Taking Graduation Photos on Campus
Graduation season is here. Seniors in blue gowns and decorated caps are being spotted across campus with one mission: get the best graduation photos possible. UIC’s campus has no lack of perfect photo locations. Beautiful architecture, diverse flora, and colorful murals make for great backdrops. No fancy camera or professional photo skills? No worries! We talked to some of UIC’s best photographers from Creative and Digital Services (CDS) for insight on how and where to best capture your special moments.
Eriq Adams is a student photographer who has spent the last two years framing UIC’s campus through the lens of his camera. Prior to working at CDS, student photographer, Eriq photographed athletic events at his high school and worked on the yearbook team. Here are some tips from Eriq for taking the perfect photo.
Tips & Tricks
Eriq advises graduates to get creative with angles. Don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone to capture the perfect moment. Aim to take photos during the late afternoon, when the sun is not as harsh. Avoid noon!
Locations
Bridges outside of ARC: This location gives you the perfect mix of city and campus. Being located in the heart of Chicago, city life is a part of UIC’s culture. Capture your final moments as a UIC student combining the Chicago skyline with the iconic campus.
Mike Fan is a seasoned photographer working to capture UIC through his lens. After graduating with a degree in photography, Mike started his own studio and photographed destination weddings for ten years. In search of a career that gave him more time at home, Mike now works as lead photographer for CDS. Having seen UIC from almost every angle, Mike has some tips for capturing special moments.
Tips & Tricks
Mike suggests taking photos 1-2 hours before the sun sets. This time of day is the golden hour, and casts a warm glow around the subject. As for angles, Mike likes to get shots from 4 different vantage points. Get high, get low, get close, and get far. Using a range of angles may allow you to get something no one has seen before.
Locations
Mike recommends getting a few shots outside Student Center West, between the Sports and Fitness Center and the College of Nursing. This location has rows of trees that help frame the subject in the photo. Looking for an extra special photo-op? Mike advises students to consider places where they have spent the most time on campus. Choose locations that hold extra special meaning. Personal spots will hold a special place in your heart when you look back at these photos years laters.
Adam Biba has had a love for photography most of his life. After graduating college with a degree in photography, Adam photographed weddings and worked as a photography assistant, which led him to UIC. As Photography and Video Production Lead for CDS, Adam has photographed UIC no matter rain or shine. Here are Adam's tips for getting the perfect shot.
Tips & Tricks
Adam advises students to capture photos in the early morning or late afternoon, in order to avoid the harsh mid-afternoon sun. If you do find yourself taking photos mid-afternoon, find an area with shade to enhance the quality of your photos. Make sure your photos aren't taken from the same angle. Move around and add variety to your shots. Most importantly, make sure to have fun and photograph with people you are comfortable with.
Locations
Locations like the Quad, the ARC, and the area surrounding University Hall are all contenders for getting the best graduation photos. Depending on the time of year, try to incorporate some greenery, or snow covered trees (we didn't forget about winter graduates!).
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Graduation may signify the end of an important chapter in your life, but it doesn't mean your college memories are gone. Throw on your cap and gown and use these tips to capture memories on the campus you called home for all these years.