How to Plan for your Oglethorpe Graduation Photos
By Pierre O’Driscoll | Atlanta Portrait & Graduation Photographer - 350+ Grads
Oglethorpe University is one of the best campuses in Atlanta for creating polished, unique graduation photos. The combination of historic castle-like architecture, the Academic Quad, Lupton Hall, tree-lined walkways, and more modern campus spaces gives us a lot of visual range without having to move across a huge campus.
That compact layout also means we can create a gallery with different backgrounds, poses, and moods without spending a significant part of your session walking between locations.
When I photograph Oglethorpe seniors, I usually build the session around the campus’ iconic, recognizable landmarks, then add locations that feel more personal to the graduate’s experience at OU to create a gallery that captures the essence of the Oglethorpe campus while feeling unique to each graduate.
Owen and Harlow, Oglethorpe Grads
Where are the Best Spots to take Oglethorpe Graduation Photos?
Some of my favorite Oglethorpe graduation photo locations include:
- Philip Weltner Library and Lowry Hall
- The Library stairs
- The Academic Quad
- Lupton Hall
- Goodman Hall
- Turner Lynch Campus Center
- The Oglethorpe welcome sign
You don’t necessarily need to photograph every location. In most cases, a stronger gallery comes from choosing three or four spots that offer different architecture, lighting, and opportunities for movement, while also including at least one location that has personal meaning.
If you want to see how the main locations sit in relation to each other before your session, Oglethorpe has an official campus map showing Lowry Hall, Lupton Hall, Goodman Hall, Turner Lynch Campus Center, residence halls, athletic spaces, and visitor parking.
Taking a looking at the campus map helps contextualize which spots you might want to include on your shot list so that you don’t miss any iconic campus photo opportunities.
My Favorite Spots for Oglethorpe Graduation Photos
Oglethorpe’s architecture is one of its biggest strengths. The Academic Quad is surrounded by historic grey granite buildings, giving the campus a castle-like look that is unique from many of Atlanta’s newer or more urban universities.
Stone archways, staircases, large windows, mature trees, open green space, and more contemporary campus areas are all located within a relatively short distance.
The diversity (and proximity) of locations means we can choose from a variety of equally beautiful locations based on the light, your outfit, and the overall look we want for your session.
Philip Weltner Library & Lowry Hall
If you only have time for a few Oglethorpe graduation locations, I would keep this one high on the list. The Philip Weltner Library is located inside Lowry Hall at the heart of campus, and the surrounding area gives us several different photo opportunities without requiring much movement.
We can create wider portraits that show the building, tighter shots against the stone, standing portraits, walking images, and more traditional cap-and-gown photos. It is also a location closely connected to everyday student life, which gives the photos more meaning than choosing a backdrop purely because it looks good.
This location works especially well for full cap-and-gown portraits, formal graduation photos, walking shots, diploma-cover photos, wider architectural images, and portraits with family or another graduate.
I often like starting here because it gives us a polished set of photos early in the session, then we can gradually move into more relaxed and celebratory images.
Goodman Hall
Not every strong graduation photo needs to use the most recognizable building on campus! Goodman Hall gives us another way to use Oglethorpe’s stone architecture while keeping the attention primarily on you.
The stairs, doorways, and architectural lines work especially well for structured compositions. I like using this area for standing portraits, symmetrical images, walking shots, leaning poses, gown-over-the-shoulder photos, and more editorial graduation portraits.
This is usually a location where I can focus more on composition and posing rather than depending on the building itself to carry the image.
Cousins Center
If you want your Oglethorpe graduation photoshoot to have some sharper, modern shots, look no further than the Cousins Learning Center. The glass facade recognizable to all OU students brings variety to your photo session - and makes for a great new LinkedIn photo.
This location is great for:
- Straight-on standing shots
- Headshots
- That must-have photo with all your formal regalia
The Library Stairs
The stairs around Lowry Hall are one of my favorite places to create more editorial graduation portraits. They give us a very different composition from the wider library shots while keeping us in the same general area.
Instead of using the entire building as the background, I can work more closely with the stairs, railings, stonework, and architectural lines to frame you. These photos tend to feel more refined and work especially well for seated portraits, images without the cap, gown-over-the-shoulder shots, tighter compositions, and professional portraits you may want to reuse after graduation.
If you want your photos to still feel connected to Oglethorpe without every image looking like a traditional graduation portrait, this is one of the strongest locations for that balance.
The Academic Quad
The Academic Quad is where I like to create some of the more relaxed and celebratory images in the session. It gives us room for walking shots, cap tosses, group photos, seated portraits, and wider compositions that show more of campus.
Oglethorpe uses the Quad for commencement, which makes it the perfect spot for cap tosses, group photos with friends, walking and movement, seated poses, and wider images that include more of the campus behind you.
If you’re planning on bringing a roommate, friend, sibling, or fellow graduate, this is usually one of the easiest places to include them comfortably as well.
