Sure, we all love the Rotunda! But there are SO many other spots on the University of Virginia’s Lawn that are great for a UVA grad session! And after capturing more than 1,000 fourth years during UVA grad photoshoots, we know a lot about the Lawn. So let’s talk about our 6 favorite spots to take grad photos during a UVA grad session!

 

 

1. The Lawn In Front of the Rotunda

The Lawn in front of the Rotunda is obviously the classic spot to start your UVA grad sesion! Picture this: you, your cap and gown, with the majestic Rotunda standing tall behind you. It’s like stepping straight into a UVA postcard! With its timeless elegance and historical significance, this spot guarantees a picture-perfect moment to commemorate your big day.

 

 

However, it’s always where we often end our UVA graduation photoshoots any time there’s a champagne pop! Whether you’re going solo or popping bottles with the entire squad, you can’t go wrong with your heels on the Lawn and the Rotunda as your backdrop.

 

 

2. The Rotunda Steps, Portico, and Raised Walkways

Next, head on over to the Rotunda steps and grab a seat on those iconic stairs. Or, walk right past the steps and take a few photos beneath the Rotunda’s portico. Bonus points for catching that golden hour light!

 

 

If the lighting is right, you can even head just beyond the portico onto the raised walkways. Whether doing walking photos with the squad, or sitting while the sun rises over your back, you can’t go wrong up here either!

 

 

3. The Colonnades

When you’re ready to add a touch of elegance to your UVA grad session, look no further than the Colonnades. These covered walkways exude old-world charm and provide the perfect frame for solo shots and group pics alike!

 

 

And while you’re there, the leading lines make for some great walking photos!

 

 

4. The East Courtyard

Once you’re done in the colonnades, your next stop is nearby: the East Courtyard! These long benches offer some of the best spots on Grounds for a seated shot of any size!

 

 

However, for the bold fourth years among us, it’s time to ditch the heels and get your legs wet! Climb on into the fountain, and splash around for some really memorably (and Instagram-worthy) images!

 

 

5. The Gardens

If things are too crowded on the Lawn, have no fear! (How to take your UVA grad photos with a less crowded Lawn here). Not to mention, if you’re in the mood for more serene greenery and maybe even some blooms in your graduation photos, this is your spot! Each of UVA’s 10 gardens is completely unique, and each flowers at a different time. So if you don’t mind exploring a bit, let your photographer know you want to check out the gardens!

 

 

6. North of the Rotunda (Near the Corner)

The opposite side of the Rotunda is another great option if the Lawn is just too packed with people. Especially for an evening session! So head over to the statue of Mr. Jefferson, or even ditch the Lawn altogether and head to the corner. Who says you can’t take a cap and gown pic inside Bodo’s at 7:30 AM?!

 

 

Ready for your Own UVA Grad Session?

To be honest, you really can’t go wrong anywhere around the Academical Village. After all, the University of Virginia’s Lawn offers such a wealth of breathtaking backdrops for each and every UVA grad session. From the timeless elegance of the Rotunda to splashing around in the fountain, each locale provides a unique opportunity to make your UVA grad session totally yours! So click here to learn more and sign up for your own session this spring with UVA’s #1 graduation photography team!