5 Grad-Favorite Locations for Drake University Graduation Photos

Seniors

A woman kneels in a garden in a red top and jean shorts with her blonde hair blowing in the wind during drake university graduation photos

Look, I know I don’t need to tell you this, but graduating from college is a huge deal. This is your last stop on your way to a lifelong career. It’s your last hurrah as you raise your glass one more time with the friends you’ve made along the way! Why not celebrate by planning a photo session in the place so instrumental to all the memories you’ve made over the years? As an Iowa graduation photographer, I get the chance to plan lots of Drake University graduation photos. Here are the places on campus I always recommend!

Pick Your Favorite Spots For Your Dream Drake University Graduation Photos

Old Main

2507 University Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50311

Inside and out, Old Main is one of my favorite places for graduation photos at Drake University! The outside features rich architecture, including archways that you can use as a backdrop. Journey just a little outside the perimeters, and you’ll find the beloved bulldog statue. You are also going to find uncrowded walkways and lush trees where you can pose with the building just behind you.   

A grad leans on a box in a brick street in a red plaid button down during his drake university graduation photos

Drake Stadium

2719 Forest Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50311

I’m going to go out on a limb and say you’ve spent a good amount of time at Drake Stadium cheering on the Bulldogs. With your graduation photos, you can show off the legendary blue Drake University space! If you played sports throughout your tenure, we can work your field or your court in. If not, we can still find tons of great spots around the stadium so you can celebrate your school. 

Howard Hall

2515 University Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50311

While the lawn outside Howard Hall is a fabulous spot for your sessions, I am also a huge fan of the interior! Inside, you will find a grand staircase where natural light streams through stained glass windows. You can pose on the steps with the windows as a truly unparalleled backdrop.

Cowles Library

2725 University Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50311

Thanks to its recent redesign, Cowles Library is a modern, light-filled space that gives you tons of intimate spots for your photo sessions. Perhaps one of my favorite spots is the Reading Room where a glass domed ceiling and side floor-to-ceiling windows offer tons of natural light. Once you’re done here, you can walk around the shelves or find other cozy sitting areas. 

A happy graduate in a white dress stands by a lake at sunset

Drake University Sign Outside of Sheslow Auditorium

2507 University Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa 50311

Last but most certainly not least is the Drake Sign just outside Sheslow Auditorium. I love having my students pose in front so they can show off their alma mater. If you plan on doing graduation announcements, there’s a good chance this is going to be the picture you decide to use! 

I Hope You Love Some Of My Favorite Spots For Drake University Graduation Photos

With these spots for Drake University graduation photos, your photos are going to shine. Now, you just need the right person to take the pics for you. That’s where I come in! I am an Iowa graduation photographer, and I adore working with students so they can have pictures that celebrate this huge accomplishment. If you have been looking for your photographer, let’s have a conversation so you can decide if my style matches yours. Send me a message today if you’d like to learn more!