OU Welcome Sign
The Oglethorpe sign gives us the classic, unmistakable graduation image. It is straightforward, but it is also one of the photos families tend to want most, so you won’t want to miss it!
This is usually where I focus on getting a few strong variations rather than spending a large portion of the session in one place. We can create classic standing portraits, a cap toss, images that show off your cords or stole, gown-open portraits, and a few friend or duo photos.
Bonus Locations
Turner Lynch Campus Center
After photographing around Oglethorpe’s historic stone buildings, Turner Lynch Campus Center offers a change in style. Turner Lynch Campus Center is a central part of campus life, and home to the dining hall, bookstore, game room, Career Development, Intercultural Center, and other student spaces.
Visually, the area gives us a more contemporary setting, which helps create contrast within the gallery. It works especially well for professional portraits, headshots, photos without the gown, or clean standing poses.
I always recommend creating at least a few portraits during a graduation session that can still be useful after graduation. Plus, a strong headshot or polished portrait can have a much longer life than a traditional cap-and-gown image (especially on LinkedIn!)
Lupton Hall/the Bell Tower
Lupton Hall is one of the most recognizable buildings on Oglethorpe’s campus, and it is also one of the most meaningful locations for graduating seniors.
Since 2005, Oglethorpe seniors have participated in the Carillon Ceremony. During the tradition, graduates enter Lupton Hall, climb to the bell tower, sign a historic registry, and ring one of the bells by hand. Oglethorpe describes the ceremony as part of the transition from student to alumnus.
That makes Lupton Hall a great location for grad photos. The bell tower gives us a recognizable (and beautiful) architectural backdrop, while the tradition attached adds significance for seniors participating in the tradition.
I like this location for wide architectural portraits, more dramatic cap-and-gown images, school-pride photos, and graduation announcement images. If you are planning your session around Senior Week, it is worth checking Oglethorpe’s current Commencement information before choosing your date, since Senior Week schedules and ceremony details can change each year.
How I'd map your Oglethorpe Grad Photo Route
One of Oglethorpe’s biggest advantages is how efficiently we can move through the main campus. The official campus map shows Lupton Hall, Goodman Hall, Lowry Hall and Weltner Library, and Turner Lynch Campus Center clustered around the central part of campus.
I usually recommend starting with the more polished architectural locations, such as Weltner Library, Lowry Hall, or Goodman Hall. This is a good time to create formal portraits while your cap, gown, hair, and outfit are still exactly where you want them.
From there, we can move toward the Quad for walking photos, cap tosses, seated portraits, and anything involving friends or family. By that point in the session, most people are also much more comfortable in front of the camera.
For the final part of the route, Lupton Hall or the Oglethorpe welcome sign makes a strong finishing point because both locations clearly connect the gallery back to the university.
Planning your Photos Around Oglethorpe Graduation Week
Graduation schedules, requirements, ceremony instructions, and Senior Week events can change from year to year, so I always recommend using Oglethorpe’s official resources when you are planning around commencement.
The university’s Commencement hub is the best starting point for current ceremony dates, Senior Week information, maps, and graduation updates.
Graduates should also review the Information for Degree Candidates page for current guidance on graduation eligibility, cap and gown information, attire, honor cords, diploma details, and ceremony instructions.
For 2026, Oglethorpe required degree candidates to submit their graduation application, resolve account holds, and complete outstanding academic requirements before their degree could be conferred.
It is worth handling those details early so graduation week can be focused on celebrating, family, and photos (rather than last-minute administrative issues.)
Should You Take Oglethorpe Graduation Photos on Commencement Day?
You can, but for a full graduation session, I’d recommend choosing another day.
Because Oglethorpe holds commencement on the Academic Quad, graduation morning brings students, families, faculty, traffic, parking demand, and ceremony logistics into a relatively compact area.
For the 2026 ceremony, graduates were instructed to report to the Library Atrium by 8 a.m., and guests were encouraged to arrive early because parking and seating could fill quickly, meaning the Academic Quad was crowded and busy.
Scheduling your full session separately usually gives us fewer crowds, more control over the light, more time at each location, easier outfit changes, and more flexibility for group photos.
It also means you can enjoy commencement day without trying to fit an entire portrait session around check-in, parking, family plans, and ceremony timing.
Why Hire a Professional Oglethorpe Graduation Photographer?
Oglethorpe'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 Oglethorpe's mix of rich stone and shaded greenery
- 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 Oglethorpe graduation photographer ensures those photos actually do justice to everything you've accomplished (and fit your vision!)
When Should You Book Your Oglethorpe Graduation Photos?
Earlier is generally better, especially for spring graduation.
Morning and evening sessions tend to fill first because those times usually give us the most flexibility with outdoor light. At Oglethorpe, that matters especially, since the campus has a mix of open lawn, mature trees, shaded stone buildings, and more exposed areas.
Different lighting conditions can work well in different parts of campus. Weltner Library, for example, can photograph beautifully on an overcast day because the softer light works well with both the stone architecture and surrounding greenery.
