When people think of Greek life, they often picture massive Southern campuses with stadium-sized crowds and choreographed dances. At Johns Hopkins, it looks a little different. The Greek life community here is smaller, more intimate—and just as full of joy.
As someone who’s not in a sorority but has always admired the community from the sidelines, I had the chance to step into the whirlwind of Bid Day this year—camera in hand, surrounded by sequins, confetti, and so much sisterhood.
Seeing It From the Outside (and Through My Lens)
Many of my closest friends and volleyball teammates are in sororities, and I’ve watched them pour love into their chapters and each other for years. So when Bid Day rolled around and I was invited to photograph the reveal and after-party at Phi Mu, I said yes in a heartbeat.
I wasn’t just there to take posed photos—I was there to capture what it felt like:
- The nervous buzz before the reveal
- The squeals and screams as new members ran home
- The glitter-covered hugs and group dances
- The heartfelt signs and sisterhood tradition
- The way people looked at each other, not just at the camera
What Makes Greek Life at Hopkins Unique
At Hopkins, Greek life isn’t about exclusivity—it’s about inclusion. Everyone who wants to join a sorority gets placed. That spirit of “there’s room for you here” was so evident during the reveal and after-party. You could feel the community. The support. The excitement for new beginnings. It wasn’t about being the loudest chapter or having the fanciest bid day—it was about being together.
There was a softness to it all. A sense of “you’re home now.”
Why I Love Photographing Sorority Moments
There’s something electric about documenting sisterhood in real time. The group shots are great, of course—but the magic is in the moments between:
- The way a big wipes away her tears before hugging her new little
- The new member clinging to her flower bouquet like it’s made of gold
- The unposed, euphoric joy that fills the room
As a documentary-style photographer, these are the stories I live to tell. Real. Candid. Full of meaning.
For the Sorority Girls Planning Ahead
If you’re part of Greek life at Hopkins—whether you’re planning a Bid Day, Big/Little reveal, or just want a photo session with your sisters—let’s make it happen.
You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect setup to make your memories last. You just need someone who sees what matters. Someone who’ll catch the tear-streaked smiles, the mid-dance jumps, and all the little moments that add up to something unforgettable.
Interested in a sorority session for your next reveal or graduation? I’d love to hear from you—inquire here or reach out on Instagram @brooklynkatephoto.
