University of Maryland Graduation Photographer 2026 Guide
Everything You Need to Know from a University of Maryland Graduation Photographer
If you’re searching for a University of Maryland graduation photographer, chances are you’re already counting down the days until graduation! Between finishing classes, preparing for commencement, and celebrating with friends and family, graduation season comes quickly, and so do the photo opportunities.
As a University of Maryland graduation photographer, I’ve photographed hundreds of graduates across campus and helped students create graduation photos that feel fun, natural, and true to their college experience.
Whether you’re planning a solo graduation session, photos with your roommates, or a large group session, this guide covers everything you need to know before booking your UMD graduation photos.
Why Graduation Photos Matter
Your graduation photos are more than just pictures in a cap and gown. They’re a celebration of: 4 years of hard work, lifelong friendships, late nights at McKeldin (or Bents), football games and campus traditions, and the organizations and communities that shaped your college experience.
Years from now, you’ll likely forget the exams and assignments. You’ll remember the people, the places, and the memories that made your time at the University of Maryland special. That’s why graduation photos at UMD have become such an important tradition.
When Should You Schedule Your UMD Graduation Photos?
One of the most common questions I receive as a University of Maryland graduation photographer is: When should I take my graduation photos?”
For spring graduates, I typically recommend scheduling your session between March and early May. For fall graduates, October and November usually provide the best weather and campus conditions.
The most popular dates (late April, early May & weekends) tend to book several months in advance, especially around peak graduation season. If you have specific friends you’d like included in your photos, it’s often best to coordinate schedules early.
The Best UMD Graduation Photo Locations
One of the biggest advantages of taking graduation photos at the University of Maryland is the incredible variety of locations available across campus. Whether you’re looking for iconic UMD landmarks, classic red-brick architecture, elegant columns, vibrant greenery, or wide-open spaces, there’s a backdrop to match every style and personality.
Over the years, I’ve photographed hundreds of UMD graduates and have explored nearly every corner of campus. While there are countless beautiful spots to choose from, a few locations consistently stand out for their timeless look, unique character, and ability to showcase the University of Maryland experience. Here are some of my favorite and most highly recommended locations for UMD graduation photos.
McKeldin Mall
McKeldin Mall is the most requested location for graduation photos at the University of Maryland. The tree-lined walkways, open green spaces, white column buildings, and iconic campus views make it a must-stop location during nearly every session.
Testudo
No University of Maryland graduation session feels complete without a photo at Testudo. This is an all time favorite landmark on campus. Graduates, parents, and alumni love taking their photo with him…. HER!
The M
The M is one of my favorite photo locations at the University of Maryland and is often at the top of my clients’ must-have photo lists. Surrounded by seasonal flowers and filled with Maryland pride, it’s one of those spots that instantly says “UMD.”
I love photographing both cap and gown and outfit photos here because it works beautifully for either look. Whether you’re taking solo graduation photos or celebrating with your best friends, The M is a classic location that deserves a spot in your gallery.
Check out Emily & Sam’s session with more fun photos at The M
ODK Fountain | McKeldin Fountain
The fountain is one of those locations that always ends up being a client favorite. Between the water, seasonal flowers, and surrounding greenery, it brings a bright and colorful feel to your graduation photos that looks especially beautiful during the spring semester.
I love stopping here because it adds variety to your gallery and creates a completely different look from some of UMD’s more iconic landmarks. Whether you’re taking solo photos or celebrating with friends, the fountain is a fun location that photographs beautifully year after year.
Memorial Chapel
For graduates looking for a timeless and elegant feel, Memorial Chapel offers beautiful architecture and a completely different look from the rest of campus.
SECU Stadium | UMD Stadium
SECU Stadium is another favorite location of mine for University of M aryland graduation photos! Especially for graduates who spent their college years cheering on the Terps or attending football games with friends.
The stadium offers a completely different look from the rest of campus, with its bold architecture, Maryland pride, and wide open spaces. It’s a great way to add variety to your gallery while incorporating another meaningful part of your college experience.
Even if you’re not a huge football fan, the stadium creates a unique backdrop that instantly feels connected to the University of Maryland and adds a fun, energetic feel to your graduation photos.
