Morgan's Graduation Session: From the Cistern to the School of Business
Not every graduation session tells the same story. For Morgan, the story was about earning a business degree from the College of Charleston — and we wanted the photos to reflect both the tradition of the institution and the forward-looking energy of a business graduate ready to enter the professional world.
That's why we split the session between two locations: the Cistern Yard for the classic CofC graduation portraits, and the School of Business building for something more modern and professional. The contrast between the two locations gave Morgan a gallery that covers every angle — the timeless and the contemporary.
Why Business Graduates Should Shoot at Both Locations
The Cistern gives you the iconic CofC shot that every graduate wants. But as a business school graduate, the School of Business building adds a layer to your story. The modern architecture, clean lines, and professional atmosphere of the business school communicate ambition and readiness in a way the Cistern alone can't. Combining both locations in one session is the best way to capture the full picture.
Starting at the Cistern Yard
We started Morgan's session at the Cistern Yard during the early morning when the campus was quiet and the light was filtering through the live oaks. This is the shot every College of Charleston graduate needs — the Spanish moss, the brick paths, the history. It's the image that says "I graduated from CofC" without needing a caption.
For Morgan's Cistern portraits, I focused on a mix of traditional and candid shots:
- The classic pose: Cap on, gown flowing, standing centered on the main Cistern path with the oaks framing the shot
- The celebration shot: Cap toss, genuine smile, the kind of image that ends up framed on the wall
- Detail shots: Close-ups of the cap, tassel, stole, and regalia that document the specific achievement
- Walking shots: Natural, movement-based images that feel less posed and more like a moment in time
Moving to the School of Business
After the Cistern, we walked over to the CofC School of Business on Liberty Street. The energy shift was immediate. Where the Cistern is organic and historical, the business school is modern and polished. Glass, steel, clean geometry — it's a completely different canvas for graduation photography.
This location worked particularly well for Morgan because of what it represents. A business degree from College of Charleston is a professional credential, and photographing a business graduate in front of the actual building where they studied ties the images directly to the achievement.
Using Architecture for Graduation Portraits
The School of Business building offers several elements that translate well to photography:
Glass facades: Create reflections and depth, adding visual interest to portraits
Clean lines: The modern architecture provides strong leading lines that draw the eye to the subject
Covered walkways: Offer shade and directional light for flattering, even illumination
Signage: Including the "School of Business" signage in select shots adds context and pride
What Made This Session Work
The key to Morgan's session was planning. We knew exactly where we were going, what we wanted from each location, and how the two sets of images would complement each other. That preparation meant we could relax during the actual shoot and focus on getting natural, confident expressions rather than rushing between spots.
A few things that made the difference:
- Starting early: The campus was quiet, the light was soft, and we had both locations to ourselves
- Outfit planning: Morgan's outfit worked in both settings — polished enough for the business school, classic enough for the Cistern
- Energy management: Starting at the Cistern (more relaxed, natural setting) helped Morgan warm up before the more structured shots at the business school
- Variety in posing: Mixing formal poses with movement and candid moments gave the final gallery range and personality
Tips for CofC Business School Graduates Planning Graduation Photos
If you're graduating from the College of Charleston School of Business and want graduation portraits that reflect both your academic journey and professional future, here's my advice:
- Book both locations: Don't choose between the Cistern and the business school — do both. The variety is worth it
- Dress the part: Business graduates often look best in a professional outfit under the gown. Think about what you'd wear to an interview — that energy translates well in front of the business school
- Bring your props: Diploma holder, business cards if you have them, a favorite textbook — small props that tell your specific story
- Schedule a weekday morning: The business school area is quieter on weekday mornings, giving us more space to work
- Plan for 90 minutes: Two locations need adequate time. Rushing leads to stiff poses and missed opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions About CofC Graduation Photography
Where is the College of Charleston School of Business for graduation photos?
The School of Business is located at 5 Liberty Street in downtown Charleston. The building features modern architecture with clean lines and glass facades that create a professional backdrop for business graduate portraits. It's a short walk from the Cistern Yard, making it easy to shoot at both locations in one session.
Can I combine Cistern Yard and School of Business for one graduation session?
Yes. The two locations are within walking distance on campus. Combining both in one 1-2 hour session gives you a diverse gallery with both the classic Southern charm of the Cistern and the modern professional feel of the business school.
How do I book a graduation photographer at College of Charleston?
Contact me through visualsbyjoshua.com to book your session. I recommend booking 3-4 weeks in advance during spring graduation season. Sessions include professional editing and a full digital gallery delivered within 1-2 weeks.
What makes the Cistern Yard special for graduation photos?
The Cistern Yard is the historic heart of College of Charleston, featuring centuries-old live oak trees draped in Spanish moss. It's where CofC holds commencement and is recognized as one of the most photographed college locations in the Southeast. The natural canopy provides beautiful diffused light for timeless graduation portraits.
Book Your CofC Graduation Photography Session
Graduating from the College of Charleston School of Business — or any CofC program — deserves graduation photos that match your achievement. Let's build a session that tells your full story.
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