Portrait appointments for 2023-2024: NOW thru end of fall 2023 semester.
Each year, El Rodeo features a Graduates section with portraits of those students who are receiving degrees (as undergraduates or graduates), and who wish to have their picture made for that purpose.
Yearbook portraits are taken on campus free of charge by our official yearbook portrait photographer, Lauren Studios, during the fall semester. The studio also offers extended sessions for a nominal fee, with additional poses that are great for family, friends, or even professional purposes.
Schedule your appointment
To schedule a sitting time, please visit the Lauren Studios website, and create a new account, using either your personal Client ID number (sent to you by mail), or the USC school password: TROY. If you haven’t received a Client ID number, you can still have your portrait taken — just create an account just by using the school password, TROY.
The photo session and yearbook portrait are free. Lauren Studios also offers graduates an opportunity to purchase other high-quality photo packages at the same session.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my cap and gown?
No, Lauren Studios will have a selection of gowns and caps available to match the degree you are receiving and degree program that you are graduating from.
You will rent your actual graduation attire in the spring at the USC Bookstore.
What is my hood color?
Each year, USC graduates are photographed for the yearbook, wearing appropriate gowns, caps, and hoods, representing their degree and, in the case of graduate work, their field of study.
Here, you can download a PDF listing of the appropriate hood colors for masters and doctoral degrees. Click the sorting you would prefer:
What should I do if I am studying abroad this fall?
If you are studying abroad during the fall semester, please contact our office about arrangements.
What if I am graduating early (or late)?
If you are earning your degree in December or next summer, you are welcome to have your portrait made for the coming edition of El Rodeo. Just be sure to schedule a photo session this fall, and you will be included.
There are no sessions in the summer or spring, so if you miss the fall opportunity, you will need to wait for the next edition of El Rodeo. If you have a question about when you should have your photo taken, you are welcome to contact us, and we can help you navigate.
Will I be listed in the yearbook if I do not have my portrait taken?
Not in the Graduates section. We only print photos, along with the names and degrees that match them. If you did not have your photo taken, your name and degrees will not appear in the Graduates section. You may, however, appear as a part of our event coverage, as a member of a club or organization, or in other sections of the book.
If you have any other questions, we are always happy to answer them. You can contact us here.