The Best Places to Take Purdue Graduation Photos at Purdue University
Your Guide to the Best Purdue Graduation Photo Locations
Graduation at Purdue University is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, and your photos deserve to be just as timeless.
Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or your closest classmates, the Purdue campus is filled with iconic backdrops that capture the pride, history, and beauty of your college years.
As a Lafayette photographer who’s photographed dozens of Purdue graduates, I’ve learned which spots shine at golden hour, which ones are best for crowds, and how to capture those “wow” moments that make your photos unmistakably Purdue.
Read: My BEST TIPS for your Purdue Graduation Photos
The Purdue Bell Tower: Timeless and Symbolic
Purdue Bell Tower in the background
I like to start every session at a location every Boilermaker recognizes, the Purdue Bell Tower.
Standing tall at the heart of campus, it’s a symbol of accomplishment, community, and Purdue pride.
Why it’s great:
Central campus views with classic Purdue architecture all around.
Stunning lighting during both morning and evening sessions.
Works well for both solo and group portraits.
Pro Tip: During the peak photo season, evenings are busier than mornings. If at all possible, choose a morning session time.
The Engineering Fountain: Most Recognizable
Purdue Engineering Fountain
Located between the engineering buildings and Hovde Hall, with the Purdue Bell Tower in the background, the Engineering Fountain is one of the most recognizable photo spots on campus.
Why it’s great:
The structure of the fountain and water movement make for dynamic shots.
Perfect for wide-angle lens compositions.
Excellent during both morning light and golden hour when sunlight hits the fountain mist.
Pro Tip: This can be a good place to do a champagne spray.
Hovde Hall Steps — Elegant and Classic
Purdue Hovde Hall
For a formal, timeless look, the Hovde Hall steps are unbeatable.
Why it’s great:
Clean symmetry and columns evoke tradition and prestige.
Works beautifully for cap toss or “walking the stairs” shots.
Ideal if you want professional-looking images for LinkedIn or family prints.
Pro Tip: Evening light hits these steps beautifully, but morning light is good, too. I like to use this spot to take a few professional headshots.
The Gateway to the Future Arch: Prominent Landmark
The Gateway to the Future Arch is located at the corner of University and Stadium.
The Gateway to the Future Arch provides an iconic frame for your photos.
Why it’s great:
Architectural detail adds depth and interest.
Offers that quintessential Purdue look.
Typically much less busy than the State Street Arch
Favorite location for Champagne spray pictures
Pro Tip: If this spot is on your wish list, then try to schedule your pictures before the peak photo season hits. Both arches are a very popular photo spot, and the lines can be long.
The Purdue Union: Historic Landmark
Historic Purdue Memorial Union, West Lafayette Campus.
For those who want greenery and campus architecture in one frame, the Purdue Union gives you the best of both worlds.
Why it’s great:
Wide open spaces perfect for groups.
Easy transitions between multiple landmarks.
Offers space for fun shots with family, champagne, or friends.
Close to Harry’s Chocolate Shop in case you want to get pictures there, too.
Pro Tip: This is a great spot to stop at on the way to the Arch. The “Purdue” hedge bushes are also a popular background for pictures.
Bonus Spots Purdue Grads
Loeb Fountain: Often overlooked, but it is a beautiful spot for pictures and is often less crowded.
Harry’s Chocolate Shoppe: Favorite spot to do the champagne spray pictures.
Unfinished P: Quickly becoming another photo location favorite.
FAQ: Purdue Graduation Photos
Q: When is the best time to schedule Purdue graduation photos?
A: Late March, all of April to early May. Evenings are always popular, but morning light works well to avoid crowds. The month of May is incredibly busy with graduation photos on campus, and the lines will be long.
Q: How long does a Purdue graduation session take?
A: I offer three package options: 30 minutes, 60 minutes, and 2 hours. The most popular package is the 60-minute session. During a 60-minute session, we are usually able (depending on crowds) to go to three iconic locations. However, to get in more locations, the 2-hour, deluxe package is the best. If you choose the 30-minute mini session, we will be limited to your choice of just 2, close together, locations.
Q: Can I include my family or friends?
A: Absolutely. Group photos are welcome and make your gallery more personal. You can include some pictures of your family! If you want to do a friend session, you can include up to 3 friends at no additional charge. Including your significant other in some pictures is also a popular thing to do!
Q: Do I need a permit to shoot on campus?
A: No photography permit is required for personal sessions on campus grounds.
Ready to book your Purdue graduation photos?
👉 Contact Heather Corbin Photography to reserve your session date before spots fill up.
