Hey there, photographers! If you’re diving into the bustling world of college and sorority photography, understanding campus jargon is as crucial as nailing the perfect exposure. Each college term you learn not only enriches your campus rapport but also deepens your engagement with student activities. Learn just one term a day, and in just a month, you’ll be speaking college-ese like a seasoned pro! Here’s your expanded cheat sheet to the top 31 collegiate terms every photographer should know before setting foot on their local college campus.

1. Rush

Refers to the recruitment period for Greek life organizations. Packed with photo opportunities as potential new members attend various events.

2. Pledge

A potential new member of a fraternity or sorority during the recruitment process. Capturing their journey is a vital part of your shoot during rush season.

3. Greek

Related to anything sorority or fraternity life. Knowing this term helps you understand the context of many college events.

4. Formal

A significant dance or banquet for a sorority or fraternity, perfect for capturing high-dress occasions.

5. Sorority Mom

An advisor or alumna mentor of a sorority house. A key relationship for accessing events and making introductions.

6. Bid Day

The day potential new members receive their formal invitations to join a Greek organization. It’s emotional and memorable.

7. Philanthropy Day

Focuses on community service activities by Greek life organizations. Great for showing the charitable side of fraternities and sororities.

8. Parents Weekend

Special weekends planned for parents to visit and reconnect with their college students, offering a mix of emotional moments and festive events.

9. Tailgate

Pre-game social gatherings around the open tailgates of vehicles, showcasing the spirited side of college life.

10. House

Refers to the physical sorority or fraternity residence, a central location for many photographic events.

11. Chapter Meeting

A formal gathering in a Greek house where members meet. Photographing here often requires trust and respect.

12. Initiation

A ceremony where pledges formally become members, usually private, and requires discretion if photographed.

13. Dead Days

The quiet period just before finals when no official events or classes are held, and students are studying intensely…or at least supposed to be 🤪.

14. Dean’s List

A recognition of students who achieve high grades. Events honoring these students can be significant.

15. Exec

Refers to the executive teams within each sorority, responsible for the management and strategic planning of their respective groups.

16. Panhellenic

Refers to the council that governs the female Greek life organizations. Understanding their role can help you navigate the complexities of sorority events.

17. Stole

A decorative scarf worn over the graduation gown that signifies specific achievements or memberships, such as Greek life, honors societies, or cultural affiliations.

18. Commencement

The formal ceremony for the conferral of degrees, one of the most photographed events on campus.

19. Sylly Week

The first week of the semester, often less academically intense, where students attend back-to-school parties and social events. It’s a time filled with vibrant, casual photo ops.

20. Office Hours

Designated times when professors are available to students, potentially useful for scheduling shoots involving faculty.

21. Frat

A common shorthand for fraternity, used frequently in casual conversation on campus.

22. Major

The primary field of study chosen by a student, often a focal point in graduation photography.

23. Minor

A secondary field of study, also a frequent term during academic celebrations or profile shoots.

24. Elective

Courses chosen by students outside their major requirements, can be context for event themes or discussions.

25. Undergrad

An undergraduate student, your primary client base for college photography.

26. Alum

Short for alumni, referring to graduates or former students, key targets for reunion and legacy event photography.

27. Drop/Add

The period when students can drop or add courses, a hectic time on campus with many interactions.

28. Study Abroad

Programs where students study outside their home country, often a highlight in personal and graduation shoots.

29. Dorm

Short for dormitory, the main housing option for many students, and a common setting for casual and lifestyle shoots.

30. RA (Resident Assistant)

A student leader who supervises and assists residents in a dormitory. RAs are key figures in dorm life, often organizing and overseeing student activities.

31. Quad / Commons

A common central area on campus where students gather, a key spot for dynamic campus life photography.

Ready to Speak College-Ese?

With this glossary in hand, you’re set to navigate the campus with confidence, understanding the nuances of college life, and connecting more deeply with your student clients. Learn a term a day, and in just one month, you’ll not only enhance your photography but also enrich your interactions on campus. Ready to turn that campus into your canvas? Let’s go capture some collegiate memories! 🎓📸