5 Must-Know Tips for Your Notre Dame Graduation Photo Session
The Countdown to Graduation Photos Begins!
The moment the tassel flips, it's official—you're a Notre Dame graduate! But let's be honest, the countdown to those iconic cap-and-gown photos starts way before commencement day. Around Christmas, my inbox starts to light up with excited seniors and proud parents ready to book their graduation photo sessions. Whether it's solo shots or a friend group celebration, a little prep goes a long way. So, here are my five top tips to help you nail your Notre Dame graduation photos with style and zero stress.
1. Plan Early—Because Everyone Else Is, Too!
If you think you're the only one eyeing up the third week of April for your photo session, think again. From class trips to finals and the Blue-Gold Game, April and May fill up fast. Add in Indiana's unpredictable spring weather (hello, rain and wind), and you'll see why planning early is key.
Book your session as soon as you can. Not only will this give you the best shot at your ideal date, but it also allows room for reschedules if the weather doesn't play nice. I shoot several sessions a week, but even my calendar can't stretch to fit everyone last-minute. Don't be that person—get it booked early!
2. Bring Your Stoles, Caps, and Gowns (Yes, Really!)
You earned it—so show it off! Your stole, cap, and gown aren’t just graduation gear; they’re part of the story you're telling. Whether you wear them for the entire session or just a few key shots, they add that classic Notre Dame vibe to your photos.
Pro tip? Pack them in a bag so you can easily throw them on at different spots. Open gown, closed gown, or just the stole—mix it up! And trust me, group shots in front of the Golden Dome with everyone rocking their stoles? That’s Instagram gold.
3. Choose Your Top 3 Locations (And Be Flexible!)
Notre Dame's campus is iconic, but during graduation season, it's also crowded. Photographers and grads flock to the same spots—Main Building steps, Touchdown Jesus, and the Stadium are the big hitters. That means there's a lot of waiting and walking between shots.
Pick your top three must-have locations and prioritize them. It makes the session more relaxed and ensures you get the shots you really want. We’ll talk through your ideas in advance, so we have a game plan and can maximize your time (and minimize the waiting).
4. Decide the 'Who' Early On
Solo shoot? Friend group? Both? Decide early to avoid last-minute chaos. Solo sessions are great at sunrise when the campus is peaceful and quiet—plus, fewer crowds means more photo time and less waiting.
If you're planning a group session, get everyone on the same page early. I price group sessions for up to seven friends, and we can add more for a small extra fee. Huge groups? Let's chat in advance so we can adjust the plan and maybe stick to fewer locations to keep it fun and easy.
5. Don’t Skip the Solo Shots
Even if you're part of a big friend group, take a few minutes for individual portraits. You’ll appreciate having those solo shots to look back on, and they’re perfect for sharing with family or using in future job announcements (hello, LinkedIn profile pic!).
Whether it’s in front of the Golden Dome or under the cherry blossoms, these moments are yours—let's capture them right.
Booking Your Notre Dame Grad Session
Ready to lock in your session? Reach out via email, and let's get you on the books. I keep my schedule flexible during graduation season because I know how important these memories are. We’ll chat through dates, times, and your location wish list.
And yes, I know calling isn’t everyone’s favorite, but trust me—it’s the fastest way to nail down the details. Let's make it happen!
Learn more and book your session here!
Can't wait to capture your Notre Dame memories!