The Best Locations for KSU Graduation Photos
By Pierre O’Driscoll | Atlanta Portrait & Graduation Photographer - 350+ Grads
Searching for the best spots for your KSU graduation photos? Kennesaw State University's natural campus is iconically Georgia, and knowing exactly where to shoot can mean the difference between “good enough” photos and capturing shots that perfectly fit your vision.
As an Atlanta graduation photographer who has photographed hundreds of grads, I've spent countless hours figuring out what makes a location worthy of your once in a lifetime photos.
In this guide, I'm using Octavia and Nina's photos breaking down the best locations for KSU graduation photos, plus tips on timing, what to wear, and how to book your session to maximize your comfort and creative vision.
Nina, KSU '25 Grad
Why KSU's Campus is Great for Graduation Photography
Kennesaw State University's campus offers something most Georgia locations can't: an assortment of iconic backgrounds including deep nature, classy backdrops, and multiple campus decorations that collectively boast the brand of a college campus - all within walking distance. For graduation photos, this means you can hit 4–6 totally different-looking locations in a single session.
The campus also has excellent natural light, particularly in the early morning and late evening, and beautiful open spaces, which makes it ideal for the warm, golden-hour portraits that photograph so beautifully.
The Best Spots for KSU Graduation Photos
The Burruss Building
The Burruss Building is one of those spots that Kennesaw students for some reason often overlook. Surrounded by warm tones and smooth natural light, these portraits have a beautifully shaded backdrop, leaving you highlighted. Few grads have a campus this cool, but you can embrace by including a photo here.
Photographers love this spot because:
- The light is soft and flattering
- The framing enable leaning, standing, and walking poses that all look natural
- The classy, orchestrated background subtly leaves all the focus on the grad
Campus Green
This lively part of campus enables you to face whichever direction finds the light that's most flattering. The surrounding greenery creates a backdrop that feels elegant without being busy or distracting.
It's also one of the best spots on campus for a cap toss; the open space and bright backdrop make those celebratory shots look incredible and high-contrast.
This spot works especially well for:
- Natural, casual group poses
- Intimate shots that feel personal rather than posed
- Fun, candid graduation moments
- Champagne pops and cap tosses
Bagwell Staircase
If you want your KSU graduation photoshoot to have some sharper, classy shots, look no further than the inside of Bagwell, conveniently next to Campus Green and the Owl Statue. The natural wood and ornate metal bring structure and depth to your photo session - and make for a great new LinkedIn photo.
This location is great for:
- Naturally-lit photos with a sophisticated backdrop
- Headshots
- Education majors
KSU Owl Statue
If you want your KSU graduation photos to leave zero doubt about where you graduated, this is your spot. With a variety of background options, the spirited landmark is something that most college campuses don't have, and there's no better way to cherish it than including it in your photo gallery.
This location is great for:
- Fun personality photos
- Classic school-pride graduation poses
- Movement photos, walking to and from
- Creatively incorporating different buildings and angles in the background
- Champagne pops
Your Major Building
For those who take pride in your field of study, these spots are great to add into the mix. The grandiose building facades and beautiful interiors sign enable you to work with different angles for the best lighting, and the sharp geometries bring sophisticated character to your portraits.
These spots works especially well for:
- Major-specific school pride photos
- Proud photos with your formal regalia
- Intentional photos for professional use (LinkedIn)
The KSU Sign
No KSU graduation photo gallery is complete without “the” shot in front of the beloved sign. This campus landmark features scholarly architecture and school spirit, making a beautiful backdrop from multiple angles.
Your photographer can capture:
- Classic school-pride graduation poses
- Candid-style casual portraiture
- Seated poses
- Cap tosses
Because of how recognizable it is, the sign is often a centerpiece shot that anchors the rest of your KSU graduation photo session. Just make sure for evening sessions it's close to sunset to avoid harsh lighting.
Why Hire a Professional KSU Graduation Photographer?
