For many graduates, commencement is an important event to capture both as a memory in the moment and to look back on. Here are some spots around campus to take your cap and gown pictures.
Sample Gates
A classic spot for any student, visitor or graduate is the Sample Gates located across from Kirkwood Avenue. These limestone gates represent the gateway between IU and Bloomington, according to Visit Bloomington.
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Showalter Fountain
Not only does the Showalter Fountain provide an eye-catching backdrop for graduation, but it also makes a great area to get photos of throwing caps in the air or opening a bottle of champagne. Surrounded by the IU Auditorium, the Lilly Library and the Eskenazi Museum of Art, many seniors come to these different spaces to capture graduation photos. The Showalter Plaza is located at 1296 E. Seventh St.
Woodburn Hall Clock Tower
Near the Showalter Fountain and the Indiana Memorial Union is the Woodburn Hall Clock Tower on North Forrest Avenue. While there are three other clocks located on campus, the central location of this clock makes it near other photo spots and the trails in the back provide an aesthetic background compared to the others.
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To avoid unproportionate photos due to the clock’s large size, We Are IU suggests posing an Eiffel Tower or Leaning Tower of Pisa approach by standing on one of the benches nearby and pretending to hold or lean against the clock.
Luddy School of Informatics, Computing and Engineering
Located at 700 N. Woodlawn Ave., the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing and Engineering is a great place to capture professional looking graduation photos. It also makes a convenient spot to take headshots. With the building’s large windows, this allows lots of light to come in, making your photos look bright and clear.
