Photography
Photos Sessions with Abe
The Grad Team will provide professional photo sessions with Abe on the dates listed below. Caps and gowns are provided for all photo sessions
- Tuesday, November 10 | 9 a.m–3 p.m.
- Wednesday, November 11 | 9 a.m–3 p.m.
- (RAIN DATE) Thursday, November 12 | 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
Schedule is subject to change. Inclement weather will require the ladder to be stored.
Climbing the Abe statue without the specialized campus safety ladder is prohibited. Individuals who climb the statue without the safety ladder risk serious harm to themselves and to the artwork. The statue sits at a significant height above a hard ground surface. The statue may be slippery, and there are no specially designed railings or grip points. Risks include slips and/or falls, scrapes, bruises, broken bones, and potentially serious or fatal head, neck, back or spinal injuries. Individuals choosing to climb without the campus safety ladder acknowledge these dangers and proceed at their own risk.
2026 Numbers on Bascom Hill
The 2026 Numbers will be on the lower third of Bascom Hill from Monday, November 9 to Friday, November 13. No sign up or registration is required.
Portrait Sessions
Portrait sessions are available during the following dates and times. All sessions will take place at Memorial Union.
- Monday, December 1 | 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
- Tuesday, December 2 | 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
- Sunday, December 7 | 9 a.m.–7 p.m.
Photos with Abe
Graduates may take photos with the Abe statue during the following staffed times when a safety ladder is provided. No appointments are necessary.
- Friday, December 11 | 1–3 p.m.
- Saturday, December 12 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Sunday, December 13 | 1–3 p.m.
- Monday, December 14 | 1-3 p.m.
Schedule is subject to change. Inclement weather will require the ladder to be stored.
Climbing the Abe statue without the specialized campus safety ladder is prohibited. Individuals who climb the statue without the safety ladder risk serious harm to themselves and to the artwork. The statue sits at a significant height above a hard ground surface. The statue may be slippery, and there are no specially designed railings or grip points. Risks include slips and/or falls, scrapes, bruises, broken bones, and potentially serious or fatal head, neck, back or spinal injuries. Individuals choosing to climb without the campus safety ladder acknowledge these dangers and proceed at their own risk.
Ceremony photos
All candidates will have their photo taken as they cross the stage at the Kohl Center to receive their diploma cover and a solo portrait after they exit the stage. Photo stations at Gates A and B will be available before and after the ceremony for graduate portraits with friends and family.
Make sure to complete the photo registration form prior to the ceremony so day-of portraits can be emailed to you. Proofs will be sent to graduates and their families within 48 hours of the ceremony. Your commencement is a once-in-a-lifetime moment so don’t miss out!
Questions about your photos?
UW–Madison is excited to work with The Grad Team for commencement photography. If you have any questions, please email The Grad Team or call (800)-482-0321. You can also visit The Grad Team Photography UW–Madison Portal for more information.