Graduation is always a big deal, but for Laura, it was monumental.



I had the absolute honor of capturing her Eastern Washington University senior photos right on campus in Cheney, WA—and this session was unlike any I’ve done before. Laura’s session wasn’t just about marking her academic achievement; it was about celebrating her personal growth, too. Over the past few years, she’s faced the challenges of living with bipolar disorder—and not only did she navigate college life, she did so while working tirelessly toward healing, peace, and balance. Now, standing on the other side of it, Laura wanted to celebrate that victory in a way that was raw and real.

Laura smiles in graduation cap with historic Eastern Washington University Showalter Hall in the background.
Laura smiles in graduation cap with historic Eastern Washington University Showalter Hall in the background.
Laura smiles in graduation cap with historic Eastern Washington University Showalter Hall in the background.
Laura smiles in graduation cap with historic Eastern Washington University Showalter Hall in the background.
Laura smiles in graduation cap with historic Eastern Washington University Showalter Hall in the background.
Laura smiles in graduation cap with historic Eastern Washington University Showalter Hall in the background.
Laura smiles in graduation cap with historic Eastern Washington University Showalter Hall in the background.
Laura smiles in graduation cap with historic Eastern Washington University Showalter Hall in the background. Holding photo of her late dad

A Graduation Story of Strength and Style at Eastern Washington University


That’s why, in addition to the classic cap-and-gown portraits on the red-brick pathways and signature EWU landmarks, Laura brought something incredibly personal: a collection of all her old prescription bottles. It was her way of saying, “This is what I’ve overcome.” It was emotional, empowering, and beautifully vulnerable. I’m still in awe of her strength and honesty.

We wandered through the tree-lined campus, stopping by the PUB, Showalter Hall, and under the arches that every EWU grad knows well. Laura’s smile lit up every photo.

Eastern Washington University senior photos of Laura in cap and gown on the Cheney, WA campus.
Eastern Washington University senior photos of Laura in cap and gown on the Cheney, WA campus.
EWU senior holding past prescription bottles to celebrate mental health journey
EWU senior holding past prescription bottles to celebrate mental health journey
Eastern Washington University senior photos of Laura in cap and gown on the Cheney, WA campus.
Eastern Washington University senior photos of Laura in cap and gown on the Cheney, WA campus.
Eastern Washington University senior photos of Laura in cap and gown on the Cheney, WA campus. Close up of cap.

Outfit Inspo from Laura’s EWU Senior Photos

Laura nailed her look with a mix of classic and trendy. If you’re planning your own graduation photos, I’ve linked some affordable outfit dupes and accessories below so you can recreate her timeless style with ease!

Graduation photos on EWU campus in Cheney, WA with emotional storytelling elements inside of Eastern Washington University PUB
College senior at Eastern Washington University holding prescription bottles to celebrate mental health journey
College senior at Eastern Washington University holding prescription bottles to celebrate mental health journey
Graduation photos on EWU campus in Cheney, WA with emotional storytelling elements inside of Eastern Washington University PUB
Graduation photos on EWU campus in Cheney, WA with emotional storytelling elements inside of Eastern Washington University PUB
Graduation photos on EWU campus in Cheney, WA with emotional storytelling elements inside of Eastern Washington University PUB
Graduation photos on EWU campus in Cheney, WA with emotional storytelling elements inside of Eastern Washington University PUB
College senior at Eastern Washington University holding prescription bottles to celebrate mental health journey

If you’re graduating soon and dreaming of photos that celebrate not just your degree, but your story, I’d be so honored to help you tell it. Whether you’re a senior at Eastern Washington University or a college student anywhere in the Pacific Northwest your journey deserves to be documented in a way that feels true to you. Let’s create something meaningful, joyful, and totally you. Reach out to book your own senior session—I can’t wait to hear what chapter you’re celebrating next!

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