Looking for a Place to Take Grad Photos? These Spots Are Perfect
Congratulations, #BU2026! Ready to take your graduation photos to the next level? BU staff photographer Cydney Scott shares three actionable tips to help you capture stunning grad photos that showcase your favorite parts of your time at Boston University. From using campus architecture as a natural frame to choosing meaningful locations to incorporating movement into your shots, these simple techniques can transform your graduation pictures into keepsakes that truly reflect your accomplishment and growth. And if you’re looking for the right spots to put these tips into action, keep reading below!
Nickerson Field
You can’t go wrong with a Nickerson Field photo for graduation. Whether you spent your time at BU around West, East, or Central, everyone has fond memories of Nickerson. From our first Splash! to just throwing a ball around with some friends, it’s always a nice place to be.
Bay State Road
Bay State is beautiful this time of year. Spring has arrived, and the flowers are in bloom, making it the perfect spot for a photo. If you’re looking to add a little flair to your grad pics, you can’t go wrong here.
The Seal on Marsh Plaza
This is the heart of campus: getting a picture with the seal is an absolute must for any senior. It’s tradition for newly minted alums to make their way to the seal and step on it for the first time. If you’re on campus, definitely stop by before you leave. And congrats on making it all four years without getting hit with the seal’s curse.
Psst…the BU Alumni Association will be taking FREE professional photos at the seal all weekend long.
The Boston University Sign on Nickerson
One of the most iconic parts of campus, the BU sign on Nickerson, is a must-stop for your grad photos. If you want to rep your alma mater, this is the place to be.
The Dahod Family Alumni Center (BU Castle)
How many students can say their alma mater has a castle? Well, you can. The Dahod Family Alumni Center, commonly known as the BU Castle, is one of the most interesting buildings on campus. Built by a prominent Boston businessman in 1915, the Castle now stands among students scuffling around it on Bay State Road. You can’t go wrong with a photo op at the Castle.
The BU Bridge
The BU Bridge offers a great view year-round. The Boston skyline hits the Charles River in such a beautiful way. Take advantage of the view and get a grad pic here.
The BU Beach
The BU Beach is one of the best places on campus to relax. Right next to the Charles, it’s the go-to place to soak up the sun whenever the clouds part. If you spent a lot of time on the Beach during your years on campus, you should take one of your grad pics here for the memories.
Boston University Sign on the Fenway Campus
If you’re looking for something different, this could be a good choice. This Fenway Campus sign isn’t used in pictures as often as others on the Charles River Campus. If you don’t want your grad photo to be in the same spot as everyone else’s, this landmark is a good bet.
The Esplanade
Many of us have spent time walking or running up and down the Esplanade. It’s a great way to reconnect with nature when living in the city. During the spring, the Esplanade gets even more charming. Surrounded by pink and white flowers, this is the perfect backdrop for a good grad photo.
Somewhere in Boston
Besides taking pictures around campus, there are great backdrops all around Boston. There are so many famous, cute, interesting, charming places to grab a grad pic—get out there and explore. From the North End to Seaport, Boston is a photogenic town. Don’t miss your opportunity to capture your graduation—wander around and grab a pic.
Congratulations to all who are celebrating graduation! It’s been a crazy four years, but the best is still to come. Go and make the most of this time. Oh, and make sure to capture your grad memories and share them using #BU2026!