A completely clear sky is not a requirement for strong graduation photos. The important part is knowing which locations work best in the conditions we have.
What Should you Bring to Your Oglethorpe Graduation Photos?
I recommend bringing your graduation cap, gown, stole, honor cords, medals or other academic regalia, diploma cover if you have one, water, comfortable walking shoes, and any hair or makeup touch-up products you may need.
You may also want to bring flowers, an OU item that is meaningful to you, or another personal element you would like included in a few images.
We won’t necessarily photograph the gown the same way throughout the entire session. I usually create a mix of images with the gown fully on, open, over the shoulder, with and without the cap, and a few portraits without the gown at all.
That variety gives you a gallery that works for graduation announcements, family prints, social media, professional profiles, and other uses after graduation.
As a note, Oglethorpe’s own commencement guidance recommends that degree candidates avoid stilettos and platform shoes for the ceremony.
But for photos, while you can absolutely wear the shoes you want in the final images, I still recommend bringing a more comfortable pair for walking between locations.
You may be moving across grass, pavement, stone paths, and stairs throughout the session. Changing into your photo shoes once we reach each location can make the experience much easier without affecting the final gallery.
Helpful Oglethorpe Graduation Resources
Keep these official Oglethorpe resources bookmarked as graduation approaches.
Current ceremony dates, Senior Week information, commencement updates, maps, and graduation logistics.
Information for Degree Candidates
Current guidance on graduation eligibility, cap and gown information, ceremony attire, diploma details, and graduate instructions.
Useful for familiarizing yourself with Lowry Hall and one of the main graduation photo locations.
Helpful for locating Lowry Hall, Lupton Hall, Goodman Hall, Turner Lynch Campus Center, visitor parking, and other campus locations before your session.
A useful reference for campus spaces, student traditions, organizations, and Turner Lynch Campus Center.
Oglethorpe is the best source for current university requirements and graduation logistics. My job is to help you make the most of the campus once it is time for photos.
Book Your Oglethorpe Graduation Photos
Your Oglethorpe graduation gallery should feel connected to the university without looking identical to every other grad session on campus.
That might mean classic portraits at Weltner Library, a cap toss on the Quad, more editorial images around Goodman Hall, and a final portrait with Lupton Hall in the background. It may also mean incorporating a location that is specific to your own experience at OU.
I’ve photographed more than 350 college graduates across Georgia, and I guide every session from beginning to end, including location selection, posing, movement, and overall pacing. You do not need modeling experience or a list of poses prepared in advance.
If you’re looking for an Oglethorpe University graduation photographer in Atlanta, you can view my current session options and availability here:
Oglethorpe Graduation Photo FAQs
Where are the best places to take graduation pictures at Oglethorpe University?
Some of the best Oglethorpe graduation photo locations include Philip Weltner Library and Lowry Hall, the Library stairs, Academic Quad, Lupton Hall, Goodman Hall, Turner Lynch Campus Center, and the Oglethorpe welcome sign. The strongest route usually combines a few architectural locations with an open space and at least one unmistakable OU landmark.
How long should and Oglethorpe graduation photo session last?
It depends on how many locations, outfits, and people you want to include. Oglethorpe’s relatively compact campus makes it possible to create a good amount of variety without spending most of the session walking.
What time is best for Oglethorpe graduation pictures?
Early morning and later afternoon or evening generally offer the most flexibility for outdoor light. Oglethorpe also has a good mix of open and shaded locations, so the best time can depend on which areas you want to photograph.
Should I take my Oglethorpe graduation photos on commencement day?
I usually recommend choosing a different day for the full session. Commencement brings more crowds, parking traffic, family logistics, and time constraints to campus. A separate date gives us more control over the light, locations, and pacing.
Can friends or family join my Oglethorpe grad photo session?
Depending on the photographer and package you book, yes! The Academic Quad is especially useful for friend and group photos because there is enough space to photograph multiple people comfortably.
Can I take graduation photos inside of Oglethorpe buildings?
Building access can vary based on the location, date, university schedule, and campus policies. If an indoor space is especially important to you, confirm current access before your session rather than assuming it will be open.
What should I wear underneath my graduation gown?
Wear something that feels like you and photographs cleanly. Solid colors and simple patterns are easy to work with, but your outfit does not need to be overly formal unless that fits your style. I also recommend choosing something you would be happy to photograph without the gown so we can create more variety.
Do I need to know how to pose before my grad photo session?
No. I provide direction throughout the session, including how to stand, sit, move, where to look, and what to do with your hands.
What if it rains during 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 Oglethorpe Grad 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 take graduation photos on Oglethorpe's campus without permission?
In most cases, yes — Oglethorpe's campus is generally accessible for personal photography sessions. However, some indoor locations or athletic facilities may require prior approval with security.
How long does an Oglethorpe 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 Oglethorpe graduation photos?
Spring is the most popular time, but fall is actually a hidden gem — the foliage on campus is stunning. 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 security are very understanding of the festivity of popping champagne. Just make sure to keep campus beautiful and clean up any stray corks.
