As a former James Madison University alum, I may be a little biased – but I happen to think that the JMU campus is one of the most beautiful in the world. With historic buildings, beautiful trees and landscaping, and picturesque seasons, it’s a gorgeous place to live and learn any time of year. Fortunately, that also means it’s a great backdrop for graduation photos! If you’re approaching graduation (and congrats if you are!!!), you’ll definitely want to consider having graduation photos taken on campus to capture this formative phase in your life. Here are some of my favorite spots on campus for JMU graduation photos!
Pick The Right Location For Your JMU Graduation Photos With These 6 Great Spots
The Quad
The Quad is the quintessential backdrop for JMU graduation photos. Stretches of bright green grass, stately trees, and, of course, the red roofs of the surrounding campus buildings. The iconic Wilson Hall stands proud in the background for a shot that is undeniably JMU. The Quad has been a gathering place for the University since the very beginning, and it’s a beautiful place for pictures that capture the JMU experience.
Burruss Fountain
The fountain located just outside Burruss Hall was a donation to celebrate JMU’s 100th birthday. This beautiful fountain is an elegant feature in graduation photos, with two tiers of cascading water. Surrounded by buildings like Burruss Hall and the Carrier Library, it definitely gives off JMU vibes. Plus, there are plenty of gorgeous trees around for extra special pops of color.
Carrier Library
With its four front columns and beautiful red roof, Carrier Library is a perfect example of JMU’s historic architecture to capture with graduation photos. While it’s undergoing some major renovations (and is expected to reopen in 2026,) the front facade of the library will be lovingly maintained. Depending on timing, we may have to creatively dodge some construction, but we’ll make sure to feature the Carrier Library in a unique way.
Madison Hall Columns
Madison Hall is one of the newer buildings on campus, and the front of the building features a long walkway flanked with elegant, stately columns. These JMU columns are great for graduation photos that feel astutely collegiate. Especially when photographed from one end of the walkway. Whether you’re in your bright purple graduation robes or another outfit of your choosing, you’re sure to make a dramatic pop against the dramatic columns.
James Madison Statue
The life-size statue of James Madison located outside of Varner House at the end of the Quad has been an icon of JMU since its unveiling in 2002. While he’s been known to be dressed up in game day gear and other festive accoutrement throughout the year, he makes a great photo feature for grad photos, too. After all, is there anything more JMU than James Madison himself?
Bluestone Buildings
The Bluestone Buildings are a series of 23 historic structures made from bluestone. Among them are some of the oldest buildings on campus, whose exteriors look elegant and dignified. With so many to choose from, we can find plenty of ways to feature these gorgeous JMU features, all of which can help capture the spirit and history of this beautiful University.
JMU Graduation Photos
These are just a few of my recommendations for JMU graduation photos, but we can always find ways to incorporate your personal experience into your pictures. I’d love to help you capture this incredible time in your life before you move on to your next great adventure in life.
As a local photographer, I’m always trying to help my clients find places I know will be a good match. Half of my job is sitting down and getting to know people so I can make sure their brilliant personalities shine through every picture. If you’ve been looking for a JMU graduation photographer for your graduation pictures, then I’d love to connect! Contact me today to find out more.
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