Then and Now Graduation Photo Idea: A Sentimental Twist You Can Recreate This Year
Graduation season in Southern California is filled with emotion, celebration, and the opportunity to reflect on just how far you've come. One creative and meaningful way to commemorate your academic journey is through the “Then and Now” graduation photo idea—where you recreate a cherished photo from an earlier graduation, like kindergarten, fifth grade, or middle school, side-by-side with your current high school or college cap and gown portraits. Whether you recreate this yourself or work with a photographer to bring it to life, it’s an unforgettable way to document your growth.
In this blog, we explore how to plan your own Then and Now graduation shoot, how to choose the best Southern California photo locations—from UCLA to UC Riverside to SDSU—and how to make the most of this trend while still incorporating family, pets, and special props. We also introduce our flexible Milestone Graduation Package, which gives you the space to personalize your session and bring your ideas to life—whether that’s a full cap and gown session with family or recreating a beloved childhood moment.
From the rolling hills of Temecula Wine Country to the iconic architecture of USC and UC Irvine, we cover the top photo spots, expert tips, and how this idea can make your graduation experience more emotional, personal, and truly one-of-a-kind.
Photo Credit: Immanuel Offei
The Concept: Then and Now Graduation Photos
There’s something incredibly powerful about seeing a side-by-side photo of who you were and who you’ve become. The Then and Now concept encourages you to bring your earliest graduation photo and recreate it today. The magic lies in the contrast: your transformation, your resilience, your growth.
Whether it’s a kindergartener in an oversized gown or a middle school snapshot on your childhood porch, this idea helps reconnect you with where you started—and gives you space to celebrate how far you’ve come.
While we don’t formally advertise this as a service, we’re happy to help guide you through recreating your own Then and Now moment—or to include it as a creative twist in your personalized session.
Why It Works
Visual storytelling – Captures a graduation journey in one powerful image.
Emotional connection – Especially meaningful for families and parents.
Social media friendly – Ideal for reels, announcements, and memory walls.
Legacy-building – Creates keepsakes that last well beyond the graduation party.
Personal Reflection
As a photographer, I often reflect on my own journey through images. I love how I can take accountability by looking through my pictures on social media. I can literally see how far I’ve progressed this month and reflect on how much I’ve grown in the year. Taking pictures almost daily has allowed me to track my progress not only in my photography but in my health, writing, networking, business management, and advertising. It's the only time instant gratification actually feels positive—because I'm watching my own story unfold, one image at a time.
That’s the heart of this idea. Your graduation is a chapter in that visual autobiography.
How to Recreate a Then and Now Graduation Photo
Find Your Original Graduation Photo – Whether it’s printed or digital, choose a photo from an early milestone.
Match the Pose and Details – Think about expression, outfit elements, or setting.
Select the Perfect Location – Revisit the school or front yard where it began—or recreate the vibe on your college campus.
Add Meaningful Props or People – Use your diploma, pets, childhood toys, or invite family members to join.
If you'd like support, we’re happy to incorporate this concept into your professional shoot.
Top Graduation Photo Locations in Southern California
Los Angeles County
UCLA (View) – Royce Hall and Powell Library create an iconic academic backdrop.
USC (View) – Alumni Park and Bovard Auditorium offer classic grad vibes.
Cal State LA (View) – Hilltop views, fountains, and bold architecture.
Orange County
UC Irvine (View) – Modern lines at the Student Center and lush landscapes in Aldrich Park.
Cal State Fullerton (View) – Titan Walk is perfect for both solo and family photos.
Chapman University (View) – Beautiful historic red brick buildings and shaded staircases.
Inland Empire
UC Riverside (View) – Bell Tower and Botanic Gardens offer serene backdrops.
Cal State San Bernardino (View) – The university sign and green spaces are ideal for large group shots.
Mt. San Jacinto College (MSJC) (View) – Great for simplicity and clean design elements.
Temecula Area
Old Town Temecula (View) – Rustic storefronts and boardwalk charm.
Temecula Wine Country (View) – Golden hour vineyard light for timeless images.
Lake Skinner – Perfect for sentimental family-based recreations.
San Diego County
UC San Diego (UCSD) (View) – Geisel Library and coastal cliffs offer both classic and bold visual options.
San Diego State University (SDSU) (View) – Hepner Hall is a local favorite for its timeless arches.
