Senior photos are an incredibly valuable set of memories that every college student will want to capture! At Sydney Rose Portraits, I strive to make this experience as simple for you as possible and also allow you the freedom to express yourself with the photos we take. Here are some of the best spots on campus and times to take your senior photos.

There is nothing I love more than a morning senior shoot, and you know it’s something special when I say that because I am not a morning person! Especially in the hotter months, one of the many perks of an earlier session is that you can beat the worst of the sun while getting the best of the light. Right after sunrise makes for a beautiful morning glow on campus without having to sacrifice your comfort!

Another reason to set that earlier alarm is because you can beat a lot of the crowds as well. Not many people are up early for classes or senior sessions, so you will likely have your pick of locations with less waiting time and fewer pedestrians in the background.

On the flip side, right at sunset is my other recommendation for the best senior photo times. The sunsets here in Clemson are absolutely stunning. The sky turns those quintessential tiger colors, and nothing brings senior photos together like some orange and purple school spirit.

As for locations, let's start with the classics!

Sikes Hall is an amazing location to get those key shots for mom and dad. The brick building and the white steps are simple and always turn out really well, and you can spice it up by doing a hat toss or popping some champagne. I love having students sit on the steps and do various poses. No shot on Sikes has to look the same!

The same can be said for Tillman and the Reflection Pond. These traditional on campus places really say “Go Tigers!” You can also utilize other portions of the library besides the reflection pond. I love to play with the architecture on other floors and from the balconies and library bridge.

Another favorite of mine, that works particularly well for duos or groups, is in front of the stadium. What’s more Clemson than the gameday spot itself? And nearby is also the iconic Tiger Walk if you’re feeling extra adventurous!

A Clemson landmark that I feel is under appreciated in terms of grad photos is the bell in Carillon Gardens. Students often walk by and fail to even consider it, but it makes for some really cute shots!

But if you’re looking for some more out-of-the-ordinary locales, or more personal ones, think of places on campus that are important to you. I stress personalization in all of my shoots, but especially for senior photos. These are a time for you to reflect on your hard work these past four (or three) years, so think of what — or where — made it special. Was there a classroom or building where you had a career changing class? Was there a floor of the library where you spent long nights studying?