Photo Locations

Lights! Camera! Graduate!

After years of hard work, late nights at the library and endless studying, it is finally time to cross the Commencement stage.

What better way to commemorate this moment than with an awesome photo shoot? Here’s are our favorite spots on campus to snap the quintessential graduation photo and make a memory.


UTSA graduate and his family taking a photo in front of the sombrilla fountain

The Sombrilla Fountain

A treasured Roadrunner meeting spot, the Sombrilla Fountain tops our list of grad photo locations. Legend has it that students who touch the fountain during finals week will get an extra boost of good luck. And it’s tempting, but don’t jump in! The legend also says that touching the Sombrilla at any other time throughout the semester could jeopardize your chances of earning that A. So, grab the cap and gown and pose in front of UTSA’s iconic fountain. Years into your career, you’ll be glad you did.


UTSA graduate in full regalia in front of the roadrunner statue on campus

The Roadrunner Statue

The iconic Roadrunner Statue was created by artist R.G. Box. The iron statue, which sports 1,000 feathers and stands at six feet tall and 11 feet long, landed at UTSA in 2013. Today, it rests inside Central Plaza near the Sombrilla and watches over students are they head to class every day. It’s also a celebratory staple during UTSA traditions like Fiesta, Best Fest and Homecoming. Take a photo next to Rowdy (no climbing up, please) and show off your best “Birds Up” pose.


UTSA graduate in full regalia taking a photo in front of the UTSA monument

The UTSA Monuments

The UTSA Monuments are a popular photo spot for graduating students. Located at the UTSA Oval, the Monuments greets students and others as they enter the Main Campus from Loop 1604. Plan ahead if you want a photo shoot here without being rushed. These spots become quite crowded as Commencement gets closer and when they’re all lit up to celebrate our graduates.


Giant UTSA letters statue on campus

The UTSA Letters

Are you ready to make a statement? Say it loud and proud with the iconic UTSA Letters. Located next to the Welcome Center and Bauerle Garage on the UTSA Main Campus, the UTSA Letters offer an overstated backdrop for commencement photos. A popular selfie spot for visiting prospective students, this site is a must-visit for those graduating students who want to commemorate their journey in a big way.


UTSA graduate sitting on one of the UTSA benches on campus

The UTSA Benches

You must be tired from all of that studying, so take a seat on one of the signature orange and blue benches. They’re located at the Main and Downtown Campuses. Oftentimes, families with multiple generations of Roadrunners will take photos on the benches. There’s something special about a pic featuring two, three or four generations of UTSA graduates.


Downtown campus San Pedro building in the evening

The San Antonio Skyline at the Downtown Campus

The Alamo City is an important part of our students’ stories. Show off your San Antonio pride with a picturesque photo of the skyline. You can find a gorgeous view of the city from Bill Miller Plaza at the Downtown Campus.


Close up of the UTSA plaque in the memorial garden

Roadrunner Memorial Garden

The Roadrunner Memorial Garden was developed by the UTSA student body as a place to reflect and cherish Roadrunners who have passed. The garden was dedicated in February 2018, and UTSA students have begun a tradition of kneeling at the Memorial Garden to honor those who have passed. Visit this tranquil garden and celebrate those who inspired your UTSA journey.


Graduation photos are the highlight reel of your college career. Have fun and remember to smile. It’s your time to shine. And share your photos with the Roadrunner community on social media using hashtag #UTSAGrad24.