Want Help Capturing It? Our Milestone Graduation Package is designed to be flexible enough to bring your ideas to life. While we don’t specifically market the Then and Now series, we’re always happy to bring creative visions into a session.
Milestone Graduation Package Includes:
1-hour personalized session
30 edited high-resolution images
One meaningful location in Riverside or San Bernardino County (no travel fee)
Sessions available in San Diego, Orange, or Los Angeles County (additional travel fee applies)
Two outfit changes (cap and gown + one personal look)
Can include family, friends, pets, props, or special locations
Let us know if you’d like to incorporate a Then and Now element—we’d be happy to make it happen.
Final Thoughts
Your graduation story deserves to be told in a way that reflects both where you started and who you’ve become. The Then and Now idea is a heartfelt concept you can do yourself—or let us help bring it to life with professional quality and care.
Whether you recreate a childhood photo with your family or want something more polished to frame, we’re here to help make your graduation unforgettable.
Book your Milestone Graduation Package today, and let’s celebrate how far you’ve come—one image at a time.
Why DIY Family Graduation Photos Are Going Viral in 2025 — And How to Make Yours Unforgettable
In 2025, more families are ditching traditional studios and embracing meaningful, DIY graduation photography—often taken by a parent, sibling, or friend. The trend exploded after a Mississippi dad went viral for capturing his daughter’s graduation photos with nothing more than a borrowed camera and a whole lot of love. As a photographer raised by a photo-loving father myself, I know firsthand how powerful these moments are. I grew up with my dad documenting every chapter of my life—from birthdays to graduations—and those images have only grown more meaningful with time. That experience shaped me, and now I help other families preserve those same once-in-a-lifetime memories.
In this blog, we explore why DIY family grad photos are resonating so deeply, how to capture them beautifully, and when it’s time to bring in a professional. We’ve also included a list of the best photo-worthy locations near major Southern California universities—from UCLA and USC to UC Riverside and Cal State San Bernardino. Whether your family is driving in from Los Angeles or Orange County or flying in from New York, Houston, or Mexico City, we’ll help you capture those unforgettable milestones. And when you’re ready to upgrade your DIY with professional editing, lighting, and a short video highlight reel, our Milestone Graduation Package is the perfect next step.
Photo Credit: Albert Vincent Wu
The Viral Graduation Story That Touched the World
In 2024, Taylor Clark, a college graduate from Mississippi, needed someone to take her graduation photos. Instead of hiring a professional, she turned to the one person who’s always been in her corner: her dad. With no photography experience and a borrowed camera, Tim Clark took his daughter’s portraits. Taylor shared the results on social media, saying:
“POV: your dad is your biggest fan and takes your grad pics with no experience 🥺📸”
The post went viral. What moved people wasn’t just the photos—it was the visible pride, love, and emotion in every frame. It showed that you don’t need expensive gear to capture a meaningful moment. You just need someone who loves you behind the lens.
My Story: From My Dad’s Camera to Yours
That story hit home for me. My dad was a photographer too. I grew up in a house where he always had a camera in hand—documenting everything from birthdays to graduations. Back then, I didn’t realize how important those photos would become. Now, as a full-time photographer, I find myself carrying the same torch, giving other families the kind of memories I was lucky to grow up with.
That’s why family graduation photos matter so much. They tell a story only you can tell—and sometimes, the people who know you best capture it best.
Why DIY Graduation Photos Are Booming in 2025
Emotion Over Perfection — It’s not about flawless lighting or sharp edits. It’s about capturing a hug, a proud tear, or a shared laugh.
Families Flying & Driving In — Many families travel from New York, Texas, Illinois, Mexico, Florida, and across California to celebrate their grads. DIY photos help include everyone in the experience.
Tight Budgets — With rising costs, DIY is a smart way to save money without missing the moment.
Connection First — Letting a parent, sibling, or partner take your photo adds a layer of intimacy no professional can replicate.
Top Graduation Photo Locations by University in Southern California
Here's a location guide with tips for families shooting DIY or booking our Milestone Graduation Package:
LOS ANGELES AREA
UCLA (Link): Royce Hall, Janss Steps, and Sculpture Garden offer iconic backdrops. Arrive early to avoid crowds.
USC (Link): Alumni Park and Doheny Library have beautiful columns and arches for a timeless look.
