How to Plan Graduation Photos in London
Kamimoto Photography TeamWorking photographers in London
· 5 minute readPublished 13 August 2026
What to know before you plan
Graduation is one of the few days when your university, family and friends are all part of the same story. In London, however, the day can move quickly: you may need to register, collect a gown, meet guests, attend the ceremony and return academic dress within a fixed timetable.
Many graduates only start thinking about photographs after the ceremony time is confirmed. That raises practical questions about whether to shoot before or afterwards, how long a group needs and whether a campus and London landmark can fit into one session. This guide answers those broader planning questions first, followed by the Kamimoto policies you should know before booking.
Academic-dress and collection rules vary. For example, UCL’s current graduation guidance requires the correct dress for the award and sets designated collection times.
Planning questions
What makes a good graduation photo location in London?
A university campus gives the photographs a personal connection to the degree, while a London landmark makes the city part of the story. Choose according to what matters most, then consider gown return times, group mobility, crowds and the distance between locations.
Should graduation photos be taken on the ceremony day or another day?
The ceremony day includes the atmosphere, family and official gown, but the timetable can be busy. A separate day is calmer and gives more freedom with light and locations, although you may need to arrange a gown separately.
What normally happens during a graduation photoshoot?
The photographer will confirm a simple plan, begin with individual portraits, then work through family and group combinations, movement and detail photographs. If time allows, the session can finish at a second nearby viewpoint.
How can I check whether a photographer is available?
Send Kamimoto your date, preferred time, university and approximate group size. Availability should be confirmed before making other photography arrangements.
Is it better to take photographs before or after the ceremony?
Either can work. Before the ceremony often gives you a fresh gown and a predictable starting point; afterwards can feel more relaxed but ceremonies may overrun. We recommend comparing the ceremony, gown collection and return times first.
What time is best for graduation photographs?
The best practical time is one that leaves a safe margin around registration and the ceremony. Softer morning or later-afternoon light can be flattering, but the university timetable and gown access usually matter more.
How long should I book for one graduate or a group?
One hour can suit one graduate with family at one location. For two or more graduates, book at least two hours so everyone has individual, group and family photographs without rushing.
Can we include the campus and a London landmark?
Yes, if the route is realistic. One hour is normally one location; two hours can cover two nearby areas. A distant landmark may leave less time for photographs because travel counts as session time.
Does travel between locations count as session time?
Yes. The session continues while travelling between locations. Ask Kamimoto to help choose an efficient order and meeting point.
Can we take family, group and solo photographs?
Yes. Tell us who is joining beforehand so the photographer can plan the important combinations. Large groups may benefit from a two-hour session.
Booking with Kamimoto
Booking with KamimotoCan I change outfits, and does Kamimoto provide a gown?
Outfit changes are allowed but count as session time. Kamimoto has a general graduation gown of standard quality; it is not specific to a university. Hire the correct academic dress through your university or approved supplier when required.
Booking with KamimotoWhat if the ceremony is late or the weather changes?
Client rescheduling is allowed up to three days beforehand, subject to availability. A same-day change is not normally allowed, although you may ask the photographer. Build a buffer around the ceremony and contact us promptly if a serious disruption occurs.
Booking with KamimotoHow do payment and delivery work?
A booking fee confirms the session and is lost if the booking is cancelled. The remaining payment is requested separately. Standard edited photographs are normally delivered within two to three days. Check the current website or ask the admin for package prices and quantities.
Need an answer for your exact plans?
Send Kamimoto the date, timings and references. We will explain what is realistic before you book.
Discuss your plans →