Cambridge graduation photography: A complete guide for students & parents

Cambridge Degree Ceremonies: When and Where

Cambridge University holds General Admission degree ceremonies in June and January, with individual colleges holding their own ceremonies at different times. Most Cambridge colleges hold their main graduation ceremonies in the last two weeks of June, with ceremonies in the Senate House followed by photographs in college grounds. January ceremonies are smaller and less crowded — and consequently produce calmer photograph conditions.

The Best Photography Locations in Cambridge

King's College Chapel lawn and the Gibbs Building — the long Baroque range facing the chapel — are the most iconic Cambridge graduation settings. The combination of the chapel's Perpendicular Gothic towers and the formal lawn is globally recognised. Trinity College's Great Court and the Wren Library on the Backs are exceptional alternatives with slightly less competition from other photographers on ceremony days.

Clare College Bridge is the most beautiful of Cambridge's river bridges for portraits. The Bridge of Sighs at St John's is almost as photogenic and somewhat less known. The Garret Hostel bridge offers magnificent views down the Cam towards the Backs and catches the best light of any river crossing in the city.

Timing Your Session

Schedule your portrait session either before the degree ceremony (morning light is excellent in June) or within 2–3 hours after — energy is high and everyone is still dressed. Avoid the late afternoon on ceremony days when tiredness sets in and the light deteriorates. I work with clients to identify the precise time window that works best for their ceremony schedule and the available light.

What to do on the Day

Collect your academic dress the evening before — gowns crease badly in storage and benefit from hanging overnight. Wear comfortable shoes that can handle grass and cobblestones; you'll be walking more than you expect. Bring lip balm and face powder for touch-ups. Brief family members in advance about the session plan so they know what to expect and are ready to move between locations efficiently.

For International Students

Many Cambridge graduates return from overseas specifically for their degree ceremony. If you're travelling internationally, it's worth scheduling an additional portrait session the day before or after the ceremony — the ceremony day itself is often too compressed to get the best portraits, and a dedicated 90-minute session in good light produces significantly better results than quick portraits in between other commitments.