So you’re *finally* back on campus, or on campus as a student for the first time, and you want to recognize the occasion with some fun pictures with your friends.
Alternatively, you want to do a cool, themed photoshoot. You know, the ones everyone did this spring while stuck in quarantine?
Either way, you’ll probably post the photos on Instagram later, so you need them to be high-quality. Which means you need a great location. But where in Hillsdale do you go? Pictures in front of Central Hall are nice, but way over-used and almost cliché. What are some other locations?
Well, there are actually a lot of great places for photo-opts around campus and in the town of Hillsdale. The following list doesn’t cover them all, but should help you get started.
1.In front of the chapel.
Sure, in only a year of existence, this spot has already been used a lot. But that’s because it’s such a beautiful location and great for taking pictures — whether you’re by the fountain, in the portico, or somewhere in between. This will probably become the new best place to take major-declaration photos.
2. The streets of downtown Hillsdale in the snow.
Picture this: small town shops, snow covered streets, maybe even Christmas decorations if it’s the season… You’re basically now on the set of It’s A Wonderful Life. Or a Hallmark movie.
3. The greenhouse in Strosacker Hall.
The vegetation and lighting here make for some eye-catching, colorful photos. If you want more hippie vibes especially, this is a godo spot that can be used year-round. It’s also nice and private.
4. The flower mural in Downtown Hillsdale (next to Coney’s and Swirls)
Yes, even in Hillsdale, you can capture those bright mural shots like you do in big cities. While there are multiple murals around Hillsdale, this one is particularly good for photos because you can even get ice cream from Coney’s and Swirls next door to complete the fun, colorful look.
5. The campus tennis courts.
For those of you wanting to do a fun photoshoot that has a retro, album artwork-type vibe, the tennis courts are your place. Especially during the day when you can play with shadows. Just make sure nobody needs to use them for practice.
6. Meckley’s Flavor Fruit Farm.
This one is another good spot for seasonal photos — whether that’s late spring when everything starts blooming again, or in the fall when you want to take rustic photos in an apple orchard.
7. The East Lawn during the fall.
Speaking of fall, the ultimate spot for colorful leaf photos is under the many trees on the East Lawn. Take a break after dinner one day to capture some memories with friends under the colorful trees that are an iconic part of campus.
8. At home football games.
This unfortunately won’t be applicable until at least the spring, but next time you go to a football game, be sure to take some photos with friends in the bleachers, or head onto the field after the game for some pitctures. Nothing beats Charger pride!
9. Baw Beese at golden hour.
Between the water, foliage, and sunset lighting, Baw Beese makes for a great photo on any occasion. Plus, it’s just an overall great place to spend some time with friends, so take advantage of it while it’s still warm!
10. Penny’s coffee shop.
For the fall and winter months especially, Penny’s makes for some classy, cozy photos. The lighting is good and there are several different seating areas that make for cute coffee and study date photos. Plus, if you’re holding a coffee in your hand, you don’t have that eternally awkward problem of wondering what to do with your arms in pictures.
So there you have it, ten of the best places to take photos on campus. Now go out and take some great photos with your friends — and tag us @hdalecollegian when you do!