Cal State LA (Link): The campus fountain and hilltop views make for open, clean family-friendly shots.
ORANGE COUNTY
Chapman University (Link): Known for its charming brick buildings and beautiful landscaping. Historic Memorial Hall is perfect for wide shots.
UC Irvine (Link): Aldrich Park has lush green backgrounds, while the Student Center has modern architectural lines.
Cal State Fullerton (Link): The Titan Walk and campus sculpture garden are popular for groups.
INLAND EMPIRE
UC Riverside (Link): Shoot in the Botanic Gardens or in front of the Bell Tower.
Cal State San Bernardino (Link): Great natural light near the library lawn and university sign.
Mt. San Jacinto College (Link): Temecula Valley Campus has a clean modern look. Perfect for grads wanting simplicity.
TEMECULA & SURROUNDING
Old Town Temecula (Link) — Rustic backdrops, wooden walkways, and charm.
Temecula Wine Country (Link) — Rolling hills, golden hour magic.
Lake Skinner — Ideal for candid family group shots near the water.
SAN DIEGO
UC San Diego (Link) — Geisel Library for bold lines. Scripps Pier for ocean backdrops.
San Diego State University (Link) — Hepner Hall is iconic for arches and Spanish-style architecture.
Tips for DIY Family Graduation Photos
Golden Hour = Magic — Shoot an hour before sunset for warm, flattering light.
Tripods & Timers — Get everyone in the frame without rushing.
Detail Shots — Close-ups of hands holding diplomas, caps, shoes, or hugs can be powerful.
Use What You Have — iPhones, entry-level DSLRs, even Polaroids can do the job.
Capture the Story — Don’t just pose. Photograph the in-betweens: adjusting gowns, laughing, wiping tears.
When to Bring in a Photographer (That’s Where We Come In)
While DIY is powerful, some moments deserve a professional eye—especially if you want everyone in the frame, or you're short on time and energy.
🎓 Milestone Graduation Package
1-Hour Photoshoot
30 Edited Images
Two outfit changes (cap and gown + one personal look)
One meaningful location in Riverside or San Bernardino County (no travel fee)
Sessions available in San Diego, Orange, or Los Angeles County (additional travel fee applies)
Ideal for Family, Friends, Pets, and Props
Available for Last-Minute Bookings!
Whether you're celebrating in Temecula, San Bernardino, Orange County, Los Angeles, or San Diego—we travel to you. Let us take care of lighting, posing, scouting, and editing so you can focus on celebrating.
Final Thoughts
DIY family graduation photos are powerful because they come from the heart. Whether your dad’s behind the camera, or your cousin is balancing an iPhone on a rock, what matters is the connection captured.
But if you want to turn that moment into something print-worthy, timeless, and stress-free—we’re here.
Book your Milestone Graduation Package today. Let’s capture the hugs, the joy, and the pride—together.
Elegant Prom & Senior Photography at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines | San Diego, Del Mar, Carlsbad Portrait Sessions
If you're searching for the perfect location to capture unforgettable prom, senior, or graduation portraits in Southern California, look no further than the breathtaking Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines. Nestled between San Diego, Del Mar, La Jolla, Rancho Santa Fe, and Carlsbad, this elegant venue offers stunning coastal views, beautiful gardens, and timeless architecture — a dream backdrop for celebrating major milestones. In this blog, we share our recent experience photographing a pre-prom session, complete with scouting tips, parking advice, fun prop ideas like sparkling cider for celebration shots, and valuable lessons learned along the way. Whether you're preparing for prom night, graduating high school, or planning a senior portrait session, discover how to make the most of your photography session at one of San Diego’s most scenic venues.
We recently had the pleasure of photographing a very special pre-prom session for a client whose daughter was attending her prom — and the setting couldn't have been more breathtaking: the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines.
Located near San Diego, Del Mar, Carlsbad, and Rancho Santa Fe, Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines offers one of the most stunning backdrops for prom photos, senior portraits, and graduation photography. Set against the lush greens of the Torrey Pines Golf Course and the sparkling Pacific Ocean, this venue feels like it was made for capturing elegant, timeless moments.
Whether you're celebrating senior year milestones, graduating, or heading to prom, this location checks every box for stunning, magazine-worthy portraits.
