Honors Theses
Date of Award
Spring 4-17-2025
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Department
Integrated Marketing Communication
First Advisor
Dennis Irwin
Second Advisor
Amanda Sams
Third Advisor
Richard Gentry
Relational Format
Abstract
The rise of college students starting photography businesses, particularly in graduation portraits, has transformed the creative and entrepreneurial landscape in the South. This thesis explores the senior portrait culture at the University of Mississippi, analyzing its rapid growth through the perspectives of photographers and academic experts in Southern Studies. Grounded in eight years of experience as a photographer, this study examines the evolution of the industry, business strategies, and cultural significance. Through interviews with seasoned senior portrait photographers and Southern Studies professors, this research investigates how regional traditions, social media, and consumer expectations have shaped the profession. By analyzing these influences, this study offers insights into the sustainability of photography as a business and the broader cultural role of senior portraits in the South.
Recommended Citation
Minton, Xenia R., "Capturing Tradition: The Business, Branding, and Personal Identity of Senior Portraits in the Modern South" (2025). Honors Theses. 3201.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3201
Included in
Business and Corporate Communications Commons, Communication Technology and New Media Commons, Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations Commons, Marketing Commons, Mass Communication Commons, Other Communication Commons, Photography Commons, Public Relations and Advertising Commons, Social Media Commons