It’s that time of year again in Knoxville, Tennessee—when the Hill turns into a runway, Ayers becomes a battlefield of confetti, and suddenly, you can’t take three steps without catching a whiff of freshly popped champagne. Yes, UTK grads have officially emerged from their study caves, blinking into the sunlight in their brightest white dresses and tallest orange heels (how are they walking on that grass?!). The campus is alive with the sounds of “yes,girl love it,” and “okay pop the confetti on three,” as proud Volunteers strut through their final photo ops before tossing their caps and saying goodbye to Rocky Top.
I love a good grad session—I really do. But if you’ve ever photographed (or been in) one at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, you know these sessions are next-level intense. Let’s talk about what’s going on, how we can do better, and why it might be time to rethink the entire experience.
The UTK Grad Photo Frenzy
I don’t know if this is unique to UTK or true for all college campuses, but these senior sessions? They are just a little bit wild.
Maybe you’ve noticed the long line of white dresses and camera gear circling the Seal on campus. Or the confetti drifting through the air as you pass Ayres Hall. These are the signs, friends: it’s UTK senior photo season.
And here’s what photographers need to know:
- These sessions last way more than an hour
- They require strategic navigation around other photographers and clients
- You also have to consider parking, walking, and general safety
L.A.L. = Long Ass Lines
Let me introduce you to a UTK rite of passage: waiting in line for photos at the Seal or in front of Ayres Hall’s checkered floor. These spots are iconic. Popping champagne with the glow of the setting sun behind you? I get it. I really do.
But as photographers, we have to be mindful. Educate your clients. Be respectful of others waiting in line. And please, for the love of all things orange, don’t take 20 minutes at one location.
A good rule of thumb? Three poses or prompts, then move on. If you’ve been in the same spot for more than five minutes and there’s a line, it’s time to keep it moving.
While you’re waiting, talk with your client. Make a plan. Go over your sequence of poses and prompts so when it’s your turn, you can shoot with intention and flow.
Pro tips for seniors:
- Bring extra confetti poppers and champagne (biodegradable confetti)
- Watch the wind before you pop anything
- Bring a friend for moral support and to help carry things
Charge Your Time
Photographers: invoice your hours. I used to charge by the hour, but now I include one hour in the booking and clearly state that any extra time will be charged in 30-minute increments. That way, I don’t feel rushed, and my clients know exactly what to expect—especially on days when lines are long.
Parking, Walking & What to Bring
Parking on campus is… a nightmare. Between 3pm–9pm, finding a spot near Ayres is nearly impossible. Fingers crossed they don’t tow you (they usually don’t, but it’s always a gamble).
Here are some free or low-stress parking options within walking distance of key photo locations:
- Volunteer Hall Garage
- Fort Sanders Neighborhood street parking (watch signs!)
- Church Street United Methodist (if available during off-hours)
- Downtown garages (free nights and weekends)
Walking: You will walk. And climb. And sweat. Ayres Hall is on a hill. Seniors: pack light and bring a friend. Photographers: only carry what you need—camera, phone, keys, wallet. A crossbody bag will be your best friend.
Safety First
It’s easy to forget this is an open college campus in the heart of a busy city. I’ve never had issues, but I stay aware. When you’re carrying $8,000+ in gear, it’s worth taking safety seriously. Stay alert, especially if you’re shooting at dusk or carrying extra equipment.
Time for a Hot Take
Okay, hot take time:
UTK senior sessions have become a little… cliche.
Don’t get me wrong—there’s something sweet about tradition. But why not create something that feels more authentic to who you are? There are stunning, unique locations all over Knoxville that could serve as meaningful backdrops for your senior session.
Bring the confetti. Bring the champagne. But maybe… skip the line at Ayres.
Let’s shoot in a studio.
Let’s walk through spring blooms.
Let’s head up to the mountains (you know I love the Smokies).
Other unique photo location ideas in Knoxville:
- The Knoxville Botanical Garden
- The Lightfoot Studio
- Historic Old City alleyways
- Lakeshore Park in early golden hour
- Marble Hall and gardens at the UT Gardens
Why try to recreate what’s already been done when we could make something brand new—something uniquely you?
Ready to skip the lines and do something that actually feels like you?
Let’s dream up a session that tells your story—not just the one everyone else is telling. Get in touch here or check out my Pinterest board of unique senior session ideas for more inspiration!
Kosky 
Leave a comment