A Complete Grad Photo Guide For SMU Grads

Southern Methodist University sits on one of the most beautiful campuses in all of Texas. The red brick Georgian architecture, manicured lawns, and iconic Dallas Hall dome create a built-in backdrop that most universities can only dream about. If you're graduating from SMU, your campus is your best photo studio.


Here are the locations I always recommend - and some hidden gems - for capturing your SMU graduation portraits.

Graduate in white dress and red stole poses joyfully in front of a domed university building.

#1 Dallas Hall (The Quintessential SMU Shot)


There's a reason every SMU brochure features Dallas Hall. The domed rotunda, red brick facade, and perfectly symmetrical architecture make it one of the most photogenic buildings in Dallas. Position yourself at the base of the steps looking up, or shoot from the reflecting pool across the lawn for a wider establishing shot.

Three graduates in white dresses and red stoles pose on university building steps.

#2 Dallas Hall Stairs


Perfect for some candid moments (and great for friend groups), after you've taken some portraits in front of Dallas Hall - making sure to snag a few pics walking down the stairs and against the pillars.

Graduate in red stole playfully poses with books in library stacks.

#3 Fondren Library


Whether you actually ever went to the library during your undergrad or if on your photoshoot this will be your first time stepping foot, we won't judge (or tell). Perfect for really showing Mom and Dad that you've been studious over the years.

Row of blue graduation caps shown in close-up detail.

#4 Indoor Library Stairs


If you're looking for a photo to really caption "#academicweapon" then this is it. Get a photo of you (and your friends if applicable) opening a textbook to show our generation still does read LOL.

A student sits on a stone sign for Edman College at Southern Methodist University on a sunny day.

#5 Deadman College Sign


Yet another signature spot most SMU graduates make sure to hit on their photoshoot. Pro Tip: Make sure to not cover Dallas Hall behind you by angling yourself a bit off-centered.

A student in an SMU sweatshirt studies with a textbook in a university building.

#6 Law Building Classrooms (Or Any Really)


Enter back into the doors of probably the most stressful days of your life (kidding). Bring a fit and maybe a book or two to pose as a true academic weapon in their own natural environment.

Panoramic view of a stately colonial-style building with manicured grounds on a sunny day.

#7 COX School of Business


Finally, after years of construction, the COX School of Business has a new stunning quad and sign for taking photos at. Probably only relevant to Business Students (or hey, it is a really cute photo shot), this spot is a quick one to grab a few pics.

Red brick archway frames an outdoor portrait session on a college campus.

#8 Elizabeth Perkins Pronthro Hall


I don't personally know what's inside this building, and no worries if you don't either. The pillars outside of Perkins Hall really are the star here. Great for showcasing some of the campus architecture - and perfect during golden hour.

Outdoor graduation photos taken at a university campus with brick pathways and trees.

#9 SMU University Sign


Probably the most beautiful university sign in all of Dallas Forth-Worth Metroplex, the SMU University Sign is a must-do for your photoshoot. Pro Tip: Time your photoshoot during golden hour to really make the background pop.

Campus architectural photos featuring brick buildings and equestrian statues.

#10 Mustangs Statue


Stop by the iconic Mustangs Statue at the heart of campus for a cute pic. You can try and climb one of the Mustangs, but they're probably both too hot to touch and too tall to climb.

Portrait session in a lush green park setting on a sunny day.

#11 Bishop Blvd


Step foot onto the long rectangular park that stretches all the way down the center of SMU Campus. A few photos in-between the trees really creates a "brandless" photo moment for graduates who want portraits that don't scream their university.

Playful photos by a fountain with water splashing in the background.

#12 Dallas Hall Fountain


You might as well full send for your grad portraits, and nothing screams celebration like stepping foot into the SMU Fountain and popping a bottle of champaign. Yes, your clothes may get wet - but these photos will last longer than the walk back to the car.

How to Book Your SMU Graduation Photos


I've captured graduation portraits for SMU students for the past 5 years. Truly one of the most beautiful campuses, Southern Methodist University truly is perfect for capturing your college graduation photos - and I'd love to capture yours.


Packages start at $299 for a 1-hour session with 100–200 fully edited portraits, delivered in 4–7 business days. Sessions can be split with up to 5 friends, making it one of the most affordable ways to get professional graduation photos in Denton.


Ready to book? Visit my SMU Grad Photography page to check availability and reserve your spot. Questions? Email me at [email protected].