Your Academic Building
Some of the most meaningful graduation photos happen outside the building where you spent the majority of your college career.
Whether you’re graduating from the Smith School of Business, Clark School of Engineering, Journalism, Public Health, or another program, incorporating your academic building can make your photos even more personal.
What Should You Wear for Graduation Photos?
Choosing outfits can feel overwhelming, but my advice is simple: Wear something that feels like you. The most successful graduation sessions happen when grads feel confident and comfortable in what they’re wearing.
Popular outfit choices include:
- White dresses, jumpsuits and dress shirts
- Colorful spring dresses
- Business casual attire (bring blazer with you for a professional headshot photo!)
- School colors (think shoes, tie, accessories)
- A T-shirt wit your university logo
- Greek Letters and/or your Organization stole
I created an Amazon list of dresses, ties, shoes and more to help my grads! You can check that out here. I typically recommend bringing multiple outfit options to add variety throughout your gallery as long as your package allows.
A common combination for sessions is:
- One dressy outfit
- One casual or personality-focused outfit
- Cap and gown. Don’t forget your stole, cords and medals too!
Graduation Photo Ideas With Friends
Some of my favorite graduation galleries include best friends, roommates, sorority sisters, fraternity brothers, and significant others. After all, these are the people who experienced college alongside you.
Popular group ideas include:
- Walking through McKeldin Mall together
- Group cap toss
- Champagne celebrations
- Sitting together on the mall lawn
- Recreating photos from freshman year, or your kindergarten graduation
- Showing off your decorated cap
- Hanging out at your college house
These often become some of the most meaningful images from the entire session.
Looking for some group graduation session inspo? Look no further!
The Harvard House girls have you covered – check out their fun session here!
Can Family Members Join Graduation Photos?
Absolutely. Many graduates choose to include parents, siblings, grandparents, partners, or other loved ones for a portion of their session. Including family members is a wonderful way to celebrate everyone who helped support your journey to graduation. If they can’t make it on the day of your photos there’s no need to worry! Every Brenna Marie Photography UMD Grad gets a complimentary 10 minute time slot for photos with their loved ones on graduation week! This past year 28 BMP Grads and their families, friends, and partners came for photos! I don’t know about you guys, but I think this is such a good holiday card moment for the upcoming holidays!
Can I Bring My Dog?
Yes! Dogs are welcome at graduation sessions. I’ve photographed plenty of graduates with their furry family members, and they always add personality and fun to the gallery.
What If I’m Awkward in Front of the Camera?
If you’re worried about posing, you’re not alone. Nearly every graduate tells me they feel awkward before their session. The good news is that you don’t need modeling experience!
My job as your University of Maryland Graduation Photographer
Is to guide you through the entire experience with natural prompts and direction so you can focus on enjoying the moment. Most graduates leave saying the session was much easier, and much more fun than they expected!
How Far in Advance Should You Book a University of Maryland Graduation Photographer?
I recommend booking at least:
- 2-3 months in advance for Spring graduation sessions
- 1-2 months in advance for Fall graduation sessions
Graduation season is one of the busiest times of year, and the most popular dates typically fill first.
Looking for a University of Maryland Graduation Photographer?
Graduation marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Whether you’re celebrating with roommates, family members, your dog, or simply documenting your own accomplishments, your graduation photos deserve to reflect everything you’ve achieved during your time at UMD.
If you’re looking for a University of Maryland Graduation Photographer
I’d love to help create images that feel authentic, joyful, and uniquely you. Ready to start planning your graduation session? Get in touch to learn more about availability and graduation photography packages. Head over to the blog to see more UMD Graduation Sessions
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Brenna Marie Photography is a nontraditional, colorful, true to color, candid University of Maryland Graduation Photographer. Love this Graduation Session and want to see more photos? Head over to https://brennafalzone.com/bmp-grads
Do you need a: Maryland Graduation Photographer, Maryland Senior Photographer, UMD Graduation Photographer please reach out by filling out the contact form on https://brennafalzone.com/bmp-grads
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