Rooftop Grad Photos in Missoula, Montana- Kennedy

When a friend asks you to document something this special, the answer is always yes.

Even though I don’t typically offer graduation sessions, photographing Kennedy’s Missoula grad session was an absolute joy from beginning to end. We met through church, and I’ve loved getting to know her heart over the years — so being able to help her celebrate this incredible milestone felt especially meaningful.

Kennedy is wrapping up her education degree, and her passion for teaching and caring for others shines through in everything she does. As we celebrated the end of one chapter and the beginning of the next, I couldn’t help but feel proud of her — not just for what she’s accomplished, but for the way she’s done it with humility, grace, and kindness.

To make the session even sweeter, Kennedy brought along her husband, Alex. They’ve been such a steady, joyful pair, and the love between them made every photo feel that much more special. We took her grad photos on a rooftop belonging to a close friend — a little hidden gem with an absolutely amazing view of downtown Missoula and the surrounding hills. The combination of golden light, mountain views, and a soft spring breeze made for a setting that felt intimate, elevated, and totally fitting for this moment in their lives.

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Why This Rooftop Session Felt So Unique

Missoula has no shortage of incredible photo locations, but shooting on a rooftop overlooking the city brought a whole new kind of magic. There’s something about being above it all — the bustle of downtown, the winding Clark Fork River below, the distant silhouettes of the surrounding mountains — that makes you stop and breathe it all in.

We had the space entirely to ourselves, which meant Kennedy could relax, laugh, and just enjoy the moment. There were no crowds, no distractions — just the two of them soaking up the last light of the day and everything this season represents.

Rooftop sessions like this are a great reminder that your grad photos don’t have to look like anyone else’s. Whether you want your session to feel classic and timeless or modern and a little bit unexpected, there’s always a way to make it yours.

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Celebrating More Than a Degree

Kennedy’s graduation wasn’t just about finishing school — it was about celebrating the journey she’s been on, the people who have walked alongside her, and the dreams she’s working toward.

As we moved through the session, I could see how much her relationship with Alex had been part of that journey. The way they looked at each other, the ease in their movements, and the quiet encouragement between them spoke volumes. I loved capturing a few intimate, cozy moments between them — the kind of photos that will be just as meaningful ten years from now as they are today.

Including your partner or family in your graduation photos is such a beautiful way to tell the full story. After all, no one earns a degree alone. Whether it’s a spouse, a roommate, a parent, or a best friend — the people who support you deserve to be in a few frames, too.

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Why I Sometimes Break My Own Rules

If you’ve followed my work for a while, you probably know that I specialize in wedding and family photography. I don’t typically take on graduation sessions, but every once in a while, a session comes along that’s just too special to pass up.

That was exactly the case with Kennedy.

Sometimes, saying yes to friends and stepping slightly outside of your niche is a great reminder of why you started in the first place. This session wasn’t about perfectly posed caps and gowns — it was about honoring the moment, celebrating growth, and capturing real connection. And that’s exactly the kind of photography I love most.

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Tips for Meaningful Graduation Photos

Even though this isn’t something I offer year-round, I do think every grad deserves to have photos that reflect who they are and what this season has meant to them. If you’re planning your own session — or helping a friend or partner celebrate — here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Choose a meaningful location: Whether it’s your college campus, your favorite park, or a friend’s rooftop like Kennedy’s, your location should feel personal.
• Bring someone you love: Including your partner, parent, or best friend can make your photos feel more relaxed and memorable.
• Dress like you: Kennedy’s outfit was simple, flattering, and full of personality. She even skipped the traditional cap and gown — because honestly, what mattered most was capturing her.
• Be present: This chapter is ending, and a new one is beginning. Soak it all in. Laugh a little longer. Hold that hug. These photos aren’t just for Instagram — they’re for you.

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