University Of Dayton Senior Pictures UD Senior Photos Dayton Flyers Senior Pics

August 17, 2023

There are not enough words to describe how much I love creating UD senior pictures on the University of Dayton campus. Within the span of two spring weekends this year, I photographed two groups of UD seniors both in groups and individually. I loved this so much because I love senior photos and I worked at UD from 2007-2021. I know and have photographed every inch of that campus. It is amazing to me to get to photograph college seniors at the height of the graduation year.

UD Senior Pictures Weekend 1

The first-weekend group I photographed was five best friends who were graduating from UD together. We started the session at the Chapel Of The Immaculate Conception on a fairly cool morning. Around the chapel are brick buildings, flowers, and blooming trees. I always like to incorporate St. Joe’s courtyard into my senior pictures when on campus. It is a nice, shady, wind-shielded area that is beautiful. Once done there, we photographed the iconic University of Dayton sign on Brown Street. We ended the senior photography session with UD senior photos in front of Tim’s, where the ladies popped champagne bottles. The owner even let us in to capture some cool shots on the dance floor.

UD Senior Pictures Weekend 1

The second-weekend group was 20 friends who all wanted various combinations of people. They were highly organized, making my job so easy. We tackled the large group first, mostly in front of the UD arch by Brown Street and Stewart Street. We then photographed the smaller groups and ended the day with individual photos and head shots.

Both groups were great, and I thank them for being so wonderful to work with.

University of Dayton senior photos UD flyers college

Group Senior Photos At University Of Dayton

Tips For Photographing Groups Of Graduating UD Seniors

Be Intentional When Arranging the Group

Don’t just line everyone up shoulder-to-shoulder. I create layers and levels to add depth and interest to the student group. I have taller students stand in the back, shorter ones kneel or sit in front, and use stairways, benches, or natural inclines if available. At UD, this is very easy due to the different buildings on campus. I aim for a balanced but slightly asymmetrical arrangement so it looks dynamic rather than stiff. If everyone’s face is visible, I am happy! I also take lots of shots to ensure I got at least one great one.

Capture Energy and Personality

Graduation is a joyful milestone, so I go beyond the formal posed shots. I shoot for candid moments of the group laughing, throwing caps in the air, or walking arm-in-arm. Giving them prompts like, “Cheer as loud as you can!” or “On three, toss your hats!” creates natural movement and emotion. These shots often end up being the favorites because they are authentic.

Pay Attention to Details and Timing

Harsh midday sun can cause squinting and unflattering shadows on faces, especially in large groups. If possible, schedule sessions in the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for softer, more flattering light. Double-check robes, tassels, and sashes before shooting—small fixes can save hours of editing. Again I shoot multiple shots of each pose; in group photos, someone always blinks.

Tim’s Bar – A Must Do Photo Spot For UD Senior Photos

For every University of Dayton undergraduate student, Tim’s or Timothy’s is a must-do photo spot. Often, and employee will allow us into the bar to photograph. We also take photos outside on the patio. There is a large wooden box everyone likes to stand on. The girls always want to spray champagne from there. I love capturing this!

University of Dayton Chapel

Use the steps but also go in front of St. Mary’s Hall. Everyone wants photos on the steps just west of the chapel. Everyone wants afternoon or evening photos. These two don’t work well together. Everyone is looking into the sun. Instead, stand in front of the west side of St. Mary’s and place the chapel in the back ground. This offers a larger, more pleasing view of the chapel. And, as a bonus, no one is staring into the sun!

The Arch At Stewart Street And Brown Street

The main entrance to UD is at the corner of Brown Street and Stewart Street. There is a large brick arch that goes across the street and leads you onto campus. Student love being photographed there with the campus houses in the background. It can be a busy entrance, so early morning is best. (for lighting too)

Student Neighborhood

Living in the student neighborhood is a right of passage for every UD student. So, many groups of graduating seniors want photos in front of their final student house. Usually the house has a tiny porch, so I always have to get creative for photos. I am happy to make their senior sessions fun!

UD Senior Photo Shoot On Campus Spring Graduates 2024

During the Spring of 2024, I was hired by several parents to create memorable University of Dayton senior photos. A UD senior photo shoot is one of my favorite photography gigs that I can do. I worked at UD for 14 years, so I know all of the important parts of campus. I have taken thousands of photos on campus, so I am extremely qualified to shoot senior pictures at UD.

How I Managed 20 People And 2 Dogs

When everyone showed up, there were several students and a total group of around 20 people. There was one wagon, a couple of kids, and two dogs. For many photographers, this would have been highly stressful. For me, this was just another day. I make my living photographing weddings, so a group of 20 people was no big deal.

UD Senior Photo Shoot Can Be For Anyone

Even if you didn’t attend UD, the campus is a beautiful location for Dayton senior pictures. Although you can see many of my photos include the UD sign or the UD chapel, your photos don’t have to. We can use any of the campus buildings, parks, and green spaces to create beautiful photos. The red brick and green grass make for great backdrops.