Kennesaw State University's campus is beautiful, and beautiful locations alone don't guarantee great photos. A professional Atlanta graduation photographer brings several things you simply can't replicate with a friend and an iPhone:
- Knowledge of exactly where the light falls at different times of day
- Experience posing graduates naturally so photos don't look stiff or awkward
- Professional equipment that fine-tunes KSU's natural light and classic architecture
- Efficient session planning so you hit 5–6 locations without missing the important shots
- Professionally edited final images delivered in time for graduation announcements, frames, and gifts
- Using composition and lines to emphasize the subject rather than uneven distractions
Your graduation only happens once. The photos from that day are something you and your family will display for decades, so investing in a professional Kennesaw State graduation photographer ensures those photos actually do justice to everything you've accomplished (and fit your vision!)
When to Book Your KSU Graduation Photos
As an Atlanta graduation photographer, I typically start seeing my spring calendar fill up in February, and the best time slots (morning & evening golden hours) go first.
To give yourself the most flexibility, I recommend booking your KSU graduation photo session at least 6–8 weeks before your graduation date. This also ensures there's plenty of time for editing and delivery before you need photos for announcements, gifts, or family.
A few things to keep in mind when planning your session:
- Early morning and late evening light is ideal for most campus locations
- Trees are normally full and green by the end of March
- Spring weekends around graduation ceremonies are the busiest & least flexible (book early)
- Allow 60–90 minutes for a session covering 4–6 locations
What to Wear for Your KSU Graduation Photos
Most graduates love to get even mix of regalia combinations. Most graduation photographers will pose you with the gown on, off, and over the shoulder. I strongly recommend bringing all your regalia.
A few tips for choosing your outfit beneath the gown:
- Solid colors or subtle patterns photograph better than busy prints
- Outfits that feel like you. You don’t have to be overly formal if that's not your style
- For Kennesaw State's greenery-filled campus with rich architecture, navy, white, and warm neutrals all look stunning
- Some spots involves walking, so if you’re wearing heels, you may want a change of slip-ons.
- With busy backgrounds and the attention on you, simple but elegant looks often take the crown.
Book Your KSU Graduation Photos in Kennesaw!
If you're looking for an experienced Atlanta graduation photographer for your Kennesaw State University session, I'd love to work with you. I specialize in graduation and portrait photography on campus, and I know the lighting and poses that makes my college grads go "wow, I look that good??".
Sessions are limited each spring and the best time slots fill up fast. If you're graduating this semester, now is the time to lock in your date.
Click here to view packages and book your KSU graduation photo session.
Can I take graduation photos on KSU's campus without permission?
In most cases, yes — KSU's campus is generally accessible for personal photography sessions. However, some indoor locations may require prior approval with security - including some over 1 week in advance.
How long does a KSU graduation photo session take?
Most sessions run between 60 and 90 minutes, which is typically enough time to visit 4–6 locations across campus. Sessions that include an outfit change may run slightly longer. I build an efficient shot list routine in advance so we're not rushing between spots.
When is the best time of year for KSU graduation photos?
Spring is the most popular time, but fall is actually a hidden gem. If you're a December grad or just want a less hectic experience, a fall session is absolutely worth considering.
What if it rains on the day of my session?
Weather happens! I monitor forecasts closely and will reach out in advance if conditions look questionable. Most sessions can be rescheduled with reasonable notice, and some light overcast conditions actually produce beautiful, even light for portraits.
How soon will I receive my photos?
Turnaround time varies by photographer, but most professional Atlanta graduation photographers deliver a full edited gallery within 2–3 weeks. If you need photos by a specific date for announcements or gifts, mention that when booking and we can plan accordingly. My most popular package offers a sneak peek and 1 week turnaround for this reason!
Can I pop champagne on campus?
Whether it's officially permitted or not, staff and police are very understanding of the festivity of popping champagne at the classic photo spots shown here. Just make sure to keep campus beautiful and clean up any stray corks.
