As the leaves began to turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold, I found the perfect opportunity to spend a day taking photos of my friend Madi around campus at the University of Northern Iowa (UNI) what I like to call “Autumn Adventures” .
Meet Madi!
Madi is currently a junior at UNI currently pursuing Elementary Education. She transferred from Hawkeye Community College after she graduated with an AA in Early Childhood Education. Madi’s excitement for her studies was evident as she shared stories about her classes and the experiences she’s had so far.
A Beautiful Campus Backdrop
The University of Northern Iowa is known for its picturesque campus, especially during the fall. The tree-lined walkways and stunning brick buildings create a charming backdrop that’s perfect for photography. The first part of our Autumn Adventures began at Begeman Hall , where captured Madi sitting on the beautiful stairs leading up to the building. We then went around the campus and took photos to capture the colorful foliage that was in full swing. We also had to opportunity to capture Madi with the campanile.
Embracing the Fall Vibes
As we strolled through the campus, I focused on capturing the essence of autumn. Madi wore a cozy long sleeves, a puffer jacket, and boots, perfectly blending into the seasonal vibe. We took advantage of the gorgeous fall colors, posing in front of trees and capturing the fall leaves behind Madi.
The Magic of the Golden Hour
As we are getting closer to winter the sun was setting faster than I thought it was going to be. We had our photoshoot at 6:00 P.M. and the sunset for the day was 6:15. We rushed around before it got to dark to capture the photos. We got to capture golden cast images. The warm light bathed everything in a soft glow, creating a magical atmosphere. Madi and I took turns experimenting with different angles and poses, all while enjoying the beautiful backdrop. I encouraged her to express herself—whether it was a thoughtful pose or a burst of laughter. Each click of the shutter captured a slice of her vibrant spirit.
A Day Well Spent
By the end of our photo adventure, we had amassed a wonderful collection of images that perfectly encapsulated Madi’s personality and the beauty of UNI in the fall. From playful shots amidst the leaves to more contemplative moments in front of her favorite study spots, the photos reflected not only her journey as a student but also the joy of friendship.
Capture Everyday Moments: Photos for Fun
As we wrapped up our day, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the memories we created. I encourage anyone with a passion for photography to take the time to document their friends and the places that are meaningful to them. Whether it’s the beauty of a fall day at a university or a cozy moment at home, these photographs will become cherished memories for years to come.
