Best University of Virginia Grad Photographer
effortless portraits styled
with timeless artistry
celebrating hoos since 2014
An achievement decades in the making - graduation!
Celebrate with a personalized portrait experience that captures the joy of this time in your life and the beauty of our university.
As a fellow grad who's spent over a decade photographing at UVA,
I provide hands on planning, easy-to-follow posing, vibrant imagery, and exceptional service throughout your experience.
effortless portraits styled with
timeless artistry
the people
THE feeling
imagery that preserves
the moment
She was flexible, patient, and very professional. My family is thrilled with the photos she took and I'd recommend her to all my friends! - Elaina
"Normally I don’t see myself as being photogenic but she made me feel very comfortable and beautiful in front of the camera. " - Genna
I am SO happy with the results! She is such a joy to be around, and I would recommend her to anyone! - Stephanie
Xiaoqi captured some of my favorite photos ever of my hubby and I.... She’ll make any self conscious girl feel like a queen. - Marissa
Xiaoqi was very professional and so much fun to work with!! I'm so glad I chose to work with her for my graduation portraits!! - Jake
Hi, I’m Xiaoqi (she/her; pronounced "cho-chee"), your local Charlottesville grad photographer and fellow Hoo—which means I know all the best spots around Grounds for your grad session!
Celebrating with new grads remains a sentimental highlight of each spring season for me. It wasn't too long ago that I was where you're at now.
I spent most of my last semesters in pre-renovation Gilmer Hall as I worked on the requirements for my Psychology and Cognitive Science majors. Around Grounds, you could find me capturing student life and events for Cavalier Daily and other clubs. I especially loved working with fashion organizations like C.R.A.V.E., FFC, and V-Mag, which helped me explore more creative avenues.
I can't wait to hear about your time at UVa!
MEET XIAOQI
COME SAY HELLO
I’ve always felt thankful for the opportunities I’ve had to pursue an education. If you feel the same, I invite you to help me give more girls that opportunity.
I'm a Kurandza Giveback Partner, which means that I donate $600+ dollars from our business revenue to Kurandza's cause every year. This comes from our graduation portrait sessions and helps Kurandza's #IStandForGirls campaign. We’ll be directly supporting their holistic girls education program! Visit Kurandza's website to learn more. Be sure to meet the team, including co-founders Elisabetta and Percina (featured to the right)
Investment averages $500/grad for groups and $950 for solo sessions. See below for more detailed information.
details + investment
My full service portrait experience includes guidance from planning and posing to selecting imagery and artwork. All sessions are tailored to reflect the vision of the client. Digital upgrades include matching artwork credit.
+ Planning | Consult & styling with Xiaoqi (studio owner); Dedicated inclement weather back-up date
+ Experience | 1-2 hour session; Posing guidance and creative vision; Multiple locations around the Lawn; Outfit change option
+ Imagery | 10 Images included ($200 artwork credit); Signature vibrant refined editing style; Zero-hour proofing with same-day sneak peeks; 3-7 Day Turnaround; Online Gallery for 1 Year
+ Artwork | Complimentary design services; professional print labs
Session Fee - 750
+ 25 | One image
+ 200 | Ten images
+ 750 | Full solo gallery (1-1.5 hrs session)
+1250 | Full group gallery (1.5-2 hrs session; individual galleries)
The Grad collection
1 ) What is the best time for my session?
I'll give recommended times that are early in the morning (starting at sunrise) or in the evening (1.5-2 hrs before sunset). Working around golden hour gives us the most soft, flattering light.
2) Where do sessions take place?
UVA Sessions take place around the Lawn and Rotunda, but we can customize for other locations.
3) How long are sessions?
We'll spend 1-1.5 hours creating portraits together. For groups that want a full gallery of solo and group portraits, sessions are 1.5-2 hours. Plan for another hour after your session to select images.
4) What should I bring?
On a practical level - comfortable shoes. Common props I see are champagne, flags, printed photos, favorite books - anything that holds meaning to you. Glitter must be eco-friendly and cleaned up.
5) What should I wear?
I always recommend investing in beauty services to look and feel your best. Beyond that, it's up to you how dressed up or casual you'd like to be.
Bonus tips - Steam your gown and try it on in advance to makes sure it fits.
frequently asked questions
