a graduation photographer in Durham?

Durham graduation dates book up quickly, especially in summer. I recommend booking your graduation photographer in Durham as early as possible to secure availability.

Do you travel to other universities in the North East?

Yes — I work as a university graduation photographer across the North East, including Newcastle, Northumbria, Sunderland and York universities.