Best Photo Locations at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines
1. Parterre Garden & Walkway
This beautifully landscaped walkway offers expansive views of the golf course and ocean. It's perfect for formal portraits, best friend group shots, and candid laughs.
2. Ballroom Terrace
An elegant elevated terrace overlooking the Pacific. Perfect for full-length gown shots, suit portraits, and golden hour glows.
3. Lobby Staircase & Upper Balcony
Inside, the dramatic staircase and floor-to-ceiling windows created elegant editorial-style shots — ideal for those looking for a more classic, sophisticated feel.
4. Pool Deck & Lounge Area
Palm trees, open skies, and a light, breezy vibe — this spot was perfect for casual, fun shots with lots of movement and laughter.
5. Torreyana Patio & Fire Pit
As the sun set, the patio’s cozy fire pits created an intimate, almost cinematic look for the final portraits.
Helpful Tip: Parking at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines
There is paid parking at the Hilton, but if you dine at the hotel's Torreyana Grille restaurant, they will validate your parking for up to two hours.
Since we arrived a few hours early to scout the best locations, grabbing a meal was a perfect way to save on parking and get familiar with the grounds.
A Valuable Lesson Learned: Always Follow Up
This session taught us a business lesson we’re truly grateful for.
About a week before prom, the client messaged to ask if we were available. We said yes and sent our booking link. Their response was, “Okay, sounds good," which we mistakenly interpreted as "we'll get back to you."
We didn’t follow up — and thankfully, the client reached out the day before prom to confirm and book us. It all worked out beautifully, but we learned the value of clear communication and following through immediately.
Now, we always confirm next steps clearly so there’s no confusion before important events!
Prom & Senior Photography Tips for Clients and Photographers
Tips for Clients:
1. Schedule Enough Time
Plan for at least 45 minutes to an hour to capture a good variety of poses, close-ups, full-lengths, and group shots.
2. Prioritize Golden Hour Light
Aim to shoot 1–2 hours before sunset for the softest, most flattering light.
3. Focus on the Details
Include shots of corsages, boutonnieres, heels, sneakers, jewelry, cap and gown (if a graduation tie-in), and those perfect finishing touches.
4. Celebrate the Journey
If you're graduating or moving into a new chapter, bring your cap and gown, school banners, or a sign for "Senior 2025" to add extra meaning.
5. Group and Solo Variety
Plan for solo shots, best friend pictures, date photos, and full group portraits to cover every story of the night.
Tips for Photographers:
1. Capture the Limo or Arrival Moment
Be ready for shots of the client stepping out of their limo or car — it’s a classic, high-energy prom memory.
2. Bring Props Like Martinelli’s Sparkling Cider
Having a bottle ready to "pop" makes for fun, natural celebration shots (and it's alcohol-free and family-friendly!).
3. Scout the Venue Early
Scout the best light, shade, and private spots in advance to avoid rushing on the day of the shoot.
4. Suggest Fun, Movement-Based Prompts
Simple prompts like "twirl your dress," "pretend you just got crowned prom king/queen," or "walk toward me laughing" keep the session energetic.
5. Encourage Parent Moments
Always invite parents in for a few quick shots — it means so much to them and rounds out the full story of the day.
6. Have a Backup Plan for Weather
Always check weather ahead of time and have a couple of covered spots at the hotel ready in case the weather turns cloudy or rainy.
Final Thoughts
Photographing our client’s daughter at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines was truly a highlight for us. Between the breathtaking scenery, the excitement of prom, and the celebration of a major life milestone, every part of the session felt magical.
Plus, learning the importance of clear communication and adding festive elements like popping Martinelli’s cider made it even more unforgettable.
Whether you're celebrating prom, senior year, graduation, or any special milestone, Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines — conveniently located near San Diego, Del Mar, La Jolla, Carlsbad, and Rancho Santa Fe — is the perfect setting for elegant, timeless portraits you’ll treasure forever.
We would be honored to help you capture your next milestone moment — reach out to book your prom, senior, or graduation photography session today!
How to Pose for Graduation Photos (Even If You’re Camera Shy)
Posing for graduation photos doesn’t have to feel awkward—even if you’re camera shy. In this blog, we share expert tips and pose ideas designed to help high school seniors and college graduates feel confident and look natural in every shot. Whether you’re planning your graduation photography session at UC Riverside, Cal Baptist, SDSU, Chapman University, Mount Rubidoux, Sunset Cliffs, or a local high school like King High, Redlands High, or Santa Monica High, this guide offers practical strategies for capturing stunning cap-and-gown portraits across Southern California. Learn how to pose with ease, use natural movement, and incorporate props like your diploma or cap toss for meaningful images. Plus, see how our Milestone Graduation Package makes the entire process stress-free—complete with posing guidance, beautiful lighting, and personalized locations in Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Orange County, and Los Angeles.
Tips, Confidence Boosters, and Posing Ideas for Graduation Photography in Southern California
Let’s be honest—not everyone feels natural in front of the camera. Maybe you’re the kind of person who blinks in every group shot or stiffens up when someone points a lens your way. But graduation is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, and your senior portraits should reflect your personality, confidence, and sense of accomplishment—even if posing doesn’t come naturally.
As full-time photographers specializing in graduation photography across Riverside, San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino, we work with grads from every background—some who love being photographed, and others who need a little extra encouragement.
If you’re feeling nervous about your shoot, this guide is for you. We’re sharing exactly how to pose for graduation photos (even if you're camera shy), plus expert tips for natural movement, facial expressions, and how to feel confident in every frame.
Why Posing Matters in Graduation Photography
Graduation portraits do more than show you in a cap and gown—they document a major life milestone. The right poses help tell your story visually. Whether it’s a proud power pose, a casual candid moment, or a joyful jump mid-champagne spray, each frame should feel like you.
But don’t worry—you don’t have to be a model to look amazing in your senior session. With the right guidance and photographer, posing becomes less about perfection and more about connection and emotion.
Confidence-Boosting Tips Before Your Session
1. Choose a Comfortable Outfit (and Bring a Backup)
Confidence starts with comfort. Choose clothing that fits well and makes you feel like your best self—whether that’s a dress, suit, jeans, or something more expressive. Bring your cap and gown, and consider a second look that reflects your style or future path (like a college sweatshirt, work uniform, or cultural attire).
2. Practice Facial Expressions in the Mirror
Yes, seriously. Practice your smile. Try a soft grin, a confident smirk, and a natural laugh. This helps you become more aware of how your face feels when it’s relaxed—and that awareness will help you feel more in control on shoot day.
3. Trust the Process
We guide every pose from head to toe. We’ll coach you through angles, hand placement, posture, and movement so you never feel awkward or stuck.
Graduation Poses for Camera-Shy Seniors
1. The “Walking Toward the Camera” Shot
A go-to pose that looks great on everyone. Walking gives your body natural motion and allows for relaxed expressions.
How to do it:
Look slightly off-camera, swing your arms lightly, and take slow steps. We’ll capture mid-motion shots that feel effortless and authentic.
2. The “Hold the Cap and Look Ahead” Pose
This symbolic pose shows you looking toward the future. It feels meaningful but doesn’t require any dramatic expressions.
How to do it:
Hold your cap in one hand at your side. Look straight ahead with a soft smile—or glance down for a thoughtful variation.
3. Leaning or Sitting Poses
Ideal for those who feel stiff when standing. Using a bench, ledge, or wall to lean or sit creates more grounded, relaxed portraits.
How to do it:
Cross one leg over the other, lean back on your hands, or rest your elbow on a knee. These poses create natural lines and soften tension.
4. Candid Laughing or Over-the-Shoulder Look
Perfect for camera shy grads because it feels less posed. These shots capture real emotion and warmth.
How to do it:
We’ll prompt you with a funny question or story and snap when you laugh or smile naturally. For over-the-shoulder, just turn your body slightly away and glance back—easy and flattering.
5. The “Cap Toss” or “Champagne Spray”
Full of energy and movement, these shots are all about joy and celebration—not about getting the pose just right.
How to do it:
Throw your cap, pop your bottle, and enjoy the moment. These images shine with emotion, not polish.
Location-Specific Pose Ideas in Southern California
Riverside
At UC Riverside, try walking confidently in front of the Bell Tower or sitting on the campus steps holding your diploma.
In Downtown Riverside, lean against the courthouse columns for a power pose or sit on the steps in formalwear.
San Bernardino
Prospect Park’s citrus groves are great for seated poses on vintage crates or standing between rows.
Mount Rubidoux offers dramatic silhouettes at sunset—perfect for cap tosses and celebration poses.
San Diego
Sunset Cliffs? That’s your spot for slow walks along the edge and soft smiles framed by the ocean.
Balboa Park is perfect for over-the-shoulder looks through archways or leaning on railings for soft, elegant portraits.
Orange County
Laguna Beach backdrops allow for barefoot walking shots in the sand or sitting on the rocks with a champagne pop.
Yorba Regional Park is great for sitting on bridges or walking shaded paths lined with trees.
Los Angeles
At Griffith Park or near the Observatory, sit with your cap and look out toward the skyline.
Santa Monica Pier? Think bright, fun, and candid—perfect for casual shots and sunset silhouettes.
Final Tip: Relax, Move, and Breathe
You don’t have to “pose perfectly”—you just have to show up as yourself. The best graduation photos are the ones that reflect your real personality, not a frozen version of you trying to look a certain way. We'll direct you gently throughout, so your session feels more like hanging out and less like a photoshoot.
Bring It All Together with Our Milestone Graduation Package
Our Milestone Graduation Package is designed with comfort, creativity, and confidence in mind. We work one-on-one with grads who want beautiful, meaningful photos—even if they’re not sure how to pose or where to begin.
Here’s what’s included:
60 minutes of photography in Riverside or San Bernardino County (no travel fee)
Travel available to San Diego, Orange County, and Los Angeles (travel fee applies)
Two outfits (cap and gown + one personal style)
30+ high-resolution, professionally edited images
Delivered on a keepsake USB + online gallery preview
Full posing guidance throughout
Optional cap toss, champagne spray, or prop moment
Ready to Feel Confident in Front of the Camera?
You deserve graduation photos that make you feel proud and empowered—whether you’re naturally camera-ready or need a little coaching. With expert posing help, relaxed direction, and the perfect golden light, we’ll make sure your session is as fun and unforgettable as your senior year.
Book your Milestone Graduation Package today and let’s capture the real you—beautiful, bold, and 100% ready for what’s next.
Graduation Photos at Sunset: Why Golden Hour Is a Must
Golden hour is the most magical time of day for graduation photography—and if you’re a high school or college senior in Southern California, you don’t want to miss the chance to capture your milestone in this stunning light. In this blog, we share why golden hour is a must for senior portraits and cap-and-gown photo sessions, and we highlight the best golden hour locations in Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, Orange County, and Los Angeles. Whether you’re graduating from UC Riverside, Cal Baptist, La Sierra University, SDSU, UC San Diego, Cal State Fullerton, Chapman University, Cal Poly Pomona, or high schools like King High, Poly High, Vista Murrieta, Redlands High, or Santa Monica High—this guide is packed with tips, location addresses, and creative inspiration. Learn how to plan your session for perfect lighting, how to pose in backlight, and how our Milestone Graduation Package ties it all together with personalized photography that celebrates your achievement in unforgettable ways.
Best Southern California Locations, Tips, and How to Plan Your Shoot
There’s a reason why photographers chase the golden hour—it’s that magical time just after sunrise or just before sunset when the light turns soft, warm, and cinematic. For graduation photography, golden hour is more than just pretty lighting—it’s transformative. It creates skin tones that glow, highlights your cap and gown in the best way possible, and adds emotion and depth to every image.
If you’re planning your senior portraits in Southern California, scheduling your session during golden hour can elevate your graduation photos from simple to stunning. In this guide, we’re breaking down why golden hour is a must, sharing the best golden hour photo locations in Riverside, San Diego, Orange County, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino County, and giving you practical tips to make the most of your session.
Why Golden Hour Is Perfect for Graduation Photography
1. Flattering, Natural Light
During golden hour, the sun is lower in the sky, casting a soft, warm glow that reduces harsh shadows and makes skin look radiant. It's especially ideal for outdoor graduation sessions where you're shooting in cap and gown without the need for extra lighting gear.
2. Emotion and Atmosphere
Golden hour creates a dreamy, cinematic quality that gives your photos emotion. Whether you're holding your diploma with pride, laughing during a champagne pop, or walking toward the future, this light adds a storytelling element to every image.
3. More Creative Freedom
The softer light allows us to shoot in more directions, use the sun as backlight for silhouettes or rim lighting, and play with flare, reflections, and movement—all of which look incredible in senior portraits.
Best Golden Hour Locations for Graduation Photography in SoCal
Whether you're a high school senior or a college graduate, these Southern California locations are perfect for golden hour graduation photos:
Riverside County
Mount Rubidoux
Address: 4706 Mt Rubidoux Dr, Riverside, CA 92501
Great for: Wide scenic views, rim light portraits, cap tosses at the summit
Tip: Hike up 45 minutes before sunset to reach the cross in time for perfect lighting.
Fairmount Park
Address: 2601 Fairmount Blvd, Riverside, CA 92501
Great for: Lakeside reflections, bridges, nature-style senior portraits
Tip: The west side of Lake Evans is perfect for direct sunset backdrops.
San Bernardino County
Prospect Park – Redlands
Address: 1352 Prospect Dr, Redlands, CA 92373
Great for: Romantic sunset tones through orange groves and trees
Tip: Golden hour here hits the walkways and historic architecture beautifully.
Etiwanda Preserve
Address: 4890 Etiwanda Ave, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739
Great for: Open fields, rustic tones, dramatic backlit portraits
Tip: Dress in soft colors to complement the golden hills and sky.
San Diego County
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
Address: 1253 Sunset Cliffs Blvd, San Diego, CA 92107
Great for: Oceanfront backdrops, dramatic cliffside silhouettes
Tip: Bring a second outfit—casual photos on the cliffs followed by cap-and-gown shots during the final minutes of sunset.
Balboa Park
Address: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
Great for: Architecture, warm tones, gardens, and classic senior vibes
Tip: Shoot near the Prado or Alcazar Garden for clean light filtering through arches and trees.
Orange County
Laguna Beach – Crescent Bay Point Park
Address: 300 Crescent Bay Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Great for: Coastal golden light, palm trees, ocean views
Tip: Weekdays are less crowded—aim for 45 minutes before sunset to beat the shadows.
Yorba Regional Park
Address: 7600 E La Palma Ave, Anaheim, CA 92807
Great for: Tree-lined trails, bridges, and golden reflection in the lake
Tip: Wear neutral tones to let the golden light and greenery shine.
Los Angeles County
Griffith Park – Amir’s Garden
Address: 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Great for: Lush foliage, city views, and a soft gradient sunset sky
Tip: Golden hour light filters perfectly through trees for a soft, airy look.
Santa Monica Pier + Beach
Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Great for: Iconic Southern California beach shots with warm sunset tones
Tip: Start at the pier and move to the beach as the sun dips—perfect timing for a champagne pop or cap toss.
Tips for Planning Your Golden Hour Graduation Photoshoot
Know the Sunset Time: Use apps like Sun Surveyor or Golden Hour One to time your session. We typically start 60–75 minutes before sunset.
Dress the Part: Light or earth-toned outfits pair beautifully with golden hues. Cap and gown look amazing in backlight if paired with soft fabrics underneath.
Bring Props: Champagne, balloons, or custom signs look especially magical in this light—add movement or sparkle for extra impact.
Arrive Early: Light changes quickly. Being ready and in position before peak golden hour ensures we capture every moment.
Hire a Photographer Who Understands the Light: Not all photographers are the same when it comes to natural light. Golden hour is a skillset, not just a time slot.
The Milestone Graduation Package: Perfect for Golden Hour
If you want a session that takes full advantage of golden hour’s beauty, our Milestone Graduation Package is the ideal fit.
What’s included:
A 60 minute professional session (perfect for golden hour timing)
One meaningful location in Riverside or San Bernardino County (no travel fee)
Travel options available for San Diego, Orange County, and Los Angeles
Two outfit changes (cap and gown + personal style)
30+ professionally edited high-res images on a USB drive
Posing guidance and creative support throughout
Optional champagne spray, cap toss, or confetti moment
Whether you’re standing on a sun-soaked hilltop, framed by cliffs above the ocean, or posing in front of your school’s bell tower as the sun sets behind you—this is the session that marks your journey with impact.
Ready to Make Golden Hour Yours?
Golden hour is more than just a pretty moment—it’s your light, your story, your celebration. Let’s plan your Riverside, San Diego, OC, LA, or San Bernardino graduation shoot around the sun and create a session that feels as powerful as your achievement.
Book The Milestone Graduation Package today and let us help you shine—literally.