Your Ultimate Notre Dame Graduation Photo Guide
Table of Contents: Your Ultimate Notre Dame Graduation Photo Guide
The Best Spots for Your Notre Dame Graduation Photos
What to Wear to Your Notre Dame Graduation Photo Session
Solo Sessions vs. Group Graduation Photos at Notre Dame
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Notre Dame Graduation Photo Experience
When to Book Your Notre Dame Graduation Photos
What to Bring to Your Notre Dame Graduation Photo Session
Notre Dame Graduation Photo FAQs
Why Your Graduation Photos at Notre Dame Matter
There’s something so special about spring at Notre Dame. The tulips bloom, the magnolia trees open up, and campus feels alive with possibility. If you’re looking for the perfect way to celebrate this milestone, a thoughtful and joy-filled Notre Dame graduation photo session is a beautiful place to start. Whether you’re flying solo or gathering your best people—like these 11 grads I recently got to capture—here’s everything you need to know to make the most of it.
Graduating from another Northern Indiana university? My ‘Ultimate Guide: Northern Indiana Graduation Photos‘ is for you!
The Best Spots for Your Notre Dame Graduation Photos
Notre Dame’s campus is full of meaningful and iconic backdrops. These spots bring so much personality and nostalgia to your gallery:
The Golden Dome
The Golden Dome is timeless, beloved, and arguably the photo that says “Notre Dame.” The intricate architecture and gold shimmer are unbeatable, especially in the golden hour lighting.
Library Lawn (Touchdown Jesus)
Wide open and filled with light, the Library Lawn is great for movement, group shots, and that classic campus vibe. You’ll also get a fun view of the Hesburgh Library mural in the background.
The Notre Dame Stadium
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just appreciate the atmosphere, Notre Dame Stadium makes a powerful, energetic backdrop. It’s bold, it’s iconic, and it always feels like a celebration.
The Grotto
The Grotto is peaceful, reflective, and always meaningful. Perfect for quiet moments, prayers, or just a pause in the chaos of graduation season.
Main Building Steps
The Main Building Steps are a classic grad photo moment. Whether you’re tossing your cap or standing tall, it feels historic, grand, and joyful all at once.
Your Dorm
This is where your story unfolded. Whether it’s posing out front or incorporating elements from your room, dorm shots bring a deeply personal layer to your session.
What to Wear to Your Notre Dame Graduation Photo Session
Caps, gowns, and stoles are the go-to, and they always look great in photos. But this is also a chance to tell more of your story:
- Add meaningful pins, cords, or sashes
- Choose outfits underneath that reflect your style—comfy or formal, either way is perfect
- Bring walking shoes between locations. As you know, Notre Dame is a big campus. Your feet will thank you!
You can also bring props or items that mean something to you:
- Olivia wore her Baraka Bouts jacket, representing her leadership and impact through Notre Dame’s all-female boxing club.
- Paulina and Megan brought their white coats from their study abroad in Mexico—shouting out the next chapter in their medical journey.
Every little detail helps make your session unique!
Solo Sessions vs. Group Graduation Photos at Notre Dame
Both are special in their own ways! When I recently got to photograph this group of eleven grads, it was full of laughter, hype, and nonstop support. If you’re thinking of bringing your crew, absolutely go for it.
But if solo is more your vibe—more quiet, more reflective—I’ll meet you there. These photos should feel like you. Honest, joyful, and true to where you are right now.
Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Notre Dame Graduation Photo Experience
- Golden hour is your best friend – Soft light makes everything dreamy
- Pack the little things – Bobby pins, blotting paper, a hair brush
- Have a loose plan – It’s nice to know your top 2-3 must-have spots
- Think about what you want to remember – A club, a class, a friendship, a feeling
When to Book Your Notre Dame Graduation Photos
The spring season at Notre Dame is peak time for photos if you’re hoping for magnolias, tulips, and golden hour magic. I recommend booking your Notre Dame graduation photos at least 2-3 weeks before graduation, to ensure you get your photos back in time! As for the time of day, I always recommend scheduling your session in the evening for the best light. Late April through early May is when everything is in bloom—and also when things fill up fast.
What to Bring to Your Notre Dame Graduation Photo Session
You don’t need to bring much, but a few thoughtful extras can go a long way in making your session feel smooth and personalized. Whether you’re walking all over campus or popping champagne with friends, this short list will keep you prepared and photo-ready!
- Cap, gown, and stole
- Optional extra outfit
- Hairbrush or comb
- Blotting paper or powder for shine
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Memorabilia, signs, or props
- Champagne or confetti (if that’s your vibe)
Notre Dame Graduation Photo FAQs
How long is a session? I usually allot 60-90 mins for each session depending on the size of your group. If you think you might need more time, let’s talk about it beforehand!
Can I bring my family or pet? Always, yes! It might not be a bad idea to think about inviting a friend to come along to help out.
What if it rains? In case of inclement weather, we can always reschedule! I schedule my bookings accordingly to allow for potential reschedules. If it’s not raining but the sky is overcast, don’t fret! Overcast skies still allow for beautiful light.
Will you help with posing? Yes! I’ll guide you through everything so it feels natural and comfortable.
Why Your Graduation Photos at Notre Dame Matter
This isn’t just a photo session—it’s a way to pause and remember what these years meant. We’ll document the little glances, the big laughs, and the feeling of being right here, right now, before everything shifts again.
Whether you’re walking across campus one last time or dancing in your cap and gown with your besties—your Notre Dame graduation photo gallery will be something you’ll carry with you long after you leave.
Let’s make something honest, joyful, and true to you.
Go Irish. Always.
Kind Words From a University of Notre Dame Grad
“Riley is an awesome photographer, she provided great tips on how to pose and also makes sure you like the photos before moving on. She is super kind and her photos are beautiful!” -Casey
Meet Riley- Your University of Notre Dame Graduation Photographer
Hey! I’m Riley—the one behind the camera, the constant hype girl, and your go-to gal for capturing your Notre Dame graduation story with heart and intention.
Photography for me is more than just a job—it’s personal. I believe in making space for presence, for joy, and for genuine connection. My approach is relaxed, natural, and focused on real moments that feel like you—not stiff poses or forced smiles. Think soft light, warm colors, and a gallery that takes you right back to this season of your life.
As a South Bend local and someone who’s photographed countless sessions across campus, I know how to make your Notre Dame graduation photo experience feel easy, thoughtful, and entirely unique to you. Whether we’re chasing golden hour at the Dome or sharing laughs outside your dorm, I’m here to tell your story the way it deserves to be told.
So if you’re ready to document this milestone in a way that feels meaningful, let’s do this together. I’d be honored to help you celebrate.
