On May 1, 2026, hundreds of students at St Andrews University participated in the May Dip, a cherished tradition aimed at securing good luck for exams. However, an unsettling trend has emerged: many students feel uncomfortable with photographers targeting them during this event.
The May Dip involves students gathering at East Sands at dawn to plunge into the North Sea, a ritual steeped in history and camaraderie. Yet, this year, reports surfaced of photographers focusing particularly on female participants in swimwear. Anna, a student who took part in the event, expressed her dismay: “It felt like it was just girls in bikinis getting pictures taken.”
Concerns about body image are not unfounded. Over 60% of adults in the UK report negative feelings about their bodies. This statistic looms large over events like the May Dip, where young adults are already vulnerable to societal pressures regarding appearance. Olivia, another student participant, noted that the photographers seemed selective in their targets: “They know what they’re doing; they know exactly who they’re picking out.”
The university has warned students about the presence of press photographers at the event, yet many still find themselves unprepared for unsolicited attention. Anna added, “To have comments on your body just feels really repulsive.” This sentiment highlights a growing concern about photography ethics and consent during student rituals.
The May Dip is also said to be the only remedy for the legendary curse of Patrick Hamilton—a historical narrative that adds layers to this beloved tradition. However, as students navigate both the excitement of participating in this ritual and the discomfort of being objectified, it raises questions about how traditions evolve in modern contexts.
As discussions around consent and body image gain traction, observers are left wondering how such events will adapt. Will there be changes in guidelines regarding photography at future May Dips? Or will these traditions continue to grapple with contemporary issues?