SURPRISE! Just when you thought 2023 spring grad season was over… I have just one final session to share with you before I move on to highlight the 2023 winter grads in a few weeks! I’m so excited to recap this joyful Graduation Session at the DC War Memorial.
Meet Nathalie, a SNHU grad who has recently completed her Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology!
My first impression of Nathalie? She is a go-getter! She balanced her full-time job while pursuing her degree online. (Uhh hello, badass!) Life was busy around her graduation… ya know with a full time work schedule, papers, finals… all the things… so she decided to wait until life was just a little less stressful to take her grad photos. I love that she opted to wait while still making these photos a priority! Not only was she at peace during her session, without deadlines for papers and studying on her mind, but she also got to keep her graduation celebrations going for a few more months! (Well deserved at the end of any degree… but especially when you earned said degree while working a full time job!)
We met bright and early on the National Mall the morning of her session.
Nathalie and her grandmother arrived at the Reflecting Pool for her graduation session. The day was marked by excitement, gratitude, and a sense of accomplishment from both Nathalie and her grandmother! I just loved seeing how excited these two were. Nathalie’s grandmother had a history working on the Hill and frequently visited the Mall on her breaks, so it was extra special to take photos of these two together here!
Nathalie’s session was the first to be heavily impacted by Lincoln’s construction project. Luckily, we knew about this well in advance and were able to plan a session that still allowed us to photograph some iconic DC views without fencing, orange barricades, and construction vehicles.
The initial part of her session was spent capturing stunning portraits with the Washington Monument and Reflecting Pool as the backdrop.
The session extended to the DC War Memorial, adding a unique dimension to her session. The walk across the mall to the Memorial is worth the effort, offering magnificent views and a different setting for the celebration of Nathalie’s accomplishment… just be sure to bring your best walking shoes if you opt for this particular session itinerary! It is a HIKE!
Nathalie aspires for a career in forensic psychology, aiming to work in a field focused on supporting exploited and missing children.
Her ambition reflects her compassionate spirit and her drive to make a difference in our world. Nathalie’s journey is a testament to the power of persistence. Balancing a full-time job while pursuing a degree online is no easy feat, but Nathalie did it – and with flying colors! She serves as an inspiration to many who are walking a similar path!
With her dedication, big heart, and gentle nature, Nathalie is set to achieve remarkable success in her chosen field. She is a shining example of the potential that lies in each of us to make a significant positive impact on the world.
Nathalie’s graduation session at the DC War Memorial was more than just a grad session— it was a celebration of her journey, her achievements, and her bright future.
It stands as a reminder that every milestone is worth celebrating in its unique way and in your own time! I can’t wait for you to scroll through this beautiful session, so let’s get to it!
PS Future grads dreaming of a photoshoot at the Lincoln Memorial should note that it’s currently under construction until 2026. Don’t worry, though! There are plenty of alternative locations in DC that offer equally stunning backdrops. This session features one of my recommended itineraries for grads to use throughout construction. You can check out the project details and explore other options here.
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ALTERNATIVE LOCATIONS TO THE LINCOLN MEMORIAL IN WASHINGTON DC
