My Favorite Spots for Senior Graduation Photos at the University of Pittsburgh

As another year at the University of Pittsburgh comes to a close, and a flurry of final exams and commencement ceremonies begin, Pitt students prepare to bid farewell to their alma mater and begin their careers. In all the excitement, graduates may even forget one timeless tradition: senior graduation photos. Thankfully, when it comes to senior portraits, it’s a good day to be a University of Pittsburgh graduate! The striking and iconic architecture of Pitt serves as an excellent backdrop for some of the most unique senior grad photos, and it serves as a great opportunity to capture a moment in time when you were still a Pitt grad, and not a doctor, engineer, philosopher, or any number of other things. Plus, it’s an excellent way to show off the fact that you went to Pitt, and I should know, as a fellow Pitt grad myself! #H2P

Here are some of my favorite places to take Senior grad photos at the University of Pittsburgh. As a fellow Pitt alumni, I have the inside scoop on some of the most iconic and historic architecture at Pitt, but if you’ve been playing along, you have probably been here before!

My favorite University of Pittsburgh Senior Grad Photo Locations

1. The Cathedral of Learning and the Cathedral Lawn – My Top Pick for Pitt Senior Grad Photos

 

 

I can hear you saying the word “duh” out loud! The Cathedral of Learning is the most iconic building at Pitt, so it stands to reason it should be in your grad photos. This gothic-inspired building sits at the heart of Pitt campus, and its iconic stone architecture makes for a bold senior photo. It also features the cathedral lawn, with long stretches of stone sidewalk and rows of trees. Also, the nationality rooms are a perfect spot to get some truly unique environmental portraits.

• What Grads love: Iconic, basically obligatory photo of you and Cathy.
• Check out the nationality rooms! 

2. Schenley Plaza

If you’re familiar with Schenley Park, odds are you’ve seen people pop champagne at the Mary Schenley Memorial Fountain. I love to get a wide shot that encapsulates the park itself with Cathy in the background. What could be more celebratory than champagne? It also serves as the perfect break from industrial portraits, instead offering a more lush garden vibe. It’s a great way to capture that time you sat on a blanket in the sun pretending to forget you failed organic chemistry (just me?).

• What Grads love: Popping champagne by the fountain!

3. The Pittsburgh Panther Statue at the University of Pittsburgh

 

Another classic University of Pittsburgh Senior Grad Portrait is captured in front of the iconic Pitt Panther statue. Adjacent to the William Pitt Union, this bronze statue is a symbol of athleticism and panther pride. Speaking of WPU, we can head in there for a brief portrait on the arched stairway in the Pitt Family Room.

• What Grads love: There’s no mistaking you went to Pitt! Some graduates have even ridden the Panther (which is why I have insurance)

4. Schenley Park

If you’re really looking to get away from the city, but still want to keep your grad portraits close to Pitt, Schenley Park is the place for you. Students can be found here any time of day, reading, studying, and relaxing. It’s only a stone’s throw from Pitt campus! Photography opportunities include wooded trails, a lake, and a scenic overlook for cityscape portraits.

• What Grads love: Most seniors have memories here, and it’s a great way to get portraits near Pitt that are less industrial.
• Check out Schenley Park!

5. Heinz Memorial Chapel

While we’re checking out the cathedral lawn, we might as well walk over to the Historic Heinz Memorial Chapel. While the chapel is typically closed to the public, I always take the time to capture portraits against the famous red doors and stone architecture. On days we can get inside, the stained glass provides lighting unlike any other. It is one of the most unique locations for University of Pittsburgh Grad portraits I have ever experienced!

• What Grads love: Iconic red church doors, unique stained glass portraits

Why I Love Capturing University of Pittsburgh Grad Photos

Pitt Seniors have a lot of portrait opportunities to choose from. There is a little bit of everything, from stunning architecture to scenic natural areas. The beautiful landscapes that surround campus are just one more reason I’m proud to be a Pitt alumni, and it’s one of the reasons I love capturing Pitt students more than any other! If you’re looking for a University of Pittsburgh Senior Grad Photographer who knows his way around campus, reach out through my website below!

Let’s have a conversation about senior portrait photography! View my work: Pittsburgh Senior Photography

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