This spring marks 20 years since I graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill. 😳 Two whole decades since I walked across the stage, diploma in hand, heart bursting with pride and excitement for what was next. To be honest, it kind of blows my mind. Carolina has always held such a special place in my heart. And even though I’ve only been back to the UNC campus a handful of times since since graduating, coming back to photograph Kayla’s graduation photos this spring brought back a flood of memories. Plus, it reminded me just how special this campus really is!
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Capturing Kayla’s Carolina Story
Kayla is graduating from UNC just like I did — and as I photographed her, I couldn’t help but reflect on how those four short years really shape you. Graduation photos at UNC are more than just a milestone… they tell the story of where you’ve been and where you’re headed. And If you’re looking for ideas on where to take grad photos at UNC, here are a few of my favorite spots — and why I love them so much for capturing your journey as Tar Heel.
🌟 The Old Well
It’s iconic — and essential. Almost every UNC grad includes this in their gallery, and for good reason. The Old Well is the symbol of the university. Kayla’s photos here remind me of my own from 20 years ago, and the symmetry of the columns makes every shot feel timeless. Because everyone wants this shot, we’ll probably have to wait in a line if we’re shooting in the evenings leading up to graduation. But it’s totally worth it.
📚 Wilson Library
Looking for a classic graduation backdrop for your UNC grad photos? Wilson Library has you covered. I love shooting on the steps and portico, because they all add a refined and collegiate look to your images. Kayla looked amazing next to the huge Corinthian columns!
📍 Polk Place (AKA “The Quad”) with South Building
Wide open lawns, stately oaks, and that classic view of South Building in the background — Polk Place is such a versatile spot for graduation photos. It has that quintessential campus feel. And Kayla’s shots here felt relaxed, natural, and full of that “I’m really graduating” kind of energy.
🌿 Coker Arboretum
For a softer, more romantic vibe, the Arboretum is a dream. It’s tucked away in the heart of campus, filled with wildflowers, greenery, and peaceful pathways. Plus, Kayla’s white dress popped perfectly against the lush green. The Arboretum is a great option for anyone who wants to add natural beauty to their grad photos at UNC.
🕰️ The Bell Tower
The Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower is one of the most recognized landmarks on campus. Additionally, it’s a really powerful backdrop for UNC graduation photos. The vibe here is classic and celebratory. We photographed Kayla here just before golden hour, and the warm light made everything glow. It’s a great spot to kick off or wrap up your session with a little extra Tar Heel pride!
🐏 Ramses & Ramses Jr.
Want to show off your Tar Heel pride? A few photos with Rameses or Rameses Jr. always bring a playful, fun energy to your grad gallery. Kayla posed with both mascots, and the shots were pure joy. We got lucky that they were out roaming around the Bell Tower the evening of Kayla’s shoot!
🏟️ Kenan Memorial Stadium
This spot always gives me chills. Standing in the stadium, overlooking the rows of seats, it’s impossible not to feel proud. If you’ve spent time here cheering on the Tar Heels, this is a great location to reflect that in your graduation portraits. Not to mention, it’s where you’ll officially become a gradute of UNC at your graduation ceremony!
🌇 Franklin Street
Franklin isn’t just a street — it’s a whole vibe. For me, it’s where I celebrated a National Championship in basketball! And for Kayla, it’s where so many of her college memories live. Including a few casual, candid moments here really rounds out your UNC graduation photo story.
💙 Why It Still Means So Much
UNC isn’t just a campus — it’s a part of who I am. Being back to photograph grads like Kayla reminds me just how much these moments matter. Whether you’re just beginning to think about graduation or already counting down the days, your time at Carolina deserves to be remembered in a way that feels real and personal.
To see more photos from Kayla’s session, just keep